Many believe that effective sexual violence prevention efforts must address the social conditions that perpetuate sexual violence. Raising awareness and knowledge of what sexual assault is at the individual and community level can lead to identification of the underlying causes that contribute to sexual assault. Engaging communities in identifying the social conditions that contribute to sexual assault can lead to sustained community involvement in addressing these conditions. Funds are provided by contract for local and statewide efforts to prevent sexual assault by increasing community involvement and commitment to social change.
Detail
In 1997, OCVA established a Sexual Assault Prevention Advisory Committee that developed a statewide prevention strategic plan. Based on the strategic plan, the Sexual Assault Prevention Program consists of a three-tiered approach to prevention, including: a statewide media campaign which provides information to increase awareness and challenge attitudes about adolescent sexual assault; community-based projects to implement a community development/social change methodology; and a statewide focused prevention resource center to provide training, technical assistance and information on promising practices in the prevention field. The entire program and all components are part of an ongoing outcome-based evaluation.
Stephanie Condon, Program ManagerOffice of Crime Victims Advocacy (800) 822-1067 Hotline(866) 857-9889 Contractor Line
