Does sexual assault happen here in Darien? Yes, it happens everywhere.
You can learn more about what’s being done locally and in our area to deal with and reduce sexual assault at a presentation on Jan. 3 about the Center, the only agency in lower Fairfield County providing free and confidential services to victims of sexual assault.
Image from the Center on Facebook
“Sexual assault is truly a community problem.”
The Center offers assistance and support services, crisis counseling and education related to sexual assault.
The public is invited to a presentation and discussion at 9:45 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018 at the Darien Board of Education building, 35 Leroy Ave (immediately following the Darien League of Women Voters monthly business meeting).
The Darien League of Women Voters is proud to feature a timely discussion of sexual assault issues with Quentin Ball, executive director of the Center, and Counselor Juana Yanes, along with a presentation of the resources the group provides.
Education is critical in stopping sexual violence. Community prevention education programs raise awareness about the issues of personal safety, sexual harassment and assault, their prevalence in our society, signs of perpetrator behavior and symptoms of trauma.
The Center staffs a 24-hour hotline in English and Spanish with trained counselors and volunteers. For many, this is the first point of contact to find help. Trained counselor/advocates provide free and confidential sessions to victims of sexual violence as well as any family members in need of related support.
Advocates are available to meet clients in hospitals, police stations to provide support and to guide clients through the court process. The Center offers a range of age appropriate prevention education programs that can be taught to audiences from kindergarten through college age.
In addition counselors teach “Know Before You Go” courses for college-bound students so that they are aware of prevention techniques and resources, available to them before getting to campus.
For further information, join the League of Women Voters on Jan. 3 or contact The Center at 203.487.0671