Providing Love and Support for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

by | April 2, 2024

This April, as we mark the 23rd anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), we’re reminded of the collective journey toward creating safer communities. Our acknowledgment of SAAM’s history—from the founding of the first rape crisis center to the nationwide Take Back the Night marches—is a testament to the enduring strength of advocates and survivors alike. Team Anna is committed to this movement, now focusing on the power of community action in raising awareness and spearheading prevention efforts.

SAAM has evolved overtime, reflecting our society’s growing understanding of assault prevention. SAAM first started as an awareness campaign. Today, SAAM’s approach is multifaceted, emphasizing education and behavioral change that promote respect and safety. Team Anna recognizes that we advocate on the foundation built by past advocates, which gives us a platform that allows deeper community involvement in Orlando and throughout House District 42. 

As we reflect on the significance of SAAM, let’s turn our awareness into action. Each of us has a role to play in preventing sexual assault and supporting survivors. Team Anna remains at the forefront of this critical issue, dedicated to empowering survivors through accessible support services and advocating for justice. From hotlines and counseling services to educational workshops and advocacy groups, these organizations form a network of support essential for both immediate intervention and long-term prevention strategies. Team Anna invites you to join us in attending events, volunteering, and spreading the word about the robust resources our community offers. With solidarity, awareness, and proactive measures, we strive toward a future free from sexual violence.

Check out the below resources in Central Florida: 

Resources at Valencia College 

  • Designated emergency numbers and hotlines for each campus, found here!
  • Link to Report Page
  • Valencia College has contracted with a private counseling service to provide short-term assistance to credit-seeking students who need to resolve challenges that are negatively impacting their academic performance and/or emotional wellbeing. BayCare provides a toll-free confidential helpline 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year. If you need to talk to a counselor, you can connect with BayCare here and here.

Resources at Rollins College

  • Campus Safety is available 24/7/365 by calling (407) 646-2999. They can assist with transports on campus and call for medical transport in emergency situations. If there is continued threat or risk of danger, call Campus Safety or call 911.   
  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at the Wellness Center ((407) 628-6340): Students can access one-on-one mental health counseling on campus at no cost with a licensed mental health professional. Services are provided free of charge.  Counselors are available to meet with students by appointment or almost immediately in crisis situations. 
  • Health Services at the Wellness Center ((407) 646-6340): Students may seek medical attention, Plan B, STD/STI testing or seek answers to their questions and concerns by visiting the Wellness Center.  
  • After-Hours Crisis Phone for the Rollins Wellness Center 24/7/365 at 833.848.1761
  • Online reporting is available here: Rollins.edu/TIXreporting 

Resources at University of Central Florida

Victim Service Center of Central Florida: Located at 2111 East Michigan Street, Suite 210 or at (407) 500-4325, VSC provides immediate emotional support of victims and helps the victim explore their options moving forward – including obtaining a forensic exam. 

Florida Council Against Sexual Violence: Guides victims to their nearest certified sexual assault programs throughout the state and aids vicitims with legal services.  

Florida Health: Provides information on sexual assault victim servies, rape center locations, and domestic abuse help. 

Sexual Assault Crisis Dashboard (Orange County Florida Government)  

Find Help: Input your zip code and this NGO will find sexual assault victim service centers in your area

The Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies (C.A.R.E.): Offers a wide variety of services that guides and aids victims on how to proceed after their assault, including a free emergency shelter. C.A.R.E’s crisis hotline is (941) 627-6000 as well as the C.A.R.E’s sexual assault hotline is (941) 637-0404.

Find Your Local Center: Florida has many different certified sexual assault programs to help those who need it. To find the one closest to you, search for your county here.

Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673): You’ll be connected to a trained staff member from a local sexual assault service provider in your area. They will direct you to the appropriate local health facility that can care for survivors.

Living Well Orlando: A practice that offers support groups and therapy for survivors of sexual assault.