April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Crime Victim Services invites the community to reflect on Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout April 2026. We live in a moment, in a movement, where survivors are coming together to publicly address the trauma and violence that has happened in our communities. Survivors have shouted about their injustices for decades. Now is the time. We must recognize the harm caused by sexual violence in our communities, believe survivors, and create environments where healing can lead to thriving.

We believe survivors. We know that trauma causes changes to our brain and survivors may act in ways  opposite of how people think one should act. However, when a survivor discloses their incident to a friend or family member, we need to be supportive. We need to say, “I believe you and I’m sorry that happened.”

If you, or someone you know, is or has ever been a victim of sexual violence, call Crime Victim Services and ask for the Day One program, which serves survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking. We provide a 24/7 crisis line; 24/7 hospital advocacy; legal advocacy; campus advocacy; crisis intervention; and case management and supportive services. We  serve children who have been sexually abused at our local Child Advocacy Center. Our work is not in isolation. More than a dozen community partners and countless individuals serve in this endeavor with us, working to end sexual violence.

Our Day One program is collaborating with several Lima area businesses for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.  Check out the following businesses and individuals to enjoy their goods and services as partners of Day One this month:

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Displays at:

• Lima Mall 

• Central District Building 

Business Collaboration:

• Phoenix Nutrition with themed drink and donations for Day One 

• Vibe Coffeehouse & Café with coffee cup sticker ad 

• Reservation Alley with coffee cup sticker ad 

• Madhouse Designs, LLC with themed t-shirts and donations for Day One 

Sexual Assault Services Program Partners: 

• Bradfield Community Center 

• Lady Redd Fitness 

• Plush Cookie Company 

The community is also invited to our 3rd Annual Pound & Paint at Bradfield Community Center on April 24, 2026 from 5pm-7pm. Come enjoy an evening of cookies, cardio drumming, and painting with our Day One Team!