Additional resources for victims.
When seeking support or educational resources about sexual abuse, it’s important to know how each tool can provide information that feels best to the unique personal experience of each survivor. Whether you have experienced sexual violence or are looking to support a survivor, it can be helpful to browse the wide array of options available.
Local Resources
The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center provides direct client services as well as education and advocacy. The local organization has multiple locations throughout many counties, and is a comprehensive resource for survivors and supporters alike. Their website is: https://www.clevelandrapecrisis.org/
Male survivors may feel that their experiences with sexual abuse are not accurately represented or spoken about enough. Societal expectations of what it means to be a “real man” and toxic perceptions of masculinity make it difficult for male survivors to feel seen and heard. Men Healing is a key resource for male survivors of sexual abuse. This organization hosts workshops, support groups, posts blogs, and provides many resources for survivors on their website: https://menhealing.org/resources-for-survivors/
A common step in evidence collection after experiencing sexual violence is the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE). Medical professionals are trained in a trauma-informed approach and walk a survivor through each step of the exam. To find a list of hospitals in Northeast Ohio that specialize in SAFE exams, visit this link.
For many, this procedure can feel invasive and bring up complex emotions, especially after a survivor has been violated in many ways. There are many resources designed to provide advocacy during exams. The Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) runs through OhioHealth emergency departments and other local medical facilities. This program provides immediate care to survivors of sexual violence and continued advocacy. Their website is: https://www.ohiohealth.com/community-health/sarnco
Sexual violence has lasting effects that may feel overwhelming at times. Survivors may find themselves feeling isolated and unable to talk to their loved ones about what they are going through. The Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline provides confidential support, 24/7. Trained advocates are available to answer questions, direct callers to local or national resources, and help guide survivors from crisis to approachable next steps. Their website is: https://www.ohiosexualviolencehelpline.com/ and their hotline number is (844) 644-6435.
For survivors who choose to take legal action, the process can feel paralyzing. Reducing costs and seeking trauma-informed advocacy are key in supporting someone through the legal process. The Ohio Crime Victims Justice Center provides free legal assistance to crime victims throughout the state to protect and enforce their rights. Their website is: https://www.ocvjc.org/
Survivors experience unique obstacles throughout their healing journey, and may not be aware of every option available after reporting a crime. The Ohio Attorney General’s Crime Victim Services webpage provides funding and services to aid victims, training for professionals who assist them, grants for victim service providers, and crime prevention programs for Ohio communities. The Attorney General’s website is: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/
State sexual violence coalitions serve as leaders in prevention education and best practices for rape crisis centers. The Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence (OAESV) trains providers and state rape crisis centers through avenues such as technical assistance, systems advocacy, and public policy work. They have a wide range of educational materials and training opportunities for people looking to support someone who has experienced sexual violence. Please note: OAESV is not a rape crisis center and directs those seeking related services to the appropriate resources. Their website is: https://oaesv.org/
Authors: Alexis Kabat and Andy Goldwasser
