Who can I speak to for help?
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 advocates that may be available to support you in your community:
There are two kinds of victim advocates you may encounter in your 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 you understand your options
- Emotional support
- Support group, 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 professionals 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
