Support sexual assault victims

The month of April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year’s theme, “Engaging New Voices,” builds on the idea that we are stronger together, and that new partners and community members are needed to expand sexual assault prevention efforts. Liberty Resources Help Restore Hope Center – (formerly known as the Victims of Violence Program) is proud to be partnering with many community organizations and individuals this month to give voice to those impacted by violence, see www.HelpRestoreHopeCenter.org/news for the full list of April events!

We can all help the next generation foster attitudes that promote healthy relationships, equality, and respect. According to National Sexual Violence Resource Center statistics, nearly one in five women and one in 71 men are victims of sexual assault at some point in their lives. There is hope! Survivors, like Melissa King, a Volunteer Ambassador, play an important role in providing hope for other survivors. Melissa was impacted by sexual violence and experienced trauma that caused her much pain and suffering. Melissa has courageously begun sharing a message of hope to other survivors while advocating for those hurting and in pain. “I have found that by sharing my experience it enables me to help advocate for others in need,” Melissa shares. Sharing and advocating for others can be a part of a healing process.

We all have a role to play in preventing sexual violence in our community. Our actions, big and small, have a ripple effect on those we teach, guide, and influence. From modeling healthy behavior to addressing inappropriate conduct, everyone can make a difference. Changing beliefs which contribute to sexual violence starts with be- lieving survivors of sexual violence when they share their stories. You can help by calling out victim-blaming comments or rape jokes if you see them online. Remind those around you that sexual assault is never the survivor’s fault. Seemingly small actions like this make a critical impact.

Get engaged this April during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Join us in embracing your role in ending sexual assault. Learn more about how you can use your voice for change and awareness month activities at www.HelpRestoreHopeCenter.org.

— Sara Haag, divisional director and Joanne Smith, clinical program supervisor,

Liberty Resources Inc.