The Sexual Assault Center’s Mad Hatter Raises Record-Breaking Funds

On a perfect September evening, Sexual Assault Center supporters donned their best hats for the organization’s annual Mad Hatter. This year’s Flora and Fauna theme inspired many elaborate creations, like a headpiece with a golden snake hidden among gold leaves and a hat covered with bouquets of blue flora. While the evening offered plenty of whimsy, it supported a serious mission: working to end sexual violence through counseling, education and advocacy and providing healing for children, adults and families affected by sexual assault.

At the VIP reception, co-chairs Eliot Bloom, Sam Creamer and Mark Hemberger thanked guests for their generosity. Following a Champagne toast, actor and singer Brian Charles Rooney performed hits like Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time.” The sublime weather kept many guests in the open-air courtyard, while others headed into the Conrad Nashville’s ballroom foyer to browse and bid on an extensive array of silent auction items.

Interactive experiences, like a documentary film and a trauma-informed art installation, brought SAC’s mission to life. Others, like a hat-making station, invited guests to have fun crafting their own headpieces. After the reception, guests enjoyed an Italian-themed buffet before taking their seats for the evening’s program.

Rachel Freeman, SAC CEO, recognized sponsors, dignitaries and supporters before acknowledging that she wishes organizations like hers didn’t have to exist. Until the culture changes and sexual violence ends, she said, SAC will continue helping survivors. “We are here to walk alongside someone on their healing journey and help them navigate the healing process, so they don’t have to do it alone,” Rachel said.

The mood shifted back to Mad Hatter’s signature playfulness with the much-anticipated hat contest. Judges selected winners in three categories before guests turned their attention to a spirited live auction and another round of fundraising.

By the end of the night, guests had propelled SAC well beyond its fundraising goal, setting a new record for Mad Hatter. The milestone offered more than a reason to celebrate — it gave the organization additional resources to ensure survivors across Middle Tennessee don’t have to navigate healing alone.