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Past SAAM Events
Rape Crisis Centers in Florida 2012 SAAM Activities
- Lakeview Rape Crisis/Trauma Recovery Center with host the 5th anniversary "Run for Their Lives" 5k run/walk scheduled for Saturday, April 21, at 8 AM at Pensacola Beach. Visit www.runfortheirlives.kintera.org for more information.
- Ocala-Marion County Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Center
will be posting information about sexual assault awareness on
billboards in the Ocala area during the month of April. They are also
collaborating with other community members for their Victim's Awareness
Week during which they will be doing workshops on sexual assault
education.
- Victim Service Center of Central Florida has a number of exciting events. They include: Denim Day
- to bring awareness to sexual violence, the Victim Service Center will
be encouraging organizations to host a Denim Day in which participants
wear jeans to work or school (along with a teal ribbon) in order to
promote discussion of the misconceptions that surround sexual
assault. Denim Day is also a chance for participants to pledge money
towards a future free of sexual violence with a donation to the Victim
Service Center. Ride to Reach
- The Victim Service Center has partnered with the Avalon Park
Foundation to present the 1st annual Ride to Reach sexual assault
awareness event. A bicycling and walking event, Ride to Reach is based
on the story of Diana Oakley, VSC Speakers Bureau Chair, who was
kidnapped and assaulted while riding her bicycle when she was 17 years
old. The Clothesline Project
- The Victim Service Center will conduct a Clothesline Project on
Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at our Ride to Reach sexual assault awareness
event. We will have t-shirts available for participants to decorate in
honor of those affected by sexual violence. We will then display the
t-shirts during the event.
- Betty Griffin House is proud to present Denim Day on Wednesday, April 25, 2012
- a campaign aimed to raise awareness about the dynamics of sexual
violence a call to action for all people to come together for the health
and safety of everyone in our community. www.bettygriffinhouse.org
- Broward County Sexual Assault Treatment Center
will be raising awareness throughout the month of April by having a
survivor art display with informational brochures at the Broward County
Government Center. This art display includes jeans decorated by
survivors during the previous months as support of our Denim Day, which
is April 24, 2012. They ask that everyone in Broward County wear
jeans that day to raise awareness about sexual violence.
- Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center is hosting several exciting events. They include the Respect Your Date Contest
on March 30th presented at all Alachua County Public High Schools
wherein they will be tabling and have a prize give-away event to bring
awareness to sexual violence. They will be hosting Sexual Assault Awareness Day
on April 3rd at the Alachua County Health Department during which they
will be tabling event to bring awareness to sexual violence. They will
be issuing a Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclamation with County Commission on April 10th. On April 12th they will be hosting a Survivor's Art Exhibit and Reception.
The art will be on display for the month of April in Alachua County
Community Support Services lobby. On April 23rd they will be hosting Community Voices
with the Hippodrome Theater during which they will be tabling to bring
awareness to sexual violence. Finally, they will be hosting Denim Day on April 25th during which Alachua County employees will wear denim to raise awareness about sexual violence.
- Women's Center of Jacksonville has a host of innovative events planned. The Rape recovery Team will have a table at RAM
for the following dates – come and meet the advocates who are on-call
24/7 to serve and support victims of sexual violence: March 10, March
24, April 14, April 28. Friday and Saturday, April 6 and 7 at 7:30 P.M. – 9:30 P.M they will host Memory, Monologue, Rant and a Prayer
at the Theatre Jacksonville in San Marco. A community performance of
the play, authored by Eve Ensler, and benefiting the Women’s Center of
Jacksonville. This groundbreaking play features a collection of pieces
from “Until the Violence Stops,” which is an international effort to
bring awareness to the issue of violence against women and girls.
Tickets are $20.00 for general public; $15.00 for students and can be
purchased by calling 722-3000 or at the door the night of the show.
Thursday, April 12, 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M. they will host a Community Speak-Out Hemming Plaza.
The Women’s Center of Jacksonville’s Rape Recovery Team, concerned
citizens and numerous social service and victim-serving agencies will
meet at Hemming Plaza to speak out about the impact of sexual violence
on our community. Participants will include the Jacksonville Sheriff’s
Office, the State Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of
Florida, the City of Jacksonville, the Office of Mayor Alvin Brown,
Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Station Mayport. Join us in
taking a stand against sexual violence. On Wednesday, April 18, 6:00
P.M. they will host a Survivor Speak-Out and Open House
at Women’s Center of Jacksonville. The Women’s Center of
Jacksonville’s Rape Recovery Team host’s its Annual Survivor Speak-Out.
An evening filled with live music, spoken word, light refreshments, and
survivors speaking out against sexual violence. This is also an
opportunity to meet the advocates doing the very important and necessary
work of responding to and supporting victims of sexual violence at all
hours of the day or night. Tuesday, May 1, 5:30pm (Reception) 6:45pm
(Lecture and Q&A) they will host Trisha Meili, author of, I Am the Central Park Jogger: A Story of Hope and Possibility, at Theatre Jacksonville. Trisha, known to the world as The Central Park Jogger, is a survivor who is thriving.
She is the recipient of the Leadership Award for the National Center
for Victims of Crime, trainer for the Sexual Assault and Violence
Intervention Program (SAVI) at Mount Sinai Hospital, Television
Commentator/Lecturer and Motivator. For more information, contact Tina
Vaughn, Director of the Rape Recovery Team at 722-3000 x209 or email: tvaughn@womenscenterofjax.org
- Sexual Assault Victim Services (SAVS) is partnering with South Brevard Women's Center to present a Women's and Girls Safety
event complete with discussion and self defense instruction on Sunday,
April 15th from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Pelican Beach Pavillion in
Satellite Beach. SAVS will also be SAVS doing an awareness/training for
the Space Coast National Nurses in Business Association, Inc. on April
10th. Contact Teresa Andersen at SAVS for more information at (321)
617-7533.
- Quigley House has a series of events taking place over the month. They include: on 3/27 Proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).
2PM Administration Building 477 Houston St., GCS, FL 32043. The Clay
Board of County Commissioners in collaboration with Quigley House will
officially declare April as SAAM. On 4/1 Quigley House Facebook Page Visit
Quigley House’s Facebook Page: “Quigley House Let’s Talk About It.”
Like our page, send/view our pictures, support Quigley House events and
participate in our discussions of the issues surrounding sexual assault.
We met our minimum goal of 50 likes –now we are aiming for 100! Join
the movement! On 4/1 Clothesline Project at the Clay County Court House.
The Clay County Courthouse. The clothesline project is a visual display
to provide awareness about sexual assault. T-shirts will be on display
in honor of those affected by sexual violence in Clay County. An
awareness table distributing brochures and SAAM paraphernalia will also
accompany the clothesline display. On 4/1 – 4/30 Library Display: All
Clay County Libraries will display books/suggested readings related to
sexual assault as well as provide Quigley House brochures and SAAM
paraphernalia. On 4/2 Open House: Quigley House Sexual Assault Center (QHSAC) 10AM-3PM. Quigley
House will proudly put on display its newest addition to the agency
–The Quigley House Sexual Assault Center. The Open House will include a
tour of the facility, information regarding its medical and forensic
services while raising awareness about sexual violence and SAAM. On 4/3
SAAM Day of Action:
Quigley House is supporting SAAM by encouraging the Clay community and
its friends to change their Facebook profile picture to a clock to
proclaim “It’s time…to talk about it.” We are also encouraging people to
visit Quigley House’s Facebook page: “Quigley House let’s Talk About
It!” to engage in our discussions to raise awareness and prevention
about sexual violence. On 4/3 Teal to Heal:
Quigley House Sexual Assault Center (SAC). 4:30 -6:30PM Clay Community
unites to raise awareness. Participants will gather at the SAC grounds
–wearing teal, holding/chanting slogans to raise awareness about sexual
assault. On 4/5 Dine and Donate:
Bubba Burger Grill, Fleming Island. ALL DAY. 20% of your check is
donated to Quigley House. Quigley House is partnering with restaurants
in our community to support awareness and prevention of sexual assault.
Who knew donating could be so delicious? On 4/14 Community Outreach:
Pinewood Presbyterian Church on Knight Boxx Road. 10AM-3PM. Quigley
House will be participating in this annual event. An information booth
will be set up. Brochures and teal ribbons will be distributed as well
as information on awareness/prevention of sexual assault. Attendees will
be familiarized with the various services provided by Quigley House for
primary and secondary victims of sexual assault. On 4/17 Dine and Donate:
Chili’s, Fleming Island. 4-10PM. 15% of your check is donated to
Quigley House. Quigley House is partnering with restaurants in our
community to support awareness and prevention of sexual assault. Who
knew donating could be so delicious? On 4/20 – 4/22 Dine and Donate:
Ruby Tuesday, Fleming Island. ALL DAY. 20% of your check is donated to
Quigley House. Quigley House is partnering with restaurants in our
community to support awareness and prevention of sexual assault. Who
knew donating could be so delicious? On 4/21-4/28 Victims’ Rights Week.
Quigley House will be teaming up with the Clay County Domestic
Violence and Sexual Assault Task Force to promote victims’ rights,
honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. On 4/24 Victims’ Rights Week:
Self Defense Class FOP Hall Orange Park Substation, 212 Blanding Blvd.
6:30-8:30PM. The community is invited to learn self-defense techniques
with Clay County Sheriff’s Office Detectives. The class is free, space
is limited. For 4/25 The Victims' Rights Ceremony
will be at the Pavilion located on the corner of HWY-17 and Kingsley
Ave in Orange Park. Starting at 5:30PM. A ceremony to bring
recognition, compassion and inspiration to crime victims. Guest speakers
and food will be provided along with information about victim
services. All are welcomed to attend! Guest speakers and food will be
provided along with information about victim services. On 4/28 Arbor Day Festival:
Lawrence Blvd, Keystone Heights. Sexual Assault Awareness Booth
9AM-1PM. An annual festival held in Keystone’s natural park –joined by
Non-profit organizations like Quigley House. Information, brochures
regarding SAAM will be provided.
- Palm Beach County Victim Services will be hosting an open house at the Victim Services SART Center
on April 26th from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Victim Services SART Center
4210 N. Australian Ave, West Palm Beach, Fl 33407 R.S.V.P. (561)
625-2568. Ceremony in the Garden ~ The First Anniversary
– April 24, 2012 – This ceremony is to honor victims in Palm Beach
County by having them share their personal stories and testimonies in
the serene setting of Mounts Botanical Garden, where we have a bench
that was dedicated to crime victims. Victims’ Rights Week Annual Awards Luncheon
– April 27, 2012 – During this event, Victim Services will recognize
professionals in the community who have provided outstanding services to
victims of sexual assault as well as members of the Palm Beach County
Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). Bandana Project
- In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month – Victims of sexual
assault will decorate bandanas to be displayed at the Victim Services
SART Center during our grand opening.
- Crisis Center of Tampa has many events scheduled for SAAM. Voicing My Strength: Survivors’ Resiliency and Speakers Workshop
April 7, 2012 Crisis Center of Tampa Bay One Crisis Center Plaza,
Tampa, FL 33613 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is
hosting a workshop dedicated to the process of expressing journeys of
strength, transformation and celebrating resiliency. Voicing My Strength
is an interactive workshop developed for sexual violence, domestic
violence, abuse, incest and human trafficking survivors to assist in the
expression of the journey through recovery to loved ones, friends
and/or techniques about how spread awareness in public forums. This is
an interactive workshop and should not be considered counseling or
therapy. There will be advocates and counselors present during the
workshop to assist anyone with their process. In a supportive
environment we will discuss positive coping techniques and how to handle
triggers through methods of self-care. The workshop will include the
following interactive sessions: Resiliency & Coping, Expressing Your
Story, Survivors Supporting Survivors. Operation Freefall
10:00 AM Skydive City, Zephyrhills, FL. On April 28, 2012, The Crisis
Center of Tampa Bay will be hosting a drop zone for Operation Freefall:
The Two-Mile High Stand Against Sexual Assault®. Supporters of sexual
violence will be participating in the nation's boldest,
highest-altitude, and most daring effort to put an end to sexual
assault. We have an amazing team of 24 participants, including Mr. David
Braughton, CEO of the Crisis Center jumping out of perfectly good
airplanes to support survivors! Take Back the Night April 29, 2012 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Curtis Hixon Park 600 North Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL 33602. The
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay in collaboration with the Sexual Violence
Task Force of Tampa Bay is hosting Take Back the Night, an interactive
event that creates awareness, empowers survivors and educates the
community about sexual violence. April is Sexual Violence Awareness
Month, and the Crisis Center is dedicated to the mobilization of the
community proclaiming that this violence is unacceptable! We invite you
to join us for Take Back the Night: Together We Empower and help create
an environment filled with hope, healing and freedom from violence. This
event is scheduled for Sunday, April 29th, at Curtis Hixon Park music
fest and resource fair starting at 4:00 PM and ceremony starting at 6:00
PM. Take Back the Night is the assembly of survivors of violence and
supporters, who are interested in building strength and awareness to
eradicate the epidemic of sexual violence. The event includes a Men’s
pledge, candlelight vigil, silent march and a speak-out to invite
survivors and supporters to shatter the silence of sexual violence. Men’s Pledge
April 29, 2012 Curtis Hixon Park 6:00 p.m. North Ashley Drive, Tampa,
FL 33602. Men Stopping Violence Against Women, an organization founded
by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay dedicated to mobilizing men to use
their many strengths for creating a society free from violence against
women, will be leading their fellow male community members in a pledge
against violence and the encouragement and empowerment of women. Men
are invited to stand up and pledge to work against ending sexual and
domestic violence, and by volunteering to take the pledge, men will be
taking an effective and important step towards creating social change
and promoting awareness.
- Manatee Glens is having a sexual assault awareness day rally on April 18, 2012 from 3pm-5pm. It will be held at Manatee Glens Rape Crisis Services, 383 6th Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida. Their theme is “Turning the Tide: From Victim to Survivor.” It will be a day for survivors and local agencies to come together regarding this important issue. They will have refreshments, crafts and a display of past and present survivor art work.
- Birdgeway Center, Inc. has several events planned. Already, the Mayors of Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville and Crestview have signed proclamations designating April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in their respective cities. On April 2, Mayor Sam Seevers read the proclamation at the Destin City Council Meeting and presented it to Kaye Petralia, representing the Bridgeway Rape Crisis Center. On March 29, they attended a “Semester De-stressor” at the University of West Florida School of Engineering and presented the students with prevention information and free items with the “Respect” theme. On April 4, they brought the message to the UWF Fort Walton Beach Campus, explaining the meaning of SAAM and providing them with teal ribbon pins. They will be going out to the Northwest Florida State College on April 18 with the same message and have provided 8 large posters to display on campus. On April 20, Kaye Petralia will be attending the Victim Advocate Recognition Day at Eglin Air Force Base. On April 27, along with their Sexual Assault Interagency Council, they will be sponsoring a “Beach Bash” on Okaloosa Island. They will invite the local radio station to broadcast from the Boardwalk and will be giving away freebies with the prevention theme to beachgoers.
- Refuge House in Franklin County is hosting a SAAM luncheon at the Apalachicola Center for History, Culture and Art 86 Water Street Apalachicola, Florida on April 19, 2012 at 12:30pm. Bring yourself and a friend to hear a dynamic speaker, view an astounding video and eat lunch while supporting this important cause. The Franklin County SART(Sexual Assault Response Team) has been working diligently to increase awareness and improve response to sexual violence for the citizens of Franklin County. Please RSVP to asapp@refugehouse.com
SAAM Events Around the State
Rally in Tally 2012 - SAAM Comes Early to Florida
Rape crisis centers across the state worked diligently to provide unprecedented attention to National Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in April 2011. This year’s theme “It’s time…to get involved” clearly resounded with center staff and supporters as they joined walks, speak-outs, press conferences, film screenings, art exhibits, and outreach events all in the interest of informing the public about sexual violence, where victims can go to seek help and why it is important that communities pay attention to this critical issue. Many centers participated in hosting Lauren Book and Lauren’s Kids as she made her 1,000 mile Walk in My Shoes journey across Florida and travelled to Tallahassee to participate in the Rally in Tally on April 26th. All centers took on the hefty job of expanding their outreach and public activities during SAAM while at the same time doing their full time jobs of direct service. In many cases this included providing logistical support, holding rallies and receptions, recruiting walkers for Walk in My Shoes and supporting survivors along the way by providing advocacy on the Lauren’s Kids bus. FCASV tips its hat to all those who worked to make SAAM a priority. Highlights of SAAM 2011 included:
- Christina’s Courage hosted Lauren’s Kids for the kick-off of Walk in My Shoes 2011 in Key West that included a press conference, proclamation, and accompanying walkers for the first leg of the walk.
- MUJER hosted a walk celebration including a troupe of Latin dancers, proclamations read by the mayors of both Homestead and Florida City, and a reading and book signing by Lauren Book.
- Broward County Sexual Assault Treatment Center provided tremendous support for the Walk in My Shoes event, hosting a mini-press conference, providing walker support and participants from the local community, and recruiting many local dignitaries to show support for SAAM.
- Palm Beach County Victim Services worked to secure proclamations, recruit walkers, and coordinate a welcome rally at Martin County Courthouse.
- Sexual Assault Assistance Program of the Treasure Coast provided tremendous logistical support for Walk in My Shoes, recruited walkers including local dignitaries to participate in SAAM events.
- The Women’s Center of Brevard hosted Lauren Book for a book reading and signing and recruited walkers for Walk in My Shoes.
- Victim Service Center of Orange County once again launched their Under Aware Campaign to collect clothing and other supportive items for victims of sexual assault and provided logistical support for Walk in My Shoes, including a visit and speech by Senator Bill Nelson.
- Sexual Assault Victim Services worked on SAAM events including the Walk in My Shoes event and provided a warm welcome to walkers and logistical support for Lauren’s Kids.
- Alpha House provided a celebration BBQ and rally, a book reading and signing, and hosted Lauren Book at their center. They worked closely with Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to help provide logistical support to Lauren’s Kids.
- Crisis Center of Tampa Bay provided incredible media and logistical support for Walk in My Shoes and hosted their own very successful Take Back the Night march and rally.
- University of Florida advocates hosted Lauren’s Kids and held a powerful Take Back the Night march and rally.
- Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center participated in a campus night at the University of Florida, took part in the Take Back the Night march and rally and provided support for Lauren’s Kids and the Walk in My Shoes event.
- Betty Griffin House provided tremendous support for SAAM, including many media publications, events on Flagler College campus, a book reading and signing by Lauren Book, a proclamation, and many other efforts.
- Women’s Center of Jacksonville had a very busy SAAM, hosting an art exhibits, Walk in My Shoes events, and outreach efforts.
- Lakeview Center hosted their annual road race, “Run for Their Lives,” participated in, provided logistical support for and coordinated a kick-off ceremony for Walk in My Shoes.
- Bridgeway Center hosted Lauren’s Kids and provided great participation and support for Lauren’s Kids and a book reading and signing by Lauren Book.
- The Salvation Army Domestic Violence & Rape Crisis Program hosted Lauren’s Kids on their leg of the walk, coordinated a book reading and signing by Lauren Book, and worked on a city proclamation and reception for SAAM.
- Refuge
House provided one of the largest groups
of walkers during the walk in Perry and assisted with coordination for
the
Rally in Tally. They also hosted a successful flag staking ceremony
during which they planted over 1,000 flags representing the number of
victims in Taylor county in front of Doctor's Memorial Hospital in
Perry.
- Manatee Glens Rape Crisis Services worked to provide awareness, emphasizing the Day of Awareness events during SAAM.
Resources for SAAM 2011
National Sexual Violence Resource Center SAAM Website:
SAAM in Spanish Website:
Lauren’s Kids
National Calendar of SAAM Events:
Florida National Sexual Assault Awareness Month on Facebook:
Take Back the Night
http://www.takebackthenight.org/
White Ribbon Campaign
Lauren's Walk April 2-20 Aventura to Tallahassee. Coverage of the event in Tallahassee featured FCASV Executive Director Jennifer Dritt.
Lauren's Kids composed a summary of the final day of events.
The month of April has been designated as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities and individuals on how to prevent it. The 2010 theme was "Prevent Sexual Violence on our Campuses." The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) published a toolkit to help organizations and individuals to develop their own SAAM campaigns.
FCASV created a Facebook Group titled Florida National Sexual Assault Awareness Month that allowed all members to view and discuss events that happened around the state.
CARE collaborated with Edison College with a tabling event in the cafeteria. Every two minutes CARE Staff rang a bell, signifying that a rape occurs once every two minutes. In addition, CARE staff delivered to each emergency room a box of cookies with teal ribbon icing (made by Publix bakery) along with scrolls of appreciation and information on topics ranging from procedures for non-reporting victims and self-care.
Sexual Assault Victim Services participated with The Women's Center and held our SAAM Event at our local Community College (Brevard Community College - BCC). They had speakers from the community (SAVS, Women's Center, Local Law Enforcement, and Lauren Book). There were about 50 people in attendance. In addition to Lauren speaking at their event, they were also able to participate with Lauren on her walk. Due to the event on the first day of her walk in Brevard, they were only able to walk with her about 4 miles. On her second day, 2 staff members were able to walk the entire day with her.
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and the Sexual Violence Task Force of Tampa Bay participated in TONS of activities during April. Lauren’s Walk was one of them on April 13, along with a presence at USF’s Take Back the Night, as well a wonderful community Take Back the Night on April 17, bringing out around 500 people, including 100 men! They got the downtown Tampa SunTrust building to light up TEAL for one week and have tons of great pictures and videos on YouTube from all this.
2010 SAAM Events
Broward County Sexual Assault Treatment Center, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Contact: Nancy Cotterman or Ana Ferrer at 954-765-4159
Website: www.broward.org/sexualassault
Denim
Day, including proclomation and celebration in the Board of County
Commissioners Chamber, 2:00 p.m., Tuesday 4/27/10. Survivor art and
awareness exhibit throughout the month of April in the Broward County
Governmental Center lobby, located at 115 S. Andrews Ave, Ft.
Lauderdale, FL 33301.
Sunrise of Pasco County, Inc., Dade City, FL
Contact: Christina Bates at 352-521-3358
Website: www.sunrisepasco.org
Walk
a Mile in Her Shoes Men's March, 9:00 a.m., Saturday 3/13/10 during
Founder's Day parade in downtown Zephyrhills, FL. Help raise awareness
about gender violence in a fun and unique way. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
is an opportunity for men to educate the community
about a very serious subject and to rally the community to take action
to
prevent rape, sexual
assault, and gender violence in
future generations.
Speaking Out Against Rape, Inc. (SOAR), Orlando, FL
Contact: Kelli Greene at 407-898-0693
Website: www.operationfreefall.com
SOAR is hosting Operation Freefall: The Two-Mile High Stand Against Sexual
Violence, sunrise to sunset, Saturday, 4/24/10 at Skydive
City in Zephyrhills, FL.
Lakeview Center, Inc., Pensacola, FL
Contact: Erika Smith at 850-469-3942
Website: www.elakeviewcenter.org
Run for Their Lives 5k run/walk, 8:00 a.m.,Saturday, 4/10/10 at Pensacola
Beach. Run for Their Lives is held in recognition of Sexual
Assault Awareness Month and Crime Victims Rights Week. The race is followed
by a post-race party with live music, an awards ceremony, and a free raffle with
great door prizes.
The Salvation Army Domestic Violence & Rape Crisis Program, Panama City, FL
Contact: Shawn Taylor at 850-769-7989
Website: www.marinaciviccenter.com
The
Salvation Army Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Program in Panama City
will
be hosting a benefit concert for SAAM featuring Christian music artist
Martha Munizzi, 7:00 p.m. Friday 4/30/10. The concert will be held at
the Marina Civic Center in Panama City. Tickets are
$20 each or $15 for groups of 20 or more.
Tickets on sale starting 3/5/10 and can be purchased online or at the
ticket office located in the Civic
Center.
Quigley House, Inc., Orange Park, FL
Contact: Meredith Murphy at 984-284-0340
Website: www.quigleyhouse.org
Strike
Out Violence Softball Game between the Police and Firefighters at
Armstrong Park in Doctor's Inlet 4/23/10, 10:00 a.m. Victim's Rights
Ceremony at the Clay County Courthouse in Green Cove Springs. They will
have several survivors of violence share their stories during this
ceremony and refreshments will be provided, 5:00 p.m. 4/23/10.
Clothesline Project throughout the month of April at the Clay County
Courthouse
as well as displayed at several highschools.
Women's Center of Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL
Contact: Tina Vaughn at 904-722-3000 ext. 209
Website: WomensCenterOfJax.org
Sexual
Assault Awareness Month Kick-Off as the Women's Center of
Jacksonville partners with the University of North Florida's Women's
Center.
There will be a Proclamation reading and campus tabling where both
Women's
Centers will have awareness materials available for the student
population on April 1st. SAAM kickoff event at the Jacksonville Police
Memorial Building. Attendees include members of the Sheriff's Office,
local media, prosecutors,
victim service agencies and political leaders. This year, talking
points will
address the national theme of preventing violence on college campuses.
In the
evening, the Women's Center will host "New Beginnings", an art program
consisting of art created by survivors. The event will include a
survivor
speak-out, in honor of survivors and their loved ones in the community,
and
light refreshments will be served on April 15th. Women's Center of
Jacksonville will also be hosting a FREE film screening at Five Points
Theater, a local
establishment, and a discussion panel, including local survivors and
activists,
will follow the film presentation on April 29th.
Orange County Victim Services, Orlando, FL
Contact: Danielle Kapusin at 407-644-2577
Website: www.victimservicecenter.com
Denim
Day April 20. Wear denim jeans and a teal ribbon to show your support
of a community free of sexual violence. Businesses may consider
collecting donations from staff who wear denim to benefit the VSC . UnderAWARE Underware Drive. The
VSC provides replacement underwear and clothing for every individual who has
theirs taken as evidence when receiving services at the Sexual Assault
Treatment Center. Donate unopened packages of underwear to Orange County Victim Services at 1801 Lee
Road, Suite 165 Winter Park, FL 32789 Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00. Everyone
who visits the VSC to donate underwear during the month of April will receive a
coupon for a free starter or glass of wine at Urban Flats!
Palm Beach County Victim Services, West Palm Beach, FL
Contact: Sandy Reynolds at 561-355-2418
Action
Day on FAU Boca Raton Campus 11-1 advocates will be available in the
breezeway between the library and cafeteria. Panel discussion with
community professionals 5:30-6:30 Bldg. SO12.
Ocala-Marion County Sexual Assault Center, Ocala, FL
Contact: Stephanie Kary at 850-622-8495
3rd
Annual Day of Sharing Friday, April 23rd. This donation drive is for
needed items for the sexual violence shelter in Ocala.
2009 Sexual Assault Awareness Month Successes
Florida
did it again with a Capitol press conference and events sponsored by
rape crisis centers across the state! SAAM 2009 was another powerful
celebration of sexual assault survivors, awareness and outreach events
and creative community-based activities including the first ever
Presidential SAAM Proclamation. This article highlights some of the
events; please use the information to network, collaborate, and
generate ideas for next year's events.
Capitol
Press Conference
FCASV
sponsored a Sexual Assault Awareness Month press conference at the
Florida State Capitol to address the impact of sexual violence on the
citizens of Florida and to highlight legislative initiatives. Speakers
included Attorney General Bill McCollum, Senator Mike Fasano (R-Port
Richey), Representatives Audrey Gibson (D-Jacksonville) and Yolly
Roberson (D-Miami), FCASV Executive Director Jennifer Dritt, Refuge
House Executive Director Meg Baldwin and sexual assault survivors
Yolanda Fairell and Ron Book. Attendees also took a moment to thank the
Florida Senate and House for passing resolutions recognizing April 2009
as "Sexual Assault Awareness Month" in Florida.
From
left to right: Rep. Yolly Roberson (D-Miami), Attorney General Bill
McCollum, Refuge House Director Meg Baldwin, Yolanda Fairell (speaking)
and FCASV Public Affairs Director Terri Poore
Presidential Proclamation Marks April Sexual
Assault Awareness Month
Thanks
to the efforts of the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence,
Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape and the National Center for Victims
of Crime, President Obama became the first president to issue a proclamation
for SAAM.
Highlights
from Community Events
Bridgeway Center,
Fort Walton Beach
Bridgeway
collaborated with the Okaloosa Walton Sexual Assault Interagency
Council to hold a "Respect Works" awareness event. The event was held
at the same time as other community family-oriented events, so the
turnout was high. The Hurlburt Air Force Base SARC publicized the event
on the radio, and Bridgeway spoke at a Mental Health Association
meeting. They gave attendees goody bags that contained sexual assault
information and also fun giveaways like frisbees, chapstick with the
"Respect Works" logo, whistles, beads and coloring books. The publicity
helped. Attendance was high from Hurlburt and Eglin Air Force bases and
the mental health association, as well as the Okaloosa County Sheriff's
Office and Bridgeway volunteer program.
The event was a good opportunity to educate the community on SAAM and sexual violence information and services. At the event the organizers passed out approximately 75 more goody bags containing sexual assault information, prevention and safety tips, and service information about the Rape Crisis Hotline and the rape crisis center. The Hurlburt SART gave a presentation on drugs used to facilitate rape and provided anti-drug resources and coloring books for children. Many families visited the display and took the materials.
Bridgeway
SAAM Event Team
Project Help, Naples
Project
Help coordinated and participated in numerous SAAM events:
*Mailed
local businesses NSVRC materials "Prevent Sexual Violence in Our
Workplaces" and offered businesses free sexual harassment training.
*Put
up a SAAM display in the local library
*Collaborated
with the local university to sponsor a Clothesline Project, Poetry
Slam, Sexual Harassment 101 training and the first Take Back the Night
Speak Out and Rally
*Participated in Denim Day
*Organized a local
SAAM proclamation
*Had a SAAM editorial published in the local paper
Collaborating with the university went very well. The Take Back the Night event was small but powerful and the Clothesline Project gave a chance for teen survivors to express themselves and to see how many people are there to support them.
Next year Project Help staff plan on increasing
involvement of local businesses, publicity of SAAM events and
participation of the community. They suggest that centers participating
in Denim Day have "Ask me why I'm wearing jeans" pins to spark
conversation and increase awareness.
They offer the following advice
for next year's SAAM: Get organized. Get everyone on staff involved.
Reach out to the community as much as you can. And remember, you can
never start too early!
Refuge House, Tallahassee
Refuge
House
hosted a family friendly "Stop the Violence" festival at a local
park, participated in Denim Day, had a display table at a Florida State
University concert and collaborated with the university to stage a Take
Back the Night Speakout. The "Stop the Violence" festival featured a
keynote speaker, musical entertainment, a Zumba session, and even Star
Wars costume characters. The SAAM events were a great success,
providing the community with fun, honoring survivors of sexual violence
and raising awareness about the issue.
South Brevard
Women's Center, Melbourne
The
South Brevard Women's Center hosted an art show featuring art submitted
by teens that reflected their thoughts and feelings about the issue of
sexual violence. They served refreshments while the guests viewed the
teens' art work and provided a pad of paper in front of each art piece
on which the attendees could write their thoughts to the artist about
their work. A PSA video from the 2004 SAAM event played for guests to
watch.
Sue Kiley, director of counseling services, spoke about the purpose and history of the SAAM event. Guests then viewed a 15-minute video called "Silence Speaks." The video included stories of real people who have suffered from the trauma of sexual violence. After viewing the video, Debbie Knust, SAVS program supervisors, Christy Cannella, Women's Center violence prevention educator; and Krista Puente Trefz, Psy.D, women's center counselor, all gave brief presentations about the role they play in helping and preventing sexual violence.
The Women's Center was pleased with both the high turnout and the number and quality of art pieces submitted. Most of the artists attended and were able to speak about their artwork to the guests. Despite the hard economic times, many local businesses donated to the art show.
The Women's Center's recommendations are to start planning early in order to allot more time to educating hesitant teachers and school board members about the importance of dealing with sexual violence. They expect that more direct contact with teachers, and possibly the art students themselves, via mini-presentations about SAAM would raise the attendance even higher among this group.
Future ideas for a SAAM event include a 5k run/walk at a local facility called the Running Zone. Getting the business to sponsor the run may turn out many avid runners simply because they love to run, but it would also present an opportunity to engage and educate members of the community who otherwise may not be reached. It might also promote more media.
Women's
Center of Jacksonville, Jacksonville
On April 2, the Women's Center coordinated a SAAM kickoff event. Held on the steps of the Jacksonville Police Memorial Building, attendees included members of the Sheriff's Office, local media, prosecutors, victim service agencies and political leaders. The event highlighted the 2009 SAAM theme "Respect Works! Prevent Violence in our Workplaces." The message underscored the role of respectful behavior in creating safe and healthy communities and workplaces. In the evening, the Women's Center hosted the "Surviving to Thriving" art program that consisted of art created by survivors. The event was held in honor of survivors and their loved ones in the community and included food and refreshments.
SAAM
2009 Planning Materials
The
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) website
launched the 2009 SAAM campaign building on last year's theme: "Prevent
Sexual Violence ... in our workplaces," and added the slogan Respect
Works!
NSVRC provided numerous materials for 2009 including the campaign packet, a resource list, outreach guide, fact sheet, and employer checklist.
The NSVRC featured event Making a Difference: Your Role in Sexual Violence Prevention provides workshop materials, a PowerPoint presentation, and a facilitator's guide that is available to download in a PDF format. The workshop is based on Joan Tabachnick's new publication, Engaging Bystanders in Sexual Violence Prevention, which can be downloaded from the website.
Highlights of 2008 SAAM Successes
Despite reduced funding and budget cuts, sexual assault programs put sexual assault prevention and awareness center stage for the month of April. Programs throughout the state made powerful statements, staged creative events, and made a difference in their communities. Here are highlights of events submitted to FCASV. The list is not exhaustive and only represents the activities that came to our attention, but please use the information to network, collaborate, and generate ideas for next year's events!
Florida Council Against Sexual Violence
FCASV
sponsored
a SAAM event at the Capitol. Representatives Snyder and Jenne
welcomed participants and provided a brief overview of the major issues
affecting rape survivors and rape crisis centers during this
legislative session. Participants then visited the office of all 160
legislators to distribute informational packets and educate them on the
needs of victims of sexual violence.
Betty Griffin House
Betty
Griffin House posted a fantastic "Take
Back the Night" video on You Tube. Take a look!
They
also coordinated a month long event with the Hastings Library in St.
John's County. The Hastings librarian made a display in the front of
the library highlighting Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the
resources (books, videos, DVDs) available at the library.
Project
Help
Project
Help sponsored Denim Day asking members of their community to donate $5
to Project HELP and wear denim to work to honor and empower survivors
of Sexual Assault. They also sponsored an event at Hurricane Grill
& Wings with 10% of the proceeds benefiting Project HELP. Finally,
Project Help provided local businesses with free training workshops on
sexual harassment prevention in the workplace.
Alachua
County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center
Representatives
from the center visited Alachua County high schools to teach students
the rules of "respecting your date." The Respect Your Date Contest
is designed to raise awareness and prevention of dating violence, and
participants in the program entered a drawing for prizes that included
a free tuxedo rental and manicures - a big draw for students planning
to attend the high school prom.
Sunrise of Pasco County
The
East
Pasco Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force met and had eight
speakers, including a Sunrise counselor reading a victim's statement, a
representative from Pasco County Schools describing school-based
programs addressing sexual assault, and reports from law enforcement
and child protective investigations. A legislative update was given and
information provided on the new law addressing non-reporting victims.
Megan Hussey, a reporter from the Tampa Tribune, attended the
Task Force meeting and wrote an in-depth article that appeared in the Tribune
on April 18th. Sunrise also participated in Denim Day during which
businesses, agencies and schools posted sexual violence information and
participants wore "Why Denim" stickers to raise awareness.
Center
for Abuse and Rape Emergencies
CARE
victim advocates spent Sexual Assault Awareness Day distributing
materials to businesses in Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, and Murdock.
Carolyn Quinn, reporter for the Charlotte Sun-Herald, printed a
story on the program's SAAM activities.
The Women's
Center of Jacksonville
The Florida Times-Union
newspaper published an informative article for Sexual Assault Awareness
Month. The article provided government statistics on sexual assault and
highlighted the rape crisis support services offered by the Women's
Center.
Lakeview Center
About 160 people
participated
in a 5K run/walk, Run for Their Lives, sponsored by the Lakeview Center
to raise awareness of rape and other violent crimes. Proceeds from the
event benefited the Lakeview Trauma Recovery Program. The run was
organized to bring the community together around issues of sexual
assault and to support those who have been victims of violent crime. An
article on the run was printed in the April 6th edition of the Pensacola
News Journal.
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
The
Crisis
Center presented the 6th Annual "Take Back the Night Candle
Light Vigil and Speak Out." The event was held at the Temple Terrace
United Methodist Church and featured keynote speakers Veraunda Jackson,
Esq. and Captain Bob Staehle.
Family Life Center
The
center sponsored numerous events throughout the month. Some highlights
include:
•
The Flagler County Sexual Assault Task Force hosted an informational
booth during the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life event.
•
Proclamation Ceremony and Rape Prevention Training, "Justice for
Victims, Justice for All. The event included free continental
breakfast, goodie bags, live performances, and children's activities
during the training to encourage community participation.
• The
Flagler County Sexual Assault Task Force presented multiple classes
using the Rape: Get the Facts curriculum. Representatives from the
Flagler County Sheriff's Department went to the schools during lunch to
assist students in making t-shirts for the clothesline display and to
distribute information and materials. The outreach was expected to
reach over 2,500 teens.
• Awareness is Power Rally was held at the
Flagler Beach Park. T-shirts decorated with messages from sexual
assault survivors were displayed throughout the park. The rally offered
live music, free food, bounce house for children, cake walks, Sheriff's
canine demonstrations and sexual violence information and materials.
The event was open to the entire community.
• The Palm Coast and
Flagler Beach Libraries participated in SAAM by displaying a t-shirt
clothesline during the month of April.
Florida
Agricultural and Mechanical University
The
University's Counseling Center sponsored a Clothesline Project on
campus during which local agencies set up display tables highlighting
sexual violence services and providing information and materials.
Materials were available for students to design t-shirts for the
campus-based Clothesline Project. FAMU also held a survivors' ceremony
on campus which featured songs and poetry written by survivors and time
for a survivors' speak-out.
State Attorney, 19th Circuit
Sexual Assault Assistance Program
The
Sexual Assault Assistance Program provided local libraries with an
updated sexual violence book/video/DVD list. The librarians were
pleased to have the information because the library's sexual violence
materials were outdated; the library staff agreed to order as many of
the newer materials as possible.
Dawn Center of Hernando County
The center staff decided to give out wooden roses instead of teal ribbons during SAAM activities. The website for the roses is http://www.wooden-rose.com/usa/.
Planning
and Publicizing:
Instructions
Event
Planning Guide
Activities
List
Label
Postcard
Ribbon
Card
Flyer
Tear
Off
Expanding Our Reach:
Reaching
Out
Long
History
Inviting
Policy Makers
Letter
to Community Leaders
MySpace
Primer
Sexual
Assault Response Team (SART) Information
Steps
for Creating a SART:
Working with the Media:
Media
Release
Media
Advisory
Day
of Event Release
Logo Files:
Black
and White PNG Logo
Color
PNG Logo
Black
and White JPEG Logo
Color
JPEG Logo
Spanish
PNG Logo
Spanish
GIF Logo
Spanish
PDF Logo
Images from Previous SAAM Events
