Sexual Assault Crisis Services

 

We honor survivors who have broken their silence and support victims who have yet to find their voice.              - Excerpt from the YWCA Sexual Assault Services pledge

 

Seeking to improve the quality of life for those victimized by sexual assault, this program strives to expand awareness in the community on issues related to sexual violence. In a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere, the YWCA offers rape survivors the support they need and extends this support to family and friends. The program also strives to provide information on the rape trauma syndrome and refer survivors to appropriate medical, legal and social services.

Services are provided for those 12 years of age and up at three different program locations: Compton, South Los Angeles, and South Bay. Program services are provided by student interns and volunteers through a 40-hour training program certified by the State of California with particular emphasis on cultural diversity and sensitivity.

 

Services include*:

Accompaniment: 24-hour advocate support at hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and courts

Community Education: workshops and community events which increase awareness of sexual violence

Counseling: individual counseling, group counseling, and healing art services

Crisis Intervention: community resources and 24-hour crisis hotline - 1-877- Y HELPS U 1-877-943-5778

Prevention Education: workshops and events to decrease the occurrence of sexual violence

Self Defense: a women's empowerment model based on awareness, assertiveness, and physical techniques

Clothesline Project: participants create t-shirts that depict various forms of violence against women, then publicly display them to ""air out the dirty laundry""

 

* The services are offered in English and Spanish. Other support services are available as needed.