About us
A safe place for survivors. A voice for change.
Our Mission Matters
Christina’s Courage is dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence through trauma-informed advocacy, forensic services, and community education. As part of FCASV, a statewide organization committed to improving responses to survivors and preventing sexual violence, we work to empower professionals and communities with the tools they need to create safer, more supportive environments.
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Our Vision
We envision a world free of sexual violence in which individuals together assure us that all human beings are treated with dignity and respect for their physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual integrity.
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Christina's Story
A little girl. A powerful voice. A movement born from courage.
Christina was only eight years old when the abuse began. For years, she endured something no child should ever have to face—until, at just 12, she bravely found the strength to speak up.
Christina was born HIV positive and lost her mother as a toddler. She spent her early years in a home filled with instability, living with a father whose drug use turned their house into a revolving door of strangers and danger. The disability checks meant to cover Christina’s critical medical care were instead used to fund his addiction. Her physical and emotional health began to deteriorate.
By the time she was 12 years old, Christina’s mounting absences from school and visible signs of neglect raised alarm. Failing dental and physical health—and a quiet strength—led her to open up to a school guidance counselor. For the first time, she spoke about the years of neglect she had endured… and the sexual abuse she had suffered at the hands of a drug dealer her father had allowed to live in the home since she was eight.
That conversation changed everything.
It was then that Christina met Kathy Peters, the former Director of the Victim Assistance Program with the State Attorney’s Office. Together, they began the long and painful process of healing—and seeking justice.
At that time, Monroe County had no dedicated sexual assault center. Christina and Kathy spent eight grueling hours at the hospital undergoing forensic exams and interviews. They faced court hearings, depositions, and the emotional weight of preparing for trial. And yet, Christina remained brave. Determined. Resilient.
When it came time to testify, she did so with unwavering strength—sharing her story and her victim impact statement in court. Her voice helped convict her perpetrator. But more importantly, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. Christina went on to live with her loving aunt and uncle, finally surrounded by the safety and care she deserved.
In 2002, during National Victims’ Rights Week, Christina created a powerful drawing that captured her journey through abuse and healing. It was a visual reminder of what child survivors endure—and what they can overcome with the right support.
Today, Christina is a thriving businesswoman and national speaker, working with the organization Hope’s Voice to educate and inspire young people about HIV/AIDS prevention and resilience after trauma. She continues to shine a light for others, turning pain into purpose.
Christina’s Courage—the center that now bears her name—was founded to honor her journey. Her story represents why advocacy, forensic care, therapy, and education matter so deeply. She is living proof of what can happen when a survivor is met with compassion, safety, and someone who truly listens.
Every survivor deserves that chance. Christina’s legacy ensures they will.
What We Believe
Sexual assault is never the survivor’s fault.
Healing looks different for everyone—and that’s okay.
Every survivor deserves to be believed, supported, and safe.
Our role is to provide care, not judgment.
Who we serve
Christina’s Courage welcomes all survivors ages 5 and up, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ability, immigration status, or legal circumstance. Our services are free, confidential, and available in-person or virtually. We also offer interpretation support when needed.
Meet Our Team
We are advocates, clinicians, educators, and survivors—united by a shared commitment to healing and justice.
Anne joined Christina’s Courage and FCASV in 2022 as a therapist. Prior to earning her Masters in Counseling, she taught for five years in an elementary school setting in Alabama, where she is originally from. At the time of joining FCASV, Anne had two years experience in a therapeutic role with non-profit agencies in Monroe County, Florida. Anne focuses on humanistic, person-centered therapeutic interventions based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time on the water and outdoor activities with her Australian Shepard, Reese.
Sharleen Sullivan is the Director of Legal Services and General Counsel for FCASV. She is a former prosecutor with over 11 years of experience in criminal law. During her tenure as an assistant state attorney, she handled all career criminal cases, as well as most sexual assault cases involving both children and adults.
Jenn graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biological and Chemical Sciences from Wells College in 2002, followed by a second Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rochester in 2003. She received her Master’s in Nursing - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in 2006. Jenn’s professional career includes 8 years as a certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE-A) and Director of Nursing at the Certified Rape Crisis Center in Hillsborough County, Florida; 17 years as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) / certified pediatric nurse practitioner working in academia and in a pediatric gastroenterology office; and four years as a registered nurse in several Neonatal Intensive Care units (NICU) in New York and Florida.
Our Partners & Supporters
We are proud to work alongside organizations who share our vision for a safer world
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Whether you’re a survivor, a family member, or a supporter—you belong here. Together, we can create change.