Rape Trauma Services

A Call to Action
RTS is launching its first Community Involvement Campaign to engage our community in becoming more proactive against sexual violence.

Most victims of sexual assault do not receive help; many do not even know that help is available to them. The goal of the campaign is to increase community awareness about the problem of sexual violence and to be sure that all members of our community know about, and have access to, our services.

Sexual abuse affects everyone in some way, and we want our entire community to know that help is available. Newly designed posters and brochures with the message: "Finding your voice can help you heal. Take the first step. Call." will be distributed throughout San Mateo County to help get the word out about our services. Campaign bookmarks with the same message are being handed out to every student at RTS violence prevention presentations in our community's schools.

Provider Collaboration
The largest part of the campaign is a grassroots organizing effort designed to engage local community groups in being proactive about/against sexual violence. RTS will work together with over one hundred community and social service organizations throughout San Mateo County. We'll meet with each organization individually to discuss and implement ways of increasing awareness about the problem of sexual violence in our community, challenging belief systems which support rape and violence, and collaborating to form a cohesive community approach to sexual violence. RTS will educate providers about our services and encourage them to refer clients when appropriate. We know that together we can create a safer, more supportive community for us all.

Community Recognition
As a community leader in victim services and violence prevention, RTS was recognized by the Criminal Justice Council of San Mateo County for its "Outstanding Contribution in Criminal Justice." Executive Director Cindy Brandon said the choice was an easy one, "As the only rape services organization serving the needs of San Mateo County's population of more than 700,000, RTS truly deserves to be recognized for the vital services it provides for our community."