Community Education
Sexual and Domestic Violence is often wrongly viewed as an individual, family or sexual issue; however, the community’s understanding and knowledge of the issues can lead to more accountability from employers, the justice system,schools and government. The Community Education Program provides outreach and education and individuals learn how each of us plays a role in the process of ending sexual and domestic violence.
Trainings and Presentations
Professional trainings for first responders and health care workers, education for professionals on how to recognize, report and respond to suspected sexual or domestic violence.
SafePlace staff and trained volunteers work to increase community understanding of sexual and domestic violence by providing presentations to civic and professional groups, schools, private organizations, parents and loved ones of survivors, and other interested groups.
Public Awareness Campaigns & Events
SafePlace public awareness campaigns and events educate the community on sexual and domestic violence issues, give a voice to all survivors and encourage individuals within the community to serve as courageous advocates for survivors to help end violence where it begins. A complete listing of upcoming public awareness events and community fundraisers can be found on our events calendar.
Denim Day
During Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month in April, SafePlace invites employers and employees in the Austin area to wear jeans to work to support survivors of rape and sexual assault and begin discussions about the myths and realities surrounding these issues. In 2009, more than 500 people participated in the event.
Celebrating the Survivor Spirit
One evening each fall, is dedicated to the resiliency of survivors of sexual violence. The goal of Celebrating the Survivor Spirit is to provide survivors and their allies an opportunity to come forward, meet and hear from each other and begin forming a community of survivors in the healing process.
Help Cut Out Sexual Assault
African-American hair stylists are reaching out to members of their community to break the silence around sexual assault and encourage survivors to seek support. In 2007, the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault recognized the the campaign as its Innovative Program of the Year.We thank our partners: African Braids by Paulette, Ambient Tresses (Sherri Freeman), Ann’s Private Cuts, Avenue Five Institute, Black Hair Unlimited, Classy Lady Beauty Salon, Gabrielle’s Salon and Spa, Gloria’s Hair Boutique, HCS Salon & Spa, InfiniD’s Salon, Jackson Ruiz Salon Spa, Jarika’s Reflextions Hair Design, Jenissa Beauty Academy, Minnie’s Beauty Salon, Omar’s Full Service Salon, The 7th Salon and The Comfort Zone.
Past Campaigns & Events
A New Dawn; Building Healthy Families and Communities
In 2008, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, SafePlace hosted an evening for Latino community members to come together to learn from neighbors and friends while supporting each other in building healthy relationships, families and a stronger community.
Watch Your Drink
In 2000, the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault recognized the SafePlace Watch Your Drink Campaign as its Innovative Program of the Year. The program focused on education about the dangers of drinks being drugged by an offender.
Community Fairs
SafePlace employees and trained volunteers are available to staff booths at a variety of events such as school or job fairs where the community is invited to learn about resources and available in our community.
Materials
SafePlace creates and distributes brochures about the dynamics of sexual and domestic violence and our service offerings. These are available for public display at businesses, doctor’s offices and wherever community members would like to share information. Large quantities can be ordered for a business or organization to display.