It can be confusing and overwhelming to decide on what to do next. However, there are several sexual assault advocacy and counseling resources available for you in Colorado. You can take a look at our resource map to find a confidential sexual assault advocacy program near you and/or some 24/7 help line numbers you 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 group, counseling, therapy services, or referrals to other agencies that provide these services
- Education for survivors’ loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence
- Assistance with civil legal issues (civil protection order, school-based accommodations, etc.)
- Support for needs outside the criminal legal system, as well as ongoing support after the criminal legal system resolution
- Assistance with applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
- Give survivors information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victim Rights Act (C.R.S. § 24-4.1-301)
Non-Confidential, Systems-Based Victim Advocates
System-based advocates are professionals employed at law enforcement agencies, district attorney’s offices, or other government 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 (C.R.S. § 24-4.1-301)
- Give survivor information about the case and criminal legal 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 survivors’ loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence
