All people are potential rape victims: male, female, people of any age, race, class, religion, occupation, education or physical description.

The object of having this information is not to raise your anxiety, but to provide you with the knowledge needed to protect yourself.

In the area of self defence, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER, in every sense.

MYTH

Most rapes occur as a spur of the moment act in a dark alley by a stranger

REALITY

Most rapes are planned and often occur in one's own home.
Many times the offender is a relative, friend, neighbor, or other acquaintance of the victim.
A rapist will rape again and again, generally in the same area of town and in the same manner.

MYTH

Only young women are raped

REALITY

Reported rape victims range in age from newborn to late ninties.
Rape is an act of violence to which all adults and children (male and female) are vulnerable.

MYTH

Rape is primarily a sexual crime

REALITY

Rape is a violent assault that is acted out sexually. It violates not only one's personal integrity,
but also one's sense of safety and control over their environment.

MYTH

A rapist is easy to spot in a crowd

REALITY

Most rapist appear normal. Most are married.
They can be of anrace, religin or socio-economic class.
The majority are known by their victims.

MYTH

Women are "asking for it" by their dress or actions

REALITY

Rape is not related to a woman's provocative dress or manner.
Research shows that rapist are looking for availablity,
VULNERABLE targets,
not women who dress in a particular way. No one asks to be hurt or degraded.
The prime motives for rape are pure anger and control.

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL

Society's beliefs about sexual assault are based on myths which point the finger of guilt at the victim.

Re-education is an essential aspect of recovery.
The SARS program offers a confidential, caring environment in which the survivor can safely explore assault issues.

An advocate is available to assist in assessing, establishing priorities, and facilitating appropriate referrals.
In addition, a lending library is maintained for suvivor and community use.