2019 Victims Advocate Training

SIOUX FALLS, SD, UNITED STATES

Story by Staff Sgt. Jordan Hohenstein

114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

The 114th Fighter Wing of the South Dakota Air National Guard hosted a national victim’s advocate training for Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR).

This is the first time ever that the 114th FW has hosted this class. The training was taught by Emily Rollason, 114th FW Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), and Jasmine Cain, SARC from the 188th Wing in Fort Smith, AR.

“There is a need for victim advocates and there are many guard bases out there that currently do not have any advocates,” explained Rollason, who has been the SARC at the 114th for three years.

This event was open to Air National Guard members nation wide. Only two trainings in the Air National Guard were offered nation wide this fiscal year. This class had 23 representatives from nine different states including the National Guard Bureau Prevention Manager, Lt. Col. Mary Rysavy. Everyone who attended the class volunteered to be there.

Rollason says it is important to have people ready to respond.

“Having these trained advocates out in the field engaging in conversation with their peers and building that climate of mutual respect is critically important,” said Rollason.

To become a volunteer victim advocate one must complete a 40 hour initial victim advocate course, then apply for credentialing through the National Organization Victims Assistance (NOVA). For more information on how to become a victim advocate contact your local SARC.

Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault. Preventing sexual assault is everyone’s duty. The 24/7 crises helpline for the 114th Fighter Wing is 605-212-8481. The Department of Defense Safe Helpline is available 24/7 via text, chat, or call at 1-877-995-5247 or online at www.safehelpline.com.