One student org's plan to address sexual assault
News
Campus Assault Response, a student-run organization addressing the issue of sexual assault prevention and support on campus, has a full year ahead of them and a call out for students who would like to join in their efforts.
The organization, which operates out of the University Health Center, is perhaps best known for the CARE student-run helpline, which offers 24/7 support to students who have been directly or indirectly affected by sexual assault or intimate partner violence and who are in need of crisis intervention or information.
But, in addition to this service, CARE also organizes a series of many major campuswide events and contributes to other groups’ efforts to raise awareness around sexual assault on campus. This year, those activities will include:
Educational Programs
This fall, CARE plans to bring a national speaker to campus to address sexual assault. Details will be made available on CARE’s website as soon as possible. CARE also offers presentations to other organizations on campus about sexual assault and encourages both men and women to use CARE as a resource throughout the year.
The Red Flag Campaign
The Red Flag Campaign is a weeklong campaign in October to raise awareness for and prevention of intimate partner violence at JMU. Last year’s event volunteers had a heavy presence on The Commons, educating and challenging students to take a stand against intimate partner violence.
CARE Step Up For Survivors
This April, during national Sexual Assault Awareness month, CARE will sponsor a walk to empower survivors, both primary and secondary, of sexual assault, abuse and rape.
Take Back the Night
Also happening this April, CARE will contribute to Take Back the Night, an evening dedicated to raising awareness about sexual assault. Last year’s activities included a cappella performances, a national speaker, a speak-out session and a candlelit march.
All students are welcome to attend CARE meetings, which are held on Mondays at 8 p.m. in Room 1075 of the Student Success Center.
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Sept. 4, 2014
