April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

With April being Sexual Assault Awareness month, let's talk about our amazing SARA volunteers.

What is a SARA?

SARA stands for sexual assault response advocate. At Lafayette House, our SARAs are trained volunteers from the community and within our staff. Sexual Assault Response Advocates do just as their name states, they respond to cases of sexual assault to advocate and provide comfort for the victim. SARA’s respond to local emergency rooms to ensure survivors are educated on their rights and options, and feel empowered to make the decisions they feel are right for them.

SARAs stand by the side of the survivor and can be as involved as the survivor wants. Each time a SARA responds is different. Some survivors may simply want the SARA to be in the room. Some may need education on their options for reporting the assault or completing an examination. Some just need someone to talk to or a hand to hold. SARAs are NOT there to pressure a survivor into making a decision.

Why are SARAs important?

Sexual Assault Response Advocates are often the only people able to support the survivor throughout this traumatic experience. SARAs ensure the victim’s voice is heard, their decisions are enforced, and they are not alone. Sexual Assault Response Advocates refer survivors to Lafayette House for resources that can aid in the healing process of the trauma caused by the assault and any other needs they may have.

Go-Bags

When a survivor reports sexual assault, their clothes are often taken for evidence. Lafayette House provides go-bags with a set of clothing, sandals, and basic hygiene items to survivors. This go-bag can provide survivors with a small amount of dignity.

How do I become a SARA?

To become a Sexual Response Assault Advocate, complete a Volunteer Application Form at https://lafayettehouse.org/volunteer-interest. A staff member will reach outwith more information and answer any questions you may have!

Contact Information:

Crisis Line: 1 (800) 416-1772

Main Office: 1 (417) 782-1772

Main Office Address: 1809 S Connor Ave. Joplin, Missouri 64804

Neosho Office: 417-451-6106

Neosho Office: 118 W. Spring St., Neosho, MO, 64850

Website:https://lafayettehouse.org/

You are not alone.Lafayette House is here 24/7 with confidential support and resources. Healing is possible, and it starts with reaching out.