SOAR, formerly Victims Refuse Silence, was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2015. But its roots began long before then - in the courage, resilience, and transformation of our founder, Virginia Giuffre.

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Virginia’s journey from victim to survivor, and then from survivor to advocate, became the foundation of SOAR’s mission. Known around the world as one of the most prominent survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, Virginia used her voice to expose abuse, demand accountability, and stand with those who had been silenced. But Epstein was not her first abuser. By the time she met him at age 16, Virginia had already survived sexual trafficking by another man. It would take more than two years before she escaped Epstein’s abuse and began rebuilding her life.

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After becoming a mother, Virginia made a promise: she would reclaim her story so that future generations would not have to endure what she had. She testified against her abusers, spoke publicly with extraordinary candor, engaged with the media, and advocated tirelessly for anti-trafficking reforms. Her bravery inspired survivors across the globe to come forward, seek support, and believe that healing and justice were possible.

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In April 2025, Virginia’s passing left an immeasurable loss for her family, the survivor community, and all those who had been moved by her strength. But her mission did not end with her death. Today, Virginia’s family carries forward her mantle through SOAR, Speak Out, Act, Reclaim, honoring her legacy by continuing the work she began.

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We remain committed to standing with survivors everywhere, amplifying their voices, fighting exploitation and abuse, and building a world where no survivor is forced into silence. Virginia taught us that one voice can spark a movement. SOAR exists to ensure that movement continues.