Jessica Hays serves as the President and CEO of Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC), an organization dedicated to providing support and empowerment to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Sarasota and DeSoto counties.

Jessica's journey with SPARCC began through her involvement with the Junior League, where she developed a passion for community service and leadership. Over the course of 17 years, Hays has led SPARCC in offering a comprehensive range of services, including crisis intervention, therapy, legal assistance, and prevention programs, all aimed at addressing the root causes of violence and creating a safer community.

In addition to providing direct services to survivors, SPARCC plays a vital role in community education and advocacy to address the systemic issues surrounding domestic and sexual violence. Through partnerships with law enforcement and other community organizations, SPARCC works to ensure that responses to violence are effective and informed. The organization also prioritizes prevention efforts, working with youth and young adults to promote healthy relationships, boundaries, and respect, with the aim of creating a future free from violence. Through these multifaceted approaches, SPARCC not only supports survivors but also works towards creating lasting social change in the community.