Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Resources and Support for Survivors
Every April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) brings national attention to sexual violence, survivor support, and prevention efforts. April 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of SAAM, with a theme of “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward.”
Why Sexual Assault Awareness Month Matters
Sexual violence remains a significant public health issue. Data from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center shows that:
- 1 in 5 women in the United States has experienced completed or attempted rape during her lifetime.
- Nearly a quarter of men report some form of contact sexual violence during their lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4 in 5 female rape survivors reported their first assault before age 25, and many experienced it before turning 18.
These statistics represent real people—neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members.
Understanding Sexual Violence
Sexual violence goes beyond physical assault and includes any sexual activity that occurs without clear, freely given consent. It can occur in person, online, or through technology. Research shows that most perpetrators are not strangers. Among juvenile victims whose cases reached law enforcement, 93% knew the perpetrator—59% were acquaintances, 34% were family members, and only 7% were strangers.
Understanding the Impact
Survivors often face long-term emotional, mental, and social challenges, including:
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress
- Anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties
- Changes in relationships and trust
- Physical health challenges
- Financial and legal stress
The Sexual Assault Response Center estimates that more than 443,000 people age 12 and older experience sexual violence each year. Survivors don’t have to face these challenges alone.
Local Help, Available Around the Clock
Bright Future Foundation offers the Victim First Care program, which is funded by philanthropy. The program provides comprehensive care for assault survivors right here in Eagle County, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Victim First Care provides Sexual Assault Nurse Examinations and Forensic Nurse Examinations (SANE/FNE) performed by specially trained registered nurses and nurse practitioners. The program also includes confidential advocacy services, no-cost behavioral health services, on-site advocate support during exams, post-assault follow-up, and transportation options.
The program serves survivors of:
- Sexual assault
- Intimate partner violence and domestic violence
- Strangulation
- Elderly violence, with or without sexual contact
- Human trafficking
- Assault in captivity
A Bright Future Foundation advocate is on-site during exams and provides follow-up support and connection to behavioral health resources in the valley.
Know Your Reporting Options
In Colorado, survivors have three options when obtaining a medical forensic exam:
- Law Enforcement Report — You choose to obtain a forensic exam and participate in the criminal justice system at that time.
- Medical Report — You obtain a forensic exam but choose not to participate in the criminal justice system. Evidence is released to law enforcement with your identifying information. You can choose to have evidence tested.
- Anonymous Report — You obtain a forensic exam but choose not to participate in the criminal justice system. Evidence is released to law enforcement without your identifying information. You are consenting to the storage of evidence only.
You do not have to report to law enforcement to receive care.
How to Reach Help
If you or a loved one has experienced assault or abuse:
- Victim First Care Hotline: 970-422-3202
- Bright Future Foundation (advocacy and housing support): 970-949-7086
- Victims under 18: Contact Child Protective Services at 844-264-5437
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673) or RAINN.org/hotline
How to Support a Survivor
When someone discloses sexual assault, your response matters. Many survivors fear they won’t be believed. Start by saying “I believe you.” Affirm that what happened was not their fault. Let them know you’re there to help in whatever way they need.
Avoid questions like “Why didn’t you fight back?” or “What were you wearing?”—these can make survivors feel responsible for what happened to them. Never pressure a survivor to report to law enforcement.
Recovery is not linear. Survivors may revisit trauma months or years later. Checking in periodically—even with a simple message—can make a real difference.
You’re Not Alone
For 25 years, SAAM has called attention to the reality that sexual violence affects every community. Here in Eagle County, Vail Health’s investment in Victim First Care means that survivors have access to expert medical care, forensic services, advocacy, and behavioral health support—regardless of whether they choose to report.
If you or someone you know needs support, free and confidential help is available now. Call 970-422-3202.
