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Volunteer Spotlight: Finch Drummond

Each month, the Rape Recovery Center spotlights one of our incredible volunteers to highlight their outstanding service to the center. This week, we are spotlighting Finch Drummond. Finch took the 40 Hour Training in September of 2018, and has quickly brought creative and innovative ways to spread awareness to our community.

Each month, the Rape Recovery Center spotlights one of our incredible volunteers to highlight their outstanding service to the center. This week, we are spotlighting Finch Drummond. Finch took the 40 Hour Training in September of 2018, and has quickly brought creative and innovative ways to spread awareness to our community.

Finch decided to take the RRC’s 40 hour training after a partner and volunteer recommended it. Finch had already been doing a lot of work in the kink and sex positive community in Utah. Growing up, he realized that he had some misconceptions about healthy relationships, and furthermore, that those misconceptions were very common in his community. Finch wanted to explore more of the nuanced factors that contribute to rape culture,and have better conversations about sex and sexuality. Finch adopts a non-shame based approach to talking about sex and sexuality in his work in the community, as well as for the RRC.

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Identifying it as a personal strength, Finch calls himself a carnival barker, claiming, “I don’t really have shame or inhibition of getting people’s attention for a worthy cause”. However, educating on the topic of sexual assault and sexuality isn’t always easy. As Finch has noticed throughout his training and work for the center, and in the community at large, a lot of content about healthy relationships, he says, is not exactly intuitive. Having to break down a “romanticized” or “Disneyafied” conception of relationships can be challenging. Finch has a passion for exploring the grey areas when it comes to consent and healthy relationships, and doing so in fun and creative ways.

In his free time, Finch loves to cook meals like pizza made entirely from scratch. He dabbles in fermenting foods like saurkraut, pickles, and even making ginger mead. Finch is a lover of really good movies, but also enjoys really unintentionally bad movies. He will often be watching cheesy sci-fi monster movies. Finch also enjoys history, and at one point wanted to be a high school teacher.

If you are interested in joining the Rape Recovery Center's volunteer team, visit our volunteer page here to learn more. 

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SAAM 2019: Meet Artist Miriam Flores

The Rape Recovery Center partnered with the Miriam Flores for our 2019 Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) campaign. This years national theme was “I ask” or “Yo Pregunto”. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center announced this theme stating,“ Sexual Assault Awareness Month is about more than awareness — the ultimate goal is prevention.

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The Rape Recovery Center partnered with the Miriam Flores for our 2019 Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) campaign. This years national theme was “I ask” or “Yo Pregunto”. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center announced this theme stating,“ Sexual Assault Awareness Month is about more than awareness — the ultimate goal is prevention…The campaign will champion the power of asking — whether it be asking to hold someone’s hand, for permission to share personal information with others, or if a partner is interested in sex. I Ask is the statement by which individuals will demonstrate that asking for consent is a healthy, normal, and necessary part of everyday interactions. I Ask is the statement by which we will uplift the importance of consent and transform it from being prescriptive to empowering.” We are thrilled to feature Miriam’s interpretration of this theme with her original work this April!

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Miriam is a first-generation Latina college student studying Fine Arts with an emphasis in Graphic Design at the University of Utah. She utilizes art as a way to document and display her experiences and the struggles that other students and families encounter. Her goal is to capture the beautiful moments of resistance and resilience in our communities.


When creating her piece she asked the Rape Recovery Center staff, community members and students what they envisioned when they thought of the theme of I ask/Yo Pregunto. With their feedback she created a design that embodied different identities and the voices of empowerment, respect and love.

To learn more about Miriam and her work, click here. To learn more about our SAAM 2019 events, visit our SAAM page here. Make sure to check back or sign up for our newsletter for SAAM 2019 updates!

Miriam’s - Yo Pregunto Design for the Rape Recovery Center

Miriam’s - Yo Pregunto Design for the Rape Recovery Center

Creating a design for this theme took a lot of thought and at times I found it difficult to express the theme through an image. After reading the responses of different community members I felt connected to the image and saw myself in each individual. It was an inspiring experience creating for this theme.
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Celebrating Our Partnership with Beta Theta Pi

This week the men of Beta Theta Pi dropped off funds raised from their Blue Tie Gala in November. In total this year the Gamma Beta Chapter at the University of Utah raised over $70,000 for our Center! We are so grateful for our partnership with these incredible folks, and excited for the future as we enter another year of partnership.

Members of Beta at the 2018 Blue Tie Gala

Members of Beta at the 2018 Blue Tie Gala

This week the men of Beta Theta Pi dropped off funds raised from their Blue Tie Gala in November. In total this year the Gamma Beta Chapter at the University of Utah raised over $70,000 for our Center! We are so grateful for our partnership with these incredible folks, and excited for the future as we enter another year of partnership.

Members of Beta with RRC Staff at a 2018 educational forum

Members of Beta with RRC Staff at a 2018 educational forum

For over 5 years, the Rape Recovery Center and Gamma Beta have partnered in myriad of ways. As the philanthropic partner for the Fraternity, nearly $200,000 has been raised to support the services of the Rape Recovery Center and hundreds of service hours have been donated to the center by active Beta’s and alumni. In addition to this incredible support, the fraternity has hosted educational forums on campus each year to educate those on Greek row, and the general student population, on the cause and prevention of sexual violence.

This unique partnership has launched important dialogues about how men can engage in sexual violence prevention, and how more meaningful services can be provided to male survivors. The funds raised have been crucial to our center, and have helped us keep up with the wave of survivors bravely coming forward to seek supportive services. Here’s to another year of growth and collaboration!

Members of Beta promoting the Blue Tie Gala on ABC 4, a local news station

Members of Beta promoting the Blue Tie Gala on ABC 4, a local news station

Members of Beta with RRC Executive Director, presenting a check for their 2016 philanthropy.

Members of Beta with RRC Executive Director, presenting a check for their 2016 philanthropy.

Members of Beta with former RRC Executive Director, presenting their first donation in 2014.

Members of Beta with former RRC Executive Director, presenting their first donation in 2014.



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The Rape Recovery Center Turns 45!

As we welcome 2019, we celebrate an important milestone for the Rape Recovery Center - our 45th birthday! Since our founding in 1974, the Center has been a beacon of hope for our community and a space of healing for countless survivors.

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As we welcome 2019, we celebrate an important milestone for the Rape Recovery Center - our 45th birthday! Since our founding in 1974, the center has been a beacon of hope for our community and a space of healing for countless survivors.

Throughout the next year, we will be highlighting the past, present, and future of our center and our role in the movement to end sexual violence. We invite you to celebrate along with us by getting involved in whatever way feels best to you.

Here are 5 ways you can join our 45th birthday party:

  1. Share your own story of connection with the Rape Recovery Center here. We will be collecting and sharing stories all year long!

  2. Follow our events page here , and join us for one of the many celebration events we will be hosting throughout the year.

  3. Become a Partner in Healing, making a monthly donation to support our work and sustain us for the next 45!

  4. Join our incredible team of volunteers, who are critical to our work and success.

  5. Follow @raperecoverycenter on social media, and share our work with your networks.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Ally Warner

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) could not do the work we do without our incredible volunteers. In 2017 the 117 individuals on our volunteer force provided 11,938 hours of service, a value of $143,246! One of the fabulous individuals on our volunteer team is Ally Warner. Learn more about Ally and her work at the center below!

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) could not do the work we do without our incredible volunteers. In 2017 the 117 individuals on our volunteer force provided 11,938 hours of service, a value of $143,246! One of the fabulous individuals on our volunteer team is Ally Warner. Learn more about Ally and her work at the center below!

What motivated you to become a volunteer at the Rape Recovery Center?

The motivation to volunteer for RRC came out of nowhere for me. It felt like all of the sudden I was seeing the impact of sexual assault on college campuses, to young women, and to my friends and family. This issue of sexual assault quickly became important to me, and I knew I wanted to be able to help survivors in whatever way I could and better advocate for them.

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What have you enjoyed most about your time as a RRC volunteer?

The people I have had the opportunity to meet and work with at RRC, and the survivors that I have connected with on the crisis line. There is so much support that comes from RRC, and so many wonderful people there who only want to help others and make sure that you’re the most successful volunteer that you can be. The survivors have taught me so much about myself and caring for others. They are resilient, understanding, and patient. I only hope that I help them as much as they’ve helped me. 

What is most challenging about your volunteer work at the RRC?

The calls where I feel like I haven’t done enough. There are calls where I’m not sure what referral to give, or I’m unsure of what the survivor’s needs are. I feel as though I am not enough, and that I should have done more during that call. When I’m feeling this way I reach out to others from my training or the manager on call for support, and I am reminded how hard this work can be and that I am enough.

Tell us a little more about how you spend your time outside of volunteering for the RRC - hobbies, passions, work, school? 

I work full time as a software developer at the Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute at the University of Utah! Outside of work I love to be outside hiking, rock climbing, skiing, backpacking, road biking, scuba diving, and the list goes on! Being outside as much as I can be is the goal! When I can’t go outside, you can find me at the climbing gym, biking on my trainer, crocheting, cross stitching, reading something epic, cooking, or hanging out with my cat Richard. I also love to travel and try to do it as much as I can!

You have immersed yourself in the very difficult work of addressing sexual violence. What gives you hope as you approach this work? What is your message to others looking to get involved in this work, or considering volunteer work at the RRC?

I find hope in several avenues of this work. Since I’ve been a volunteer at RRC, I find myself in more conversations about sexual assault than ever before. Being able to answer questions and help educate people about sexual assault, consent, rape culture, and other issues gives me hope especially when I receive a positive response. It gives me hope that more people will change their words, actions, and opinions towards sexual assault, and we can move forward together as a society. Another place I find hope is when a survivor tells me that they are doing better, and that they were so glad I was there on the line for them. Even though this work can be difficult, knowing that I can be there and make any process for the survivor easier is enough for me to keep going.

What is your message to others looking to get involved in this work, or considering volunteer work at the RRC? 

Thank you for considering getting involved! There are many different ways that you can help, and all of them are equally significant. Remember that self care is so important and to trust yourself and your emotional limits. Even though this work may be hard at times, you can do it. You are enough!

On behalf of all of us at the Rape Recovery Center we thank Ally for dedicating her time and talents to the center, and for her commitment to survivors! 

If you are interested in joining the Rape Recovery Center's volunteer team, visit our volunteer page here to learn more. 

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Tools for Healing: Self-Compassion

Self-compassion is the skill of directing self-kindness instead of self-judgment. Self-compassion is a soft tone speaking to the parts of us that are most vulnerable. It looks like caring and giving attention to our pain. It is always available, it is unlimited tenderness when we can accept reality as it is rather than ignoring the pain or trying to control outcomes.

Compassion is not some kind of self-improvement project or ideal that we’re trying to live up to. Having compassion starts and ends with having compassion for all those unwanted parts of ourselves. The healing comes from letting there be room for all of this to happen; room for grief, for relief, for misery, for joy.
— Pema Chodron

What is self-compassion?

Self-compassion is the skill of directing self-kindness instead of self-judgment. Self-compassion is a soft tone speaking to the parts of us that are most vulnerable. It looks like caring and giving attention to our pain. It is always available, it is unlimited tenderness when we can accept reality as it is rather than ignoring the pain or trying to control outcomes.

How does compassionate detachment relate to me?

At times we may feel deeply for others and want to support them. Sometimes we want to break our boundaries or become overextended to meet the needs of others. This often leads to a feeling of depletion and comes at a cost to our health. Compassionate detachment is caring for someone while simultaneously caring for ourselves. It looks like recognizing when the suffering of someone is outside of what we have the capacity to support. It requires space to grieve and the ability to hold powerlessness and kindness together.


Tips for practicing:

  • Take self-compassion breaks.

Part of holding self-compassion means allowing there to be pauses of kindness and reflection. When we have self-compassion breaks we are able to be present with self and turn our attention inward. Asking

What am I observing?

What am I feeling (in my body)?

What am I needing right now?

Do I have a request of myself or someone else?

  • Shift the perspective.

In times of stress around the holidays, we may be harsh with ourselves. Using a positive reframe may help refocus the things we have control over and create an awareness of what is good.

Example: Family gatherings will never get better.

Reframe: This is hard, and I’m doing what can right now and that is enough.

Source: mindful.org

Source: mindful.org

  • Practice the R.A.I.N. of self-compassion

R: recognizing what is happening

A: Allow life to be as it is

I: Investigate inner experience with kindness

N: Nurture and non-identification


For more information please visit:

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Partner Spotlight: The Enriching Utah Coalition

The Rape Recovery Center is a proud member of the Enriching Utah Coalition (EUC), a statewide coalition made up of leaders and organizations interested in changing both the policies and perceptions that impact immigrants and refugees, and by extension our community at large.

The Rape Recovery Center is a proud member of the Enriching Utah Coalition (EUC), a statewide coalition made up of leaders and organizations interested in changing both the policies and perceptions that impact immigrants and refugees, and by extension our community at large.

We recognize that immigrant communities are at an increased risk for experiencing sexual violence, and that they are less likely to access critical services to assist with healing and safety. For more information on the intersection between sexual violence and immigration status, visit VAWnet.

​For the past several years, the EUC has provided a place for concerned community members to come together and advocate for the rights of immigrants in Utah. Additionally, they provide direct support to immigrant families in extreme need for social support such as food, shelter, clothing, etc.

The EUC is made up of more than 80 community members and organizations from various sectors, all working together to create a diverse and culturally rich community and a uniform immigration system that respects human rights and human dignity consistent with Utah’s pioneer heritage.

If you are interested in joining the EUC, visit their website for more information about membership. If you’d like to support the work of EUC through a donation, you can attend the Keep Families Together fundraiser on 12/13/2018, or make a donation here.

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Prevention Curriculum for Latinx Youth & Families

The Rape Recovery Center is excited to announce the publication of our “Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud/ Our Families, Our Health” sexual violence prevention curriculum. This project was a labor of love, co-created by our incredible team of educators through funding from the Utah Department of Health. Throughout 2017 and 2018 the Rape Recovery Center partnered with Centro De La Familia De Utah and Talk to a Survivor to pilot a 10 week program at the Glendale Community Learning Center, using the Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud curriculum to guide the programming. Read more about that program here.

The Rape Recovery Center is excited to announce the publication of our “Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud/ Our Families, Our Health” sexual violence prevention curriculum. This project was a labor of love, co-created by our incredible team of educators through funding from the Utah Department of Health. Throughout 2017 and 2018 the Rape Recovery Center partnered with Centro De La Familia De Utah and Talk to a Survivor to pilot a 10 week program at the Glendale Community Learning Center, using the Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud curriculum to guide the programming. Read more about that program here.

View and download the “Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud/ Our Families, Our Health” curriculum in both English and Spanish by clicking the images below.

Click to open “Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud” curriculum in Spanish.

Click to open “Nuestras Familias, Nuestra Salud” curriculum in Spanish.

Click to open “Our Families, Our Health” curriculum in English.

Click to open “Our Families, Our Health” curriculum in English.

Thanks to Olga Hernandez-Favela, Stephany Murguia-Vega & Yajanetsy Ruano who co-wrote the content of the curriculum, with help and support from Alana Kindness (Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault), Angelica Archuleta (Rape Recovery Center), Emma Zevallos (Rape Recovery Center), Vicky Fuentes (Comunidades Unidas), and Yehemy Zavala (Comunidades Unidas).

If you have questions about using this curriculum in your community, please contact Stephany Murguia-Vega, Director of Education and Outreach at the Rape Recovery Center by email at s.murguia@raperecoverycenter.org or by phone at 801-467-7282 ext. 222.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Corinne Galland

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) could not do the work we do without our incredible volunteers. In 2017 the 117 individuals on our volunteer force provided 11,938 hours of service, a value of $143,246! One of the fabulous individuals on our volunteer team is Corinne Galland. Corinne has been a long time volunteer on our crisis line, and is always willing to step in to cover a shift when needed. Learn more about Corinne and her work at the center below!

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) could not do the work we do without our incredible volunteers. In 2017 the 117 individuals on our volunteer force provided 11,938 hours of service, a value of $143,246! One of the fabulous individuals on our volunteer team is Corinne Galland. Corinne has been a long time volunteer on our crisis line, and is always willing to step in to cover a shift when needed. Learn more about Corinne and her work at the center below!

What motivated you to become a volunteer at the Rape Recovery Center?

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I decided to volunteer at the RRC because rape has had a massive impact on many of my loved ones’ lives. I also realized how much of an issue it is in my line of work. I decided that, in order to be a better leader, I needed to know more about rape culture, how to help survivors, and how to become an advocate for them.

What have you enjoyed most about your time as a RRC volunteer?

My favorite aspect of volunteering for the RRC is that moment when it “clicks” for a survivor, and I can tell that I’ve reached them. Any time I manage to calm survivors down or talk them through their trauma, I feel like I’ve truly made a difference in their lives.  

What is most challenging about your volunteer work at the RRC?

Those calls when I don’t know what the survivor will do next. I’ve had calls where survivors are so upset and then they’ll just hang up. It’s also difficult to balance the crisis line with 70 hour work-weeks and the amount of travel I do for my job. Usually I find that I can manage overnight shifts, but I usually get the more traumatic calls at that time. It’s just a matter of having a thick skin and being able to compartmentalize between my everyday work and the crisis line.

Tell us a little more about how you spend your time outside of volunteering for the RRC - hobbies, passions, work, school? 

I work full-time in the Army National Guard, but I also serve and sing in a 1920’s bar on the weekends. I love to cook, shoot, run, cycle, box, swim, lift, and hike. I’ll try any sport at least once, and I love anything to do with the outdoors, particularly back-country camping with my husband.

You have immersed yourself in the very difficult work of addressing sexual violence. What gives you hope as you approach this work? What is your message to others looking to get involved in this work, or considering volunteer work at the RRC?

Honestly, the fact that I’m doing anything to make a difference gives me hope. I know not every call will be successful, and I remember to try to learn from every survivor I help. This work makes me a better person and teaches me new things every day. That perspective motivates me when it gets tough.

What is your message to others looking to get involved in this work, or considering volunteer work at the RRC? 

The fact that you’ve even considered this work sets you apart. Just make sure you stay true to yourself, and know your emotional limits before you dive in; it’ll impact you more than you expect. You’ll have difficult times, but also wonderful times in this field.

On behalf of all of us at the Rape Recovery Center we thank Corinne for dedicating her time and talents to the center, and for her commitment to survivors! 

If you are interested in joining the Rape Recovery Center's volunteer team, visit our volunteer page here to learn more. 

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Self-Care Strategies for Holidays

As the holidays quickly approach, many of us are navigating the complicated dynamics that accompany this time of year.  A common topic of conversation is family, relationships, and how they can impact our self-care, boundaries, and sense of connection. For those of us who have experienced sexual trauma, the effects on our family and relationships can be a significant source of pain and confusion.

As the holidays quickly approach, many of us are navigating the complicated dynamics that accompany this time of year.  A common topic of conversation is family, relationships, and how they can impact our self-care, boundaries, and sense of connection. For those of us who have experienced sexual trauma, the effects on our family and relationships can be a significant source of pain and confusion.

Image source: https://campfire.org/blog/article/self-care-is-far-from-selfish/

Image source: https://campfire.org/blog/article/self-care-is-far-from-selfish/

We compiled a list of considerations in hopes of inspiring you to engage in practices that promote empowerment, radical self-care, and direction during this holiday season. To guide us, we created a list ranging from personal approaches to safety and security along with resources we find important at this time of year.

  • Create a self-care plan as a preventative measure. We invite you to spend time assessing possible distressing events, conversations, or people you may encounter.  Take time to explore each of these possible triggers to focus on what you can do in the moment to reduce stress or care for yourself with healthy coping.

    • TIP: Despite good intentions, creating a self-care plan can cause distress in even thinking about it.  Set aside a time limit to give yourself permission to explore this and then move on.

  • Affirmations and intentions can be helpful in promoting positive self-talk and re-framing challenging thoughts we may have during this time.  

    • TIP: Write quotes, affirmations, or intentions on a note-card that you can easily reference during times when you need support. You can put this note-card in your pocket or a convenient place.

  • Recruit Support. Identify people who you can reach out to. They can be present at the event or made available.

    • TIP: Write out who is on your support list and put the list somewhere that is easily accessible.

    • TIP: Prearrange what your needs are so the person can be prepared to offer support in the way that is more effective for you. An example: “Tomorrow I am going to a family gathering, and would like to reach out by text if I need support. When I feel overwhelmed, it is most helpful to have someone simply validate how I am feeling so I know I am not crazy.”

  • Take Breaks. Set a reminder for when you expect you will need breaks.

    • TIP: Breaks can include excusing yourself to use the restroom, going outside for a walk or reaching out to a supportive person, as well as time to be alone to reflect on what your needs are.

  • Identify resources that are useful to you. Please see below list for supports and resources that we find helpful here at the Rape Recovery Center.

    • Call the RRC Crisis Line: 801.467.7273. We are available 24/7.

    • UNI Crisis Line: 801.587.3000

    • RAINN Hotline:  1-800-656-4673

    • Utah’s 24-hour Sexual Violence Crisis Line: (801) 736-4356

  • These are some articles we found helpful as we also navigate this time of year

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

ELISABETH KüBLER-ROSS



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#GivingTuesday at the RRC!

#GivingTuesday is almost here, and the Rape Recovery Center is hosting a 24-hour fundraising extravaganza to celebrate!

Giving Tuesday Stacked with Date.png

#GivingTuesday is almost here, and the Rape Recovery Center is hosting a 24-hour fundraising extravaganza to celebrate!

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving, fueled by the power of social media and community collaboration. Each year in the U.S., #GivingTuesday follows widely recognized shopping events, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, to remind us the importance of giving back to the causes we care about.

#GivingTuesday is November 27, 2018, and we are asking every individual in this community, to do their part to support the Rape Recovery Center. We have a goal to raise of $10,000 from over 637 donors (the number of individuals who donated to the RRC last year). It is a big goal, but we know we can do it with everyone’s help.


WHAT CAN I DO to Support?

Make a donation on November 27th

Plan to make your tax-deductible donation online, over the phone, or in person at the RRC on November 27th. We are excited to announce this year we’ll be offering “Thank You” gifts to everyone who donates $5 or more on #GivingTuesday!

Tell your Friends! #WhyigivetoRRC

Follow our social media (instagram | facebook) for #GivingTuesday updates. After you donate, be sure to let your friends know you support the RRC by sharing your giving story with #WhyIGiveToRRC.

Ask your network to support US

Share our posts, help us tell our story, and mobilize your circle to get involved. Every dollar makes a difference towards our goal and impacts the lives of survivors in your community.


Thank you Gifts

SWEATSHIRT
$20/MONTH DONATION


LONG SLEEVE T-SHIRT
$15/MONTH DONATION


SHORT SLEEVE POCKET T-SHIRT
$10/MONTH DONATION


MUG
$5/MONTH DONATION


STICKERS
donations over $5


Special thanks to our Education and Outreach Team for the fabulous modeling.

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Rape Recovery Center will Host an EMDR Training this February

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) is excited to announce that we are hosting a HAP-EMDR (Humanitarian Assistance Program - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) training February 15-17th, 2019.  At the RRC EMDR therapy is a core component of the foundational training for our clinicians, given the extensive research and proven effectiveness of EMDR to heal post-traumatic stress.

HAP-EMDR Training Hosted at Hope For Children in Ethiopia.

HAP-EMDR Training Hosted at Hope For Children in Ethiopia.

The Rape Recovery Center (RRC) is excited to announce that we are hosting a HAP-EMDR (Humanitarian Assistance Program - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) training February 15-17th, 2019.  At the RRC EMDR therapy is a core component of the foundational training for our clinicians, given the extensive research and proven effectiveness of EMDR to heal post-traumatic stress. EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy approach where the goal is to process past experiences that are causing ongoing distress. Processing does not just mean talking about it, but to allow these experiences to be fully digested and stored appropriately in the brain.  

For those who chose EMDR as a tool in their healing, they can expect their therapist to help them explore the details of their traumatic memories, including the accompanying emotions, beliefs, and body sensations. As the traumatic memory is processed, many trauma survivors find that they are left with less disturbing emotions, clearer understanding, and perspectives that lead to fuller life with a decrease in post-traumatic symptoms.  For the effectiveness of this treatment, each person’s time and journey is individual and specialized to meet their unique needs.

Clients receiving therapy services at the Rape Recovery Center are able to engage in EMDR therapy, if it is a good fit for their personal healing journey. One of our esteemed therapists, Martha Mendes, CSW wrote about her experience and training in EMDR:

Martha Mendes, CSW - RRC Therapist

Martha Mendes, CSW - RRC Therapist

In order to explain why Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an important tool in the work I do in therapy, I need to talk a little about healing first.  So, what is healing? The meaning of healing is subjective, therefore, it looks different for everybody. The way I commonly see healing is the process of becoming whole again and learning the path to this wholeness since it is not permanent.  When I say whole, I mean connecting to our mind-soul-body in a curious, kind, and compassionate way.

I use EMDR as merely a tool that helps us learn that thoughts, emotions, and body sensations are not permanent.  Through EMDR we not only re-process traumatic memories that are frozen in time in our mind, soul, and body, we also learn to notice thoughts, emotions, and body sensations before we react to them or attach a meaning to it.  Viktor Frankl said "between the stimulus and the response there is a space, and in that space is your power and your freedom" and also your healing path, compassion, wisdom and love. Hence, EMDR is a tool that may assist the activation of our mind, soul and body's power to heal.

I would like to close this comment by bringing attention to the importance of stabilization, resourcing, and increasing positive affect before starting EMDR.  This is the first step into healing and decreases the chances of re-traumatization.


For more information on the EMDR training at the Rape Recovery Center please see the information below:

Location of Training:

Rape Recovery Center

2035 S 1300 E

Salt Lake City, UT  84105


Dates:

Weekend I Dates: February 15-17, 2019

Weekend II Dates: To Be Determined


Cost:

$445.00 per training (fee does not include consultation)


Contact:

Laura Baumgart, LCSW

Phone: 801-467-7282 Ext. 214

E-mail: l.baumgart@raperecoverycenter.org


Registration:

Registration is limited to clinicians who work for non-profit or public sector organizations and graduate-level students who are currently practicing therapy. Please click on the link below to get to our training schedule to register for this event.

https://www.emdrhap.org/content/events/training-schedule/



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Partner Spotlight: Ventanilla de Salud

1 in 3 Latinas and 1 in 4 Latinos will experience sexual violence in their lifetime, through Comunidades Unidas initiative we are able to directly provide consent education to hundred of individuals monthly.

1 in 3 Latinas and 1 in 4 Latinos will experience sexual violence in their lifetime, through Comunidades Unidas initiative, Ventanilla de Salud, we are able to directly provide consent education to hundred of individuals monthly.

Once a week the Rape Recovery Center provides workshops or “charlas” to spanish speaking communities seeking services at the Mexican Consulate of Salt Lake City. This is made possible by the transformational work of the Comunidades Unidas. Comunidades Unidas is a nonprofit organization with the mission of,“ Empowering the Latino Community in Utah to recognize and achieve their own potential and become a positive force for change in the larger community”. Each year Comunidades Unidas provides vital services to thousands of Latino Utah’s in the areas of preventive health, rights, increasing voter turnout and community organizing.

Outreach volunteer giving a workshop at the Ventanilla de Salud.

Outreach volunteer giving a workshop at the Ventanilla de Salud.

This month, through a partnership with the Mexican Consulate’s Latin American Week's of Health and through Comunidades Unidas program Ventanilla de Salud, the Rape Recovery Center will be spending all day today and tomorrow providing spanish speaking communities information about consent and healthy relationships. The Ventanilla de Salud is a unique proram that allows different community partners to reach Latino communities as they seek services from the consulate.

Thank you Ventanilla de Salud for the work you do to help families and end sexual violence in our communities!

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Understanding the Intersections Between Sexual Violence & Domestic Violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. At the Rape Recovery Center, we understand that too often sexual violence is one aspect of the abuse that occurs within a violent relationship. When rape and sexual assault happen within a relationship, it is often more difficult for the survivor to identify and talk about.

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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. At the Rape Recovery Center, we understand that too often sexual violence is one aspect of the abuse that occurs within a violent relationship. When rape and sexual assault happen within a relationship, it is often more difficult for the survivor to identify and talk about. This fact sheet from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence helps us understand the intersections between domestic and sexual violence. The report also provides action steps we can all take to prevent these types of intimate partner abuse, like “Work with local schools, religious youth groups, and other youth-oriented programs to teach about healthy sexuality and healthy relationships.” To learn more about the Rape Recovery Center’s school-based healthy relationship education programming, visit the education and outreach section of our website here.

It if often difficult to know if you are in an abusive relationship. Our partners at the National Domestic Violence Hotline have provided a useful tool to help us identify the difference between healthy relationships, unhealthy relationships, and abusive relationships. Check out the “Relationship Spectrum” below. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you can call 800-897-LINK to speak with an advocate about the resources and support available to you.

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For more information about the resources and support available across the state of Utah, visit our partners at the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition website at udvc.org.

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Volunteer Spotlight: Paola Sepulveda

Each month the Rape Recovery Center spotlights one of our incredible volunteers to highlight for their outstanding service to the center. Our team of over 100 volunteers have given over 6,000 hours in 2018. These hours of service amount to over $72,000 in in-kind donations, and we cannot thank our volunteer enough for their incredible service.

Each month the Rape Recovery Center spotlights one of our incredible volunteers to highlight their outstanding service to the center. Our team of over 100 volunteers have given over 6,000 hours in 2018. These hours of service amount to over $72,000 in in-kind donations, and we cannot thank our volunteers enough for their incredible service.

For the month of October, we are excited to spotlight Paola Sepulveda. Paola completed our volunteer training in May 2018 and has been volunteering with our agency since that time. Paola has worked with our Outreach and Access Team to provide outreach weekly at the Mexican Consulate, where she has provided critical information and resources to this important community. To learn more about Paola, read on.

What motivated you to become a volunteer at the Rape Recovery Center (RRC)?

A good friend told me the RRC was in need of Spanish speaking volunteers so I enrolled in the 40 hour training and loved everything I learned. I became passionate about wanting to work with survivors and advocate for them. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and also make better use of my free time. 

What have you enjoyed most about your time as a RRC volunteer?                   

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Having conversations with people you would have never met otherwise, and [working with the] Latinx community when volunteering at the Mexican Consulate talking about consent and sexual abuse, [which are often] unspoken of and taboo issues.

What is most challenging about your volunteer work at the RRC?

Rejection. When people don't want to inform themselves or even hear you out about rape culture, abuse, domestic violence, mental health, or other serious topics that can only be helped and improved through education and awareness.. it's pretty tough.

Tell us a little more about how you spend your time outside of volunteering for the RRC - hobbies, passions, work, school?  

Preparing to be a mom at the end of this year, love spending time with my spousal unit. I am working on my Bachelor's in Social Work and eventually my Master's and I really just love my dogs (Husky & German Shepherd).  When not pregnant- I love running outside and playing soccer.

You have immersed yourself in the very difficult work of addressing sexual violence. What gives you hope as you approach this work?

The people that don't know but are willing to get educated on the topic and are willing to educate others on their way. That gives me hope. Even the people that just lend an ear and are willing to listen - that gives me hope that there are people that really do care and want to make a difference. 

What is your message to others looking to get involved in this work, or considering volunteer work at the RRC? 

Don't think too hard about wanting to get involved or the "time commitment" because it will throw you off. Honestly don't think twice about it, just do it and you will see how your life changes and has more meaning. You don't know all the good you can do until you get started.

On behalf of all of us at the Rape Recovery Center we thank Paola for dedicating her time and talents to the center, and for her commitment to ending sexual violence! 

If you are interested in joining the Rape Recovery Center's volunteer team, visit our volunteer page here to learn more. 

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Partner Spotlight: Restoring Ancestral Winds

This Indigenous Peoples Day the Rape Recovery Center would like to reflect on the current status of native communities and sexual violence.

Source: Unknown

Source: Unknown

This Indigenous Peoples Day the Rape Recovery Center would like to spotlight Restoring Ancestral Winds a local organization addressing violence in native communities.  According to the National Congress of American Indians:

  • American Indians and Alaskan Natives are at least two times more likely compared with all other races to experience rape or sexual assault.

  • Three out of five American Indian and Alaskan Native women have been sexually assaulted in their lifetimes.

  • One in three Native American women have reported being raped in their lifetimes.

Restoring Ancestral Winds (RAW) has been working to address these staggering statistics since 2014. RAW supports native communities by addressing violence in the Great Basin region of Utah. Their work centers violence prevention, education about healthy relationships, stalking, domestic, sexual, dating and family violence. In addition to their work in educating the community, they serve as advocates for those in their community and committed to honoring and upholding traditional values in their work.In light of these numbers it is important that the #metoo movement work to address these staggering statistics and the violent legacy of colonization. Including, taking part in the national the Missing and Murdered Indigenous campaign has brought this issue to the forefront and seeks to spotlight the invisibility that indigenous victims of violence often face.

Our Outreach Coordinator Megan Asadian had the chance to participate in RAW’s annual conference, Indigenous Womxn Matter, a conference geared towards educating the community about murdered and missing indigenous women. When asked about her experience she said, “ I think what was most impactful for me was to share a space with individuals who had such a strong sense of hope and love for their community. RAW brings the important conversation of missing and murdered indigenous women to the community, while honoring those lives that have been lost or impacted by violence. Holding a space that addressed the emotional hardship associated with violence was an incredibly humbling experience.”

We at the Rape Recovery Center are excited to continue our partnership and solidarity with RAW as they move forward in their work in violence prevention, advocacy, and awareness.

The resilience from pain, the determination to ensure relationships are healed. This is a sacred work, I really believe that, it is healing when you meet people who come out on the other side and whose dedication remains on lifting others. This is the resiliency of human spirit.
— Moroni Benally, Coordinator of Advocacy and Public Policy for Restoring Ancestral Winds
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Interview with Our New Clinical Director

Last month the Rape Recovery Center welcomed Laura Baumgart to our team. Laura has joined the center in the role of Clinical Director, after the position was vacated by Melinda Pettingill. Melinda left our agency after 4 years of service to pursue private practice full-time. We are thrilled to have Laura in this role, and sat down with her to learn more about her background and vision for our clinical services. Read the full interview below!

Last month the Rape Recovery Center welcomed Laura Baumgart to our team. Laura has joined the center in the role of Clinical Director, after the position was vacated by Melinda Pettingill. Melinda left our agency after 4 years of service to pursue private practice full-time. We are thrilled to have Laura in this role, and sat down with her to learn more about her background and vision for our clinical services. Read the full interview below!

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Laura, can you start by telling us a bit about yourself? We’d love to know more about your education, experience, and personal passions.

I am originally from Michigan and moved out to Utah after college at Michigan State University to work in wilderness therapy as a field staff.  During this time, I discovered the power of wilderness as it relates to personal growth, internal reflection, and healing.  I worked in wilderness therapy for three and half years before moving back to the Midwest to pursue a master’s degree in social work at The University of Chicago.

While studying at The University of Chicago, I reconnected with adolescents and young adults as a milieu therapist at a residential treatment center. I  served youth suffering from chronic mental illness, emotional disturbances, and behavioral issues.  I also worked in a program that served and advocated for equal educational rights and services for minority youth in the Chicago area.  During this time, I also interned at a non-profit that served individuals living with HIV/Aids. To maintain my connection with wilderness therapy, during my first summer in Chicago I  began volunteering at an adventure therapy program that served inner city at-risk youth.

After completing my master’s degree in social work, I worked as a psychotherapist at a community mental health agency. I  served individuals experiencing a variety of mental illnesses including schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.  I facilitated numerous psychotherapy groups, including an outpatient Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and a mindfulness-based movement group.  Through a two-year fellowship program, I received extensive training in the treatment of trauma as well as psychodynamic theory and attachment therapy.  I also volunteered with the refugee community in Chicago supporting women who have recently resettled to the US.

The mountains and the wilderness called me back to Utah where I started a family therapy program as part of a wilderness therapy program.  I created an in depth curriculum and provided extensive wilderness retreats for adolescents and young adults and their families. For the past two years, outside of my full-time job, I have volunteered as a therapist for the Refugee Mental Health Initiative and the Trauma Informed Care Network in the counseling department at the University of Utah, becoming a committee member and program developer. As part of this project, I have recruited local therapists to join the program, trained new therapists, and established a working relationship with community members to support the project.  

Laura Baumgart, Rape Recovery Center Clinical Director, in her office at the center.

Laura Baumgart, Rape Recovery Center Clinical Director, in her office at the center.

I am a relational, culturally sensitive therapist who is committed to a therapeutic process that fosters human dignity and honors each individual’s unique path toward personal development. I  bring knowledge and experience in trauma therapy, body-centered psychotherapy, psychodynamic theory, family systems, and mindfulness practices. Since moving back to Utah, much of my training focus has been on creative, expressive ways to engage with the human psyche including movement, expressive arts, and incorporating spirituality into healing practices.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling, running, climbing,  hiking mountains, writing, and art. I am passionate in learning about different cultures, healing practices, and rituals of rites of passage. I also practice yoga, meditation, and body centered healing.  I also enjoy movement and dance focused healing practices.

What drew you to the field of mental health?

At a young age I remember vividly of wanting to support others and be a part of something greater than myself.  I used my voice to engage in conversations about equality and question the viewpoints I was surrounded by at a young age.  It really wasn’t until I worked in wilderness therapy alongside adolescents where I found my gift and my passion of being in a shared healing space with others.  Through the heat, rain, and snow I supported adolescents to see themselves clearly, to see their greatness. This experience was truly transformational for me and provided me with great insight into the lives of others and myself.  Through my diverse work experiences in serving, I have found the greatest gift is cultivating resilience, empowerment, and co-creating a safe, empathic space for healing.  Everyday I am truly grateful for these experiences and honored by the resiliency of humans.

What brought you to the Rape Recovery Center?

The Rape Recovery Center is such an important and needed intentional space in the Salt Lake community.  I felt that RRC was such a perfect fit for my values as a person as well as a place that I will continue to grow as a clinician. I wanted to be a part of a place that is inclusive and revolutionary in the approach to ensure that services are accessible and diverse.  The RRC deeply respects and honors those who have experienced such adversity in their lives and provides a safe space for healing. I have a strong commitment to co-creating an inclusive and relational space for all where voices are heard and respected. I strongly believe that people heal in spaces that allow for authenticity and vulnerability to be present at the core. The Rape Recovery Center is that space, which I am incredibly honored and grateful for being a part of such an important team.

What is your vision for the Clinical Team?

Here at the Rape Recovery Center, we have such a strong, robust, and dedicated clinical team. All of the clinicians have diverse working experiences with an intersectional, multicultural approach in how we best serve our community.  I am excited to continue to grow with the clinical team as we look at how to diversify our services to be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of our community.

As we start this journey together, I want to explore opportunities to connect with partner agencies and focus on more experiential, creative approaches to healing.  This also includes increasing the number and type of therapeutic groups we provide. I hope to add opportunities for our clients to engage in more experiential therapy using experiences in wilderness therapy and expressive arts.  Each person heals differently and as a team I want to diversify our areas of expertise on addition to deepening our foundation in trauma therapy. I am excited to bring a focus of body centered therapy, movement, and expressive arts to the team.

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Laura, and will join us in welcoming her to the Rap Recovery Center! Follow this link if you are interested in learning more about the services our clinical team provides.

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Navigating the Impact of the Supreme Court Hearings

Most of us cannot turn on our choice of media without hearing about the sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Since the 2016 election cycle countless survivors have bravely shared their stories of harm caused by powerful individuals, most of them men, through acts of sexual violence. These stories are so important, and the national conversation they have generated is critical. These conversations have an impact on all of us, and for survivors they are a constant reminder of some of our most painful experiences.

Most of us cannot turn on our choice of media without hearing about the sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Since the 2016 election cycle countless survivors have bravely shared their stories of harm caused by powerful individuals, most of them men, through acts of sexual violence. These stories are so important, and the national conversation they have generated is critical.

These conversations have an impact on all of us, and for survivors they are a constant reminder of some of our most painful experiences. For some, it may stir up memories of experiences that have long been buried. For others, it is another reminder of the trauma that haunts us daily. It is common for post-traumatic stress responses to intensify when we are inundated with these conversations, and for many survivors anxiety and sleepless nights are all too familiar.

If you are finding it difficult to navigate the impact of sexual violence in the news, here are a few tips:

  1. Listen to your body. If you notice you are feeling sick to your stomach while scrolling through your Facebook feed, give yourself permission to disconnect from social media for a bit. Our bodies are wise, and will often tell us when we are getting overwhelmed if we can learn to tune inward.

  2. Validate your feelings. Remember that your feelings are always valid, even if they are different from other survivors or those closest to you. Some of us may feel angry right now, while others may feel deeply sad. Still others may feel energized and empowered. When you notice yourself having an emotional response, give yourself validation by simply naming that feeling and reminding yourself that it is OK to feel it.

  3. Cope in whatever way feels best to you. Right now you may really want to talk about your own experiences of sexual violence with those closest to you. You may also feel like blasting ABBA tunes and not talking about sexual violence at all. There is no hierarchy in coping strategies - whatever works best to help you stay healthy and supported is what is best for you. If you are not sure how to cope, this handout will provide you with more information on post-traumatic stress and how to cope with the impact of it.

  4. Be clear about your boundaries. It is likely that many of your friends and family members are also being impacted by these conversations, and they may want to talk with you about it. They may also want support from you. It is important to get clear with yourself about what your boundaries are and to be clear about those boundaries with others. Boundaries you may want to consider include what you want to talk about, with whom, in what context, etc.

  5. Remember that you are not alone. Identify who your trusted sources of support are. This could include a close friend, an online support group, a therapist, or a local crisis line. Remember, the Rape Recovery Center crisis line is available 24/7 by calling 801-467-7273. Other professional supports include the national sexual assault crisis line provided by RAINN 1-800-656-4673, and the UNI general mental health crisis line 801-587-3000.

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Meet Our Newest Volunteer Class

Three times a year the Rape Recovery Center hosts a volunteer training to prepare new advocates as they join our team. This past Saturday we had a dynamic group of individuals, pictured below, complete this training.

Three times a year the Rape Recovery Center hosts a volunteer training to prepare new advocates as they join our team. This past Saturday we had a dynamic group of individuals, pictured below, complete this training. Over two weeks these folks spent 40 hours learning about crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and the resources/systems survivors will interact with throughout their recovery. Now that they are certified Rape Crisis Counselors, we are thrilled to add these compassionate individuals to our volunteer ranks!

“The training was an incredible opportunity and I learned so much. My main takeaway is to really understand the complexity and nuance of every survivors situation, and to just be their person for that moment. The facilitation was excellent and I feel as though I’ve learned so much about excellent facilitation and teaching.” - Training Participant

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer? Learn more on our volunteer page.

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Partner Spotlight: West Jordan Domestic Violence Coalition

The West Jordan Domestic Violence Coalition aims to serve the areas of West Jordan, Taylorsville, Sandy, and Midvale. The goal of the coalition is to educate the community on the services available to them and to counter the root causes of family and sexual violence. The coalition consists of nonprofits, government, and residents to facilitate these goals. Every month the coalition members learn from each other and collaborate to help keep the city free of violence!

The West Jordan Domestic Violence Coalition aims to serve the areas of West Jordan, Taylorsville, Sandy, and Midvale. The goal of the coalition is to educate the community on the services available to them and to counter the root causes of family and sexual violence. The coalition consists of nonprofits, government, and residents to facilitate these goals. Every month the coalition members learn from each other and collaborate to help keep the city free of violence!

I believe in the work the West Jordan Domestic Violence Coalition does because its community focused and I love being part of a collective working for change. 
— Mary Robinson, Director of Education and Prevention at South Valley Services

This Saturday, the annual Fall Family Festival will take place as part of the coalitions efforts to connect West Jordan Families to resources while having fun. More than 15 non-profits and city agencies will come together to share information with our community. We will provide bounce houses, pumpkin carving, food, and prizes. Please join us for a fun and educational opportunity!


If you are interested in joining this coalition and add your voice we encourage you to reach out to us at maryr@svsutah.org.

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