There are several sexual assault advocacy and counseling resources available in Colorado to assist survivors in their decision-making process. Take a look at our resource map to find a nearby confidential sexual assault advocacy program and/or some 24/7 help line numbers survivors can call.

There are two kinds of victim advocates survivors may encounter in their journey:

Confidential, Community-Based Victim Advocates

Community-based advocates are professionals who work at sexual assault advocacy centers or domestic violence and sexual assault programs. However, not every community has this type of program. The key services a community-based advocate might offer are:

• Help survivors understand their options
• Emotional support
• Support groups, counseling, therapy services, or referrals to other agencies that provide these services
• Education for the survivor’s loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence
• Survivor assistance with civil legal issues (civil protection order, school-based accommodations, etc.)
• Support for needs outside the criminal justice system, as well as ongoing support after the criminal justice system resolution
• Assistance in applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
• Give survivors information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victim Rights Act (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 24-4.1-301)

Non-Confidential, Systems-Based Victim Advocates

System-based advocates are employed at law enforcement agencies, district attorney’s offices, or other public agencies. They provide:

• Non-confidential advocacy
• Support to law enforcement or the district attorney
• Give survivors information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victim Rights Act (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 24-4.1-301)
• Give survivor information about the case and criminal justice process
• Help in applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
• Referrals for support groups, counseling, and therapy
• Referrals for civil legal issues (civil protection order, school-based accommodations, etc.)
• Emotional support
• Education for the Survivor’s loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence