April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to reflect on an issue that affects each and every one of us in some way, whether as an employer, friend, family member, significant other or victim. Sexual Assault, the "silent crime," is the least reported of all crimes. In fact, fewer than twenty percent of rapes and attempted rapes are ever reported. Some victims are silent because they feel ashamed, or fear they will be judged, they may blame themselves. Some are simply too hurt or too angry to speak out.

Sexual assault awareness means increasing public awareness of this "silent" crime. It means asking ourselves and our communities how we can work together to eliminate sexual violence and respond to survivors in a way that enables them to heal and regain control of their lives. Approximately 683,000 women and 93,000 men in this country are forcibly raped each year. And the numbers are rising. Sexual assault awareness means recognizing that rape/sexual abuse is real, and lives in our own backyards.  We will continue our work to increase awareness, work collaboratively with the legal & medical systems in advocating for a victim centered approach as well as holding the offenders accountable.  However, most importantly we will commit our time, passion, & resources to survivors of this horrific crime that affects the mind body and soul of it’s victims.  We need to raise our voices high and insure that as a community we will be SILENT NO MORE!  Please help us in our efforts, volunteer your time, talk about the issue, invite us to your workplace, school or place of worship to inform others about how and what you can do to help us make a difference.