Who Can I Refer a Survivor To For Help?
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 Colorado 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 often work at sexual assault advocacy centers or dual domestic violence and sexual assault programs. Not every community has this type of program, however. Key services a community-based advocate might offer are:
- Confidential advocacy
- Give victims information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victims’ Rights Act (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 24-4.1-301)
- Support group, counseling, therapy services or referrals to other agencies that provide these services
- Education for the victim’s loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence
- Victim 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
- Provide emotional support and trauma-informed response
- Assistance in applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
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 and district attorneys
- Give victims information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victims’ Rights Act (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 24-4.1-301)
- Give victims information about the case and criminal justice process
- Referrals for support groups, counseling, and therapy, or referrals to other agencies that provide these services
- Assistance in applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
- Education for the victim’s loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence
- Referrals for civil legal issues (civil protection order, school-based accommodations, etc.)
- Provide emotional support and trauma-informed response
