SACIS CRISIS HOTLINE- Catherine Cordell
1) I volunteer for Eastern Illinois University's Sexual Assault Counseling & Information Service (better known as SACIS) as one of their crisis hotline councilors. I volunteer a few nights a week and on some weekends starting 6pm to 8am. I use my own phone and a dispatcher will call my cell when I have phone call on the hotline to protect my phone number. The hotline is available to anyone 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week.
2)SACIS provides services to victims of sexual assault, sexual abuse, and
sexual harassment as well as support services for family members. These
services include counseling, advocacy, information and referrals. SACIS reflects FCS in manner of providing services to individuals, families and the community. In class this semester we covered a topic about disadvantage and sexual abuse including sexual assault. This organization provides services to this specific group of people.
3) I networked with a lot of people through this organization. I built stronger relationships with Eastern Illinois University police department, and learned they are sometimes the survivors biggest advocates. I also networked with the SACIS educator and learned about going out into the community and providing presentations to the elementary school about good touch vs bad touch, and the high school students in regards to what a healthy relationship is. I also networked with the legal and medical advocate, learning there is an entire support team available for people.
4) SACIS is an asset to our community because sometimes bad things happen and people are not sure where or who to turn to. SACIS is ready and available to help survivors and families through the difficult process if they decide to press charges, but are also there if they decide not to. The think I love the most about SACIS is they empower people and let them know they will support a persons decision no matter what. SACIS is a valuable resource because they are not just there for the crisis, but afterwards for as long as a person needs them.
5) There is a reason I continue to volunteer for SACIS, and its because they matter to people. Even if I don't get a phone call, I feel like at least I'm here if someone needs me. Due to confidentiality I can not disclose anything from my phone calls, but I can say I'm glad I am here. Some of the story's are heart breaking, but these people need to talk and they need someone to listen. I am proud to say I volunteer for SACIS
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