SAAM activities working to reach as many as possible

The advocates of Family Support Center’s Sexual Assault Program, are bringing an innovative approach to their observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in the Chippewa Valley, this April.

Since 1983, the Family Support Center, which has offices in Chippewa and Eau Claire counties, has provided free and confidential services, to people of all ages and genders, who are affected by domestic and intimate partner violence, sexual assault and child abuse.

“SAAM has, historically, been an opportunity to connect with our communities and make sure more people know about what we have to offer,” said Amanda Schumacher, Sexual Assault Program director at the Center. “But in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic really challenged us to come up with new ways to reach out, especially with so many experiencing increased isolation. We definitely saw a lot of compounded trauma and worked to meet that need in creative ways.”

Whereas last April, planned in-person SAAM programming had to shift, with little notice, to virtual versions or be abandoned altogether, the past year’s lessons are translating into a much more thoughtful and resourceful SAAM in 2021.

“On one hand, we were made aware of the limitations of technology for some populations and have been careful about navigating that,” said Schumacher. “But we have also gotten feedback that online events and ‘teleadvocacy’ can be more accessible for others. So, we’re striving to strike a balance.”

One example of this is the SAAM webinar series, is where advocates will highlight areas of their work that have everyday applications for sexual assault survivors, as well as caring community members who want to learn more.

For more information on SAAM activities, or Family Support Center services, visitFamilySupportCenterCF.com, or call the central office at 715-723-1138.