April: Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month- a time to draw attention to the prevalence of sexual assault and educate individuals and communities about how to prevent it.

One in four girls and one in twenty boys is sexually abused by the age of 17.

The majority of sexual assaults happen at or near the victim's home, often by someone they know or trust. On average, less than 1% of perpetrators are ever convicted, while their victims are left with long-term emotional and physical consequences. Many of the women that we serve are victims of sexual assault and live everyday with the long-lasting effects of others taking advantage of their bodies. It is our desire to see women rise up from these dehumanizing situations and live in community that values, loves and accepts them. Sexual assault is a horrific problem, but we each have the power to change that.

We can make a difference by building inclusive, safe and respectful communities that thrive online and offline.

Modeling healthy behavior and communication in our relationships, providing support to victims and increasing awareness are all ways for us to take a stand against sexual assault.