Follow Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse (AVTP) down the rabbit hole for an afternoon of traditional British tea.

The executive director of AVTP, Christine Wall, originates from England but moved to Pullman when her husband transferred to WSU.

After many years of being with AVTP, Wall’s experience with afternoon teas inspired a fundraiser.

“All of the best conversations happen over tea,” Wall said. “Sexual assault is a difficult topic…it doesn’t have to be as difficult as we think it is.”

By serving tea and theming the event, AVTP hopes to leave attendees with more information on alternatives to violence, Wall said. The tea is meant to lighten the mood and take some of the pressure off of the topic of violence.

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is the third annual champagne tea fundraiser held by AVTP, according to Moscow Chamber of Commerce.

Each year a different theme for the tea is chosen and this year it is Alice and Wonderland.

As the title suggests, the occasion is shaped around Wonderland and the characters therein. The theme will be incorporated into the costumes of the volunteers and the room’s décor, said the assistant director of AVTP, Emilie McLarnan.

“This is a chance to be fun and celebrate spring while creating a positive connection with the community,” McLarnan said. “We want them to know they can get the help that they need (through AVTP).”

The tea party offers a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction and a photo booth, McLarnan said. It is a chance for attendees to win prizes and enjoy themselves all while supporting a good cause in the Palouse.

Alongside the decorations and activities, there will be informational posters and a slideshow about AVTP. Although this is a fun event, AVTP is an organization meant to help sexual assault victims of demostic violence.

All services offered by AVTP are free and confidential regardless of situation, according to the AVTP website. AVTP also educates on sexual assault and family violence prevention.

There is a 24-hour emergency hotline, access to a shelter and support groups for anyone who needs them.

“We want people to come together over something as simple as a cup of tea to say … we support AVTP,” Wall said.

AVTP’s Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Fundraiser will be 5-6:30 p.m. tomorrow at the Brelsford Visitor’s Center in Pullman. Tickets are $25 each or $200 for a table of eight. Reserve tickets in advance at avtp.org.