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We can Help - Free, Confidential, 24-hours a day

DVSAS provides free, confidential assistance for survivors of sexual assault, child sexual abuse and sexual harassment, as well as domestic violence victims. DVSAS is a state certified sexual assault program. Our services are based on the principles of advocacy and support. We provide survivors with maximum access to information, options and the total array of resources available to them. Our services are designed to be sensitive to the special needs of victims: confidentiality is crucial; victims are never blamed or judged; validation of the victim's experience is emphasized; empowerment is our goal.

Crisis Intervention

DVSAS, is a state Certified Sexual Assault Program, which offers confidential crisis intervention services for sexual assault victims though a 24-hour crisis hotline. A trained staff member or volunteer responds by returning the call and talking with the caller or by proceeding directly to the Sheriff's Office or Medical Center.

Advocacy Services

At the clinic, the DVSAS counselor, with the victim's permission, stays with her throughout the medical examination, providing emotional support and acting as an advocate on the victim's behalf. For those victims who choose to pursue a criminal justice option, the advocate's job is to make sure that the victim has all the accurate information necessary to make well-informed decision. The advocate will explain procedures, facilitate communication with the sheriff and prosecuting attorney's office in sensitive situations, and provide emotional support to the victim.

Specialized Services

Our counseling services are available at no charge and are accessible through the crisis line or by appointment with the staff counselor. Services for victims of sexual assault and their family members and friends may be provided immediately following an assault or at any later date. For cases where the victim has specific, individual needs, including those of male victims, family and friends, DVSAS maintains volunteers and referral sources with diverse expertise.

Call us, we can help.

It's free and confidential.

Teen Advocate

County-Wide (360) 376-5979

24 Hour Crisis Line

Orcas Island (360) 376-1234

San Juan Island (360) 378-2345

Lopez Island (360) 468-4567

Tell me more:

> About abuse

Key Concepts

• Oppression:  The systematic subjugation of a social group by another social group with access to power.
• Power: The ability to affect the world or change your circumstances.
• Prejudice:  An attitude based on limited information often stereotypes.

Prevention…

• Be aware of when and how you are vulnerable to sexual assault.
• Trust your feelings.
• Be assertive.
• Be aware of support services.
• Become a volunteer or board member with local support agency
• To be silent is to be an accomplice.

In memory of Julie Burgess Ward