Local events are being planned for Washtenaw County residents. The Ann Arbor City Council will issue a proclamation declaring April as Rape Awareness Month and will honor the contribution made by the Assault Crisis Center, Washtenaw County's rape crisis program. The Night Rally and March where women gather to celebrate their strength and safety in numbers. Sexual violence in this country continues to cause damage and suffering for thousands of women, children and men. Experts estimate that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 7 males will be sexually violated by their 18th birthday.
Unresolved trauma prevents individuals from leading full and productive lives.
The Assault Crisis Center, a program of Washtenaw County Community Mental Health, has provided free and confidential assistance to rape victims, their family members and friends since 1976. Services include a 24-hour hotline, counseling, assistance with hospitals and police departments, court accompaniment, information and referrals. The Center also works with local professionals to help them better serve rape victims. No one deserves to suffer in silence. Community Health Board Anticipated Planning has been underway since 1996 for a partnership between the University of Michigan Health System and Washtenaw County Community Mental Health and Public Health Departments.