Who can I speak to for help?

There are several sexual assault advocacy and counseling resources available to you in Colorado to assist you in your decision-making process. Take a look at our Colorado 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 you may encounter in your 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:

Source for confidential advocacy
Provide emotional support and trauma-informed response
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
Assistance in applying for Colorado Crime Victim Compensation
Give victims information about their rights and resources under Colorado Victims’ 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 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
Assistance 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.)
Provide emotional support and trauma-informed response
Education for the victim’s loved ones regarding the effects of sexual violence