This week is Penn State’s annual Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Week. While the annual event places emphasis on the importance of recognizing and responding to this widespread issue, it is important to remember that sexual assault awareness and prevention does not end next Friday when the ‘week of awareness ends.’ Below you will find a list of critical resources for all students at University Park—if you or anyone you know (male or female) is a victim of sexual assault please reach out to the people and organizations detailed here as soon as possible. It is their job to help you.
Please note: If you are in a situation where you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or University Police. The sooner you call for help, the better—no matter where you are or what you are doing, reaching out can and will save a life.
Center for Women Students
According to their website, the Center for Women Students (CWS) “supports students who have been impacted by sexual violence, relationship violence, stalking, harassment, and other campus climate issues.” The center’s website provides further information regarding counseling and crisis intervention, preventive measures, a resource directory and general contact information for the CWS itself.
Penn State Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Hotline
All employees and students are encouraged to contact the university at 1-800-560-1637 to discuss any questions or concerns, as well as submit anonymous reports. The hotline is serviced by operators 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is available at all campuses.
Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response
The Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response is currently located in Boucke at University Park. Paul Apicella, the Title IX Coordinator and his office can be reached at 814-867-0099. Victims can file a report in person in the office, or online. Directions for filing a report can be found here.
University Health Services
University Health Services provides non-emergency medical care, including services for sexual assault victims, regardless of how much time has passed since the incident. Students can contact the UHS clinical services at 814-863-4463 to schedule appointment and speak with medical professionals. However, if less than 96 hours have passed since the incident, students can also call the emergency department services at 814-234-6110. For a more comprehensive description of UHS resources for victims, please visit their website.
Penn State Student Affairs Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
CAPS offers a wide variety of counseling, crisis intervention and psychological services for Penn State students. Their main office, which is located of the fifth floor of the Student Health Center, provides confidential services and resources to assist students with the promotion of their emotional and mental well being. Their primary phone number is 814-863-0395, but they can also be reached through the Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400.
Centre County Women’s Resources Center (CCWRC)
The Centre County Women’s Resource Center is an off-campus resource located at 104 W. Nittany Avenue in State College. They provide a plethora of educational and advocacy information for both female and male survivors, including emergency shelter, counseling, housing, support groups and legal assistance. The CCWRC hotline is staffed by members 24 hours a day and can be reached at either 1-877-234-5050 (toll-free) or 814-234-5050 (locally).
Other Important Information:
Below is a list of other important phone numbers to other services that may be of interest for sexual assault victims. Please be aware that not all of these resources are confidential.
Residence Life: 814-863-1710 LGBTQA
Student Resource Center: 814-863-1248
Nittany Express (Transportation): 814-867-4647
Safe Walk Service: 814-865-WALK or 814-865-9255
Student Conduct Office: 814-863-0342
CanHelp Hotline: 800-643-0395
Email this to everyone your know on campus, share on Facebook, print it out and hang it on the fridge. Be aware of the services not only available to you, but to all of your friends, family and peers. Each of us deserves the opportunity to have an amazing experience at an amazing school and these people are here to help us do that.
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