Several weeks ago, a 33-year-old female was sexually assaulted and beaten on Madison’s east side bike path. The local community has since rallied behind the victim, their latest endeavor being a fundraiser for the victim at the High Noon Saloon.

Rain or shine: Community rallies in support of sexual assault victim

“Cover Me,” a benefit for the assault survivor and WI Coalition Against Sexual Assault, combined girl-power music with raffle prizes donated by many local businesses.

Hundreds gathered Thursday, Oct. 1 for the event, which required merely a donation to attend. Organizers partnered with the Dane Country Rape Crisis Center to pull off the impressive fundraiser, which included donations from Karben4 Brewery, most local music venues, Community Pharmacy, Four Star Video and many others.

In addition to the raffles, local acts gathered to pay homage to their favorite groups and demonstrate support for the victim. The Deadbeat Club, Trap Saturn and Anna Vogelzang began the night with B-52’s and R&B.

Madison’s German Art Students followed with covers of fellow Sconnie-natives Garbage; their cover of “Only Happy When It Rains” in particular conveyed hometown camaraderie and the melancholic yet empowering atmosphere.

After Yeah Yeah Yeah’s covers by Seasaw, local rocker Meghan Rose finished out the night with Hole. The haunting vocals would bring the fundraiser to an emotional close; while no one could leave satisfied, the event was a successful demonstration of how a community can come together in face of a terrible crime.

For those who wish to donate to the victim, a GoFundMe has been established for her. As of Oct. 5, the account had raised more than $20,000.