Sexual Assault & Family Emgncy

Description

Doris Benefiel, while doing her work as Chief Probation Officer of Fayette County, saw a need for support services for victims of sexual assault and their families. After exploring possibilities, a core group of eight women from various organizations and professions visited the Illinois Coalition against Sexual Assault (ICASA) Office in Springfield. Sexual Assault and Family Emergencies was incorporated in January 1986 as a non-for-profit organization. Monies from various organizations in Fayette County helped with start up expenses. Fayette County Hospital donated a room for an office. ICASA provided the initial 40 hours of training for 25 volunteers in 1986. The 24-hour hotline was started in August 1986. A part-time coordinator was hired in July 1987 to oversee the program. Volunteers were doing numerous education programs in schools for students and teachers. As need for services increased, advocates, counselors and educators were added to the program. Services initially were provided in Fayette and Bond Counties. In 1996, a satellite office was opened in Centralia, covering Washington, Clinton and Marion Counties. An outreach office was opened in Effingham, serving Effingham and Clay Counties in 1997. S.A.F.E.'s primary purpose is to provide healing services to sexual assault victims, families and friends. We encourage vigorous prosecution of assailants and encourage respectful, caring treatment of all victims.

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