Sexual Assault Program
Plan ahead for safety! Call us anytime, any day at 360-748-6601 or 800-244-7414.
Intercesoras estan disponibles 24/7. Todos los servicios son gratis y confidenciales.
Español: 360-880-0515
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual Assault and abuse is any kind of sexual activity that you do not agree to, including:
- Inappropriate Touching
- Vaginal, anal or oral penetration
- Sexual intercourse that you say no to
- Rape
- Attempted rape
- Child molestation
Sexual Assault can be verbal, visual, or anything that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual contact or attention. Examples of this are voyeurism (when someone watches private sexual acts), exhibitionism (when someone exposes him/herself in public), incest (sexual contact between family members), and sexual harassment. It can happen in different situations: in the home by someone you know, on a date, or by a stranger in an isolated place.
Rape is a common form of sexual assault. It is committed in many situations — on a date, by a friend or an acquaintance, or when you think you are alone. Educate yourself on "date rape" drugs. They can be slipped into a drink when a victim is not looking. Never leave your drink unattended — no matter where you are. Attackers use date rape drugs to make a person unable to resist assault. These drugs can also cause memory loss so the victim doesn't know what happened.
Rape and sexual assault are never the victims fault — no matter where or how it happens.
What do I do if I have been sexually assaulted?
These are important steps to take right away after and assault:
- Get away from the attacker to a safe place as fast as you can. Then call 911 or the police.
- Call a friend or family member you trust. You can also call your local crisis center or a hotline to talk with an advocate. Human Response Network has an advocate and phone lines available 24/7 (360-748-6601). Feelings of shame, guilt, fear and shock are normal. It is important to talk to someone!
- If you are planning on going to the hospital, do not wash, comb or clean any part of your body. Do not change your clothes if possible, so the hospital staff can collect evidence. Do not touch or change anything at the scene of the assault.
- If you choose to go to the hospital you will need to be examined, treated for any injuries, and screened for possible sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy. The doctor will collect evidence using a rape kit for fibers, hairs, saliva, semen or clothing the attacker may have left behind. An Advocate at Human Response Network can go with you if you like.
While at the hospital:
- If you decide you want to file a police report, you or the hospital staff can call the police from the emergency room.
- Ask the hospital staff to connect you with the local rape crisis center, which would be the Human Response Network. The center staff can help you make choices about reporting the attack and getting help through counseling and support groups.
Who is an advocate?
- A person who has completed 50 hours of core training with a commitment and awareness of the issue.
- Has received special training to work with victims and their families.
- Is someone who has empathy for what you are experiencing and respects your needs.
An Advocate Will:
- Provide victims with emotional support, information, options, and assistance.
- Meet with the victim face to face
- Listen and understand
- Inform the victim of his/her rights.
- Accompany the victim through the medical exam, police interview, and court proceedings if wanted.
- Respect all the victims' decisions and choices concerning the assault.
- Be there so you do not do anything alone, or without support.
Who may request an advocate?
- Past or present victims of rape, child sexual abuse, and other forms of sexual assault including sexual harassment, obscene phone calls, or gestures etc.
- Family members or friends of sexual assault/abuse victims.
- Community professionals who work with victims of sexual assault/abuse and their families.
How can I contact an advocate?
- Call Human Response Network at 360-748-6601.
- Walk into our office at 125 NW Chehalis Ave; 8am - 5pm Mon-Thurs and 8am - 1pm Friday.
- Our crisis line is available 24/7, which is the same number mentioned above.
The Sexual Assault team of Human Response Network is also dedicated to Preventing Sexual Assault. We have many presentations available for schools, churches, other local agencies and PARENTS regarding sexual assault and how to protect your children. If you are interested please contact us and we will be glad to meet that request. Let's prevent this together.