Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Honoring the Past and Supporting Survivors in the Present

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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)—a time to raise awareness, challenge harmful myths, and strengthen our shared commitment of preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors. April 2026 also marks the 25th anniversary of SAAM’s national observance, a milestone rooted in decades of advocacy, resilience, and collective action.

Long before SAAM was officially recognized, advocates understood a core truth that still guides us today: awareness and prevention must go hand in hand. It’s impossible to prevent what people don’t understand, and awareness without solutions falls short. From the civil rights movement to the founding of the first rape crisis centers, efforts to end sexual violence have always paired visibility with action.

The roots of this work run deep. Beginning in the 1940s and 1950s, movements for social change challenged silence around gender-based violence. The 1970s expanded survivor support through the creation of rape crisis centers and public actions that called communities to accountability. In the decades that followed, survivors and advocates pushed for national policies and funding—underscoring the need for coordinated, nationwide prevention efforts.

By 2000, advocates unified this work, establishing the teal ribbon as SAAM’s symbol and April as the month of action campaigns focused on visibility. By the mid-2000s, prevention took center stage—addressing schools, workplaces, campuses, and communities with practical strategies to stop harm before it happens. Today, SAAM continues to evolve, engaging broader audiences with tools that promote consent, respect, and bystander intervention.

At Someplace Safe, Sexual Assault Awareness Month is both a reflection and a call forward. We stand with survivors through confidential advocacy, crisis support, safety planning, and pathways to healing. We also invest in education and prevention—because safer communities are built when everyone understands their role in preventing violence.

This April, we invite you to honor the legacy of those who paved the way. Learn the facts. Challenge victim-blaming language. Model and teach consent. Support survivor-centered services. Attend a local awareness event. Together, we can build a future where survivors are believed, supported, and never alone.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, reach out to 800-974-3359.

 

Women’s History Month: Honoring Strength, Resilience, and Advocacy

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Women’s History Month is a time to honor the strength, resilience, and impact of women—past and present—who have shaped our communities through courage, compassion, and perseverance. At Someplace Safe, this month is an opportunity to recognize not only historic progress, but also the everyday bravery that moves individuals and families toward safety and healing.

For many victims of crime, strength is not always visible. It can look like reaching out for help, making difficult decisions, protecting children, or taking the first steps toward healing. These moments matter. Women’s History Month reminds us that history is built not only by well-known figures, but by everyday people who persevere through adversity.

Honoring Survivors and Advocacy

Survivors of crime are a powerful part of women’s history. Their stories reflect resilience and determination, even when the path forward feels uncertain. At Someplace Safe, we are honored to walk alongside survivors as they reclaim their voice, rebuild their sense of safety, and move forward on their own terms.

Advocacy plays a vital role in this journey. Through listening, believing, and supporting those impacted by crime, advocates help survivors navigate systems and access resources that promote dignity, empowerment, and hope. This work is made possible by dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners whose commitment creates lasting impact.

Community Makes Healing Possible

Healing does not happen in isolation. Women’s history is rooted in connection, and survivors are strongest when surrounded by support. Each act of care—whether time, resources, or understanding—helps build safer spaces and brighter futures.

As we honor Women’s History Month, we look ahead with purpose. We invite you to reflect on the women who have shown resilience in your life and join us in supporting a future rooted in safety, compassion, and empowerment.

Teen Dating Violence: Recognizing, Educating, and Supporting Youth

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Each February, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) raises awareness nationwide about dating abuse among youth. This annual month-long campaign focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts.

While teen relationships may look different from adult relationships, abuse can still occur—and it can have lasting emotional and physical impacts. In fact, 1 in 10 high school students faces dating violence. While teen relationships may look different from adult relationships, abuse can still occur and have lasting emotional and physical impacts.

Teen dating violence includes behaviors used to gain power and control over a partner. This may involve emotional or verbal abuse, physical harm, sexual coercion, or digital abuse—such as monitoring social media, demanding passwords, or excessive texting. Not all abuse is physical, and emotional and digital abuse are especially common among teens.

Teens may be more vulnerable because they are still learning about healthy relationships, boundaries, and communication. Unhealthy behaviors are sometimes mistaken for jealousy or caring, which can make them difficult to recognize. Warning signs may include changes in mood or behavior, withdrawal from friends, fear of upsetting a partner, or constant checking of a phone.

Someplace Safe offers youth-specific services designed to meet the unique needs of young people through age-appropriate, trauma-informed support. Trained advocates provide youth-specific services, with an emphasis on off-site service delivery, for teens and youth experiencing:

  • Teen dating violence
  • Family violence
  • Sexual assault
  • Sexual exploitation
  • Bullying or harassment (including online)
  • Cyberstalking
  • Social media bullying
  • Child sexual exploitation materials
  • Other crimes affecting youth

This past year, Someplace Safe provided advocacy, intervention, and prevention services to 61 teens ages 13–19 who were primary victims of crimes including sexual exploitation, child sexual abuse, sex trafficking, child physical abuse or neglect, and related offenses. Of these teens, 58 experienced more than one form of victimization, often involving complex, overlapping, or high-risk circumstances. This underscores the need for accessible, inclusive, and trauma-informed youth advocacy. Nearly one-third of the teens had a cognitive, physical, or mental disability, highlighting how disproportionately vulnerable teens with disabilities are to crime and abuse.

Prevention starts with education. Teaching teens about healthy relationships, consent, and respect helps them recognize red flags and seek help early. Adults and communities play an important role by listening without judgment, taking concerns seriously, and sharing trusted resources. Someplace Safe provides education and presentations for teens and youth, offered in schools, social clubs, faith communities, and other spaces where young people gather. Presentation and educational topics for teens and students in grades 7–12 include Healthy Relationships, Exploitation and Safety for Youth, Cyber Bullying and Online Crimes, Not a #Number, and others. To learn more, visit someplacesafe.info/training-and-education/.

There are also a variety of online resources for teens, parents, and supportive adults. During TDVAM, loveisrespect.org offers extensive information on relationships, boundaries, consent, and more. This year’s theme For TDVAM is: Real Love Respects. The theme focuses on what real love should look and feel like. In a world full of mixed messages, it centers around one truth: respect is non-negotiable. It empowers youth to recognize harmful patterns early and to expect more from relationships.

Teen dating violence is preventable. Through education, open conversations, and community support, we can help young people build healthy, respectful relationships. For help or questions about teen dating violence or youth services, please contact Someplace Safe.

Human Trafficking in Minnesota: Understanding a Hidden Crime

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Human trafficking happens in Minnesota more often than many people realize. It is a hidden crime that impacts individuals and families in both urban and rural communities across the state.

Human trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons by improper means (such as force, abduction, fraud, or coercion) for an improper purpose, including sex or labor trafficking. It does not always look like kidnapping or physical restraint. In many cases, traffickers use manipulation, threats, financial control, or emotional abuse to maintain power over victims.

In Minnesota, sex trafficking is the most commonly reported form, though labor trafficking  and other forms occur. Trafficking can take place in a variety of settings, including private residences, hotels, online spaces, restaurants, agricultural work, and domestic labor. Survivors are often exploited by someone they know or trust – such as a partner, employer, or family member – rather than a stranger. People of all ages, genders, and backgrounds can be affected. Individuals experiencing homelessness, economic instability, or limited support systems, especially youth and marginalized communities, are at increased risk.

Minnesota has made efforts to address human trafficking. Minnesota’s Safe Harbor Law ensures young people who are sexually exploited are treated as victims and survivors, rather than criminals. Through the No Wrong Door model of Safe Harbor, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach ensures that youth can receive trauma-informed support and safe housing through networks of systems partnerships, task forces, and advocacy organizations. Safe Harbor Regional Navigators, such as the one at Someplace Safe, also work to connect youth with services and serve as points of contact and education for their communities.

Someplace Safe provides specialized services for individuals affected by labor trafficking, as well as youth who have experienced or are at risk of sexual exploitation or trafficking. Advocates offer comprehensive, trauma-informed, client-centered support, recognizing the sensitive and complex nature of trafficking. If you or someone you know is experiencing human trafficking or exploitation, Someplace Safe can help. Our trained advocates provide free, confidential, survivor-centered support, safety planning, and connections to resources for individuals and youth affected by trafficking in our communities.

How You Can Help Locally

Community members can also play a role by learning the signs of trafficking and sharing trusted resources with others. Someplace Safe offers a variety of community education and professional training on topics such as:

  • Safe Harbor 101
  • Exploitation and Safety for Children
  • Exploitation and Safety for Adults
  • Not a #Number (youth trafficking and exploitation prevention curriculum)

Visit someplacesafe.info/training-and-education/ to learn more about these opportunities.

Human trafficking is complex, but it is preventable. Through education, community involvement, and compassion, we can work together to create safer communities for all. If you have questions or you would like to learn more about human trafficking locally, please contact:

Someplace Safe Regional Navigator:

Call or Text: 218-739-3486 ext. 557

Email: anne.lr@someplacesafe.info

Youth Sexual Exploitation or Trafficking:
Call or Text: 320-270-5006
Email: youthadvocates@someplacesafe.info

Labor Trafficking:
Call or Text: 320-270-3009
Email: labor.trafficking@someplacesafe.info

 

Your Generosity Helps Survivors Feel Supported, Empowered and Never Alone

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Day after day, Someplace Safe walks alongside victims of crime, offering encouragement, safety, and empowerment as they move toward becoming strong, thriving survivors. Our victim-centered, trauma-informed services ensure every person receives compassionate support tailored to their unique experiences and circumstances.

But this life-changing work is only possible with the help of generous supporters like you. Over the past year, Someplace Safe experienced a 19% increase in community members seeking crime victim advocacy services. In addition, we saw an average of a 32% increase in survivors needing essentials such as emergency housing, meals, household items, and clothing. Your financial support directly fuels our ability to meet these growing needs and provide safety, stability, and hope for victims, survivors, and families across our communities.

This holiday season—and throughout the year—we invite you to stand with local survivors by offering your support.

Donate Online

Giving is simple through our secure donation page at someplacesafe.info/donate. You may make a one-time gift or set up a recurring monthly, quarterly, or annual donation. Gifts may also be designated to a specific program, office, or made in honor or memory of someone special.

Mail or Drop Off a Gift

Donations may be mailed or dropped off at any Someplace Safe office, or sent to:
Someplace Safe
PO Box 815
Fergus Falls, MN 56538-0815
Please make checks payable to Someplace Safe. You may designate your gift to a specific program or location, or in memory of a loved one.

Every act of kindness—large or small—helps strengthen a survivor’s path toward safety, stability, and healing. Your generosity this holiday season builds a community where survivors feel supported, empowered, and never alone.

To explore more ways to give during the holiday season, visit Giving Opportunities at Someplace Safe.

If you or someone you know needs advocacy or support, contact your local advocacy office or call 800-974-3359.

 

Your Support Helps Meet the Increasing Need for Someplace Safe Services

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During this season of thanksgiving, we pause to reflect on the many ways your support has allowed us to continue providing safety, options and hope for those in need. We give thanks for the courage of survivors, the compassion of our supporters, and the strength of our community. Every act of kindness, every donation, every volunteer hour, every shared word of encouragement — helps build strength and healing.

Like many nonprofits, Someplace Safe is navigating uncertain times, with higher costs, growing community needs, and uncertain funding levels. But our agency remains committed, as the demand for Someplace Safe services has increased significantly this past year. Take a look:

  • 27% increase in the amount of survivors accessing emergency housing
  • 24% increase in the length of stay for survivors living in emergency housing
  • 17% increase in the amount of meals provided to survivors and their families
  • 12% increase in the amount of after-hours client crisis calls
  • 51% increase in survivors reaching out to the agency’s text line
  • 53% increase in the amount of clothing, furniture and needed household items Someplace Safe Thrift Stores provided to local survivors of crime, free of charge
  • 29% increase in the amount of clothing, furniture and needed household items Someplace Safe Thrift Stores provided to community members in need through local partner agencies (MNCEP, family services, etc.)
  • 12% increase the amount of professional trainings Someplace Safe provided to law enforcement, family services and other professionals on topics such as Mandated Reporting, Safety and De-escalation, and others
  • 21% increase in the amount of presentations the agency provided to community members and students on topics such as Healthy Relationships, Stalking, Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking, and others, with a 55% increase in audience attendance

As you can see, community needs are increasing. But with your continued support, we can help make sure that no victim of crime has to wait for help. In fact, we can continue to save lives!

We express our deepest appreciation for your unwavering support this past year and ask that you consider kicking off the holiday giving season by bringing safety, healing, and new beginnings to those who need it most. Please consider the giving options below or feel free to reach out with your thoughts and ideas of how you would like to help this holiday season.

For more information and ways to give, please visit someplacesafe.info/giving-opportunities/ or email ashley.z@someplacesafe.info

 

Donate Online

It’s easy to give an online donation or a sustained monthly, quarterly, or annual gift through our donation page at someplacesafe.info/donate/. You may designate your gift to a specific program or office or in memory of a loved one.

Mail or Drop Off

You may drop off or mail your gift to your local Someplace Safe office, or mail to: Someplace Safe, PO Box 815, Fergus Falls, MN 56538-0815. Please make your check payable to Someplace Safe. Gifts may be designated for a specific program/location or in memory of a loved one.

Items for Clients

Someplace Safe offices accept donations of new items for use by local victims and survivors. Items such as full-size personal care items, diapers, and quilts are always needed. Cell phones (in any condition) and cell phone chargers are also accepted. Gently used items can be accepted at Someplace Safe Thrift Stores, located in Alexandria, Fergus Falls and Morris, where the clients receive vouchers for needed items. The stores can accept your donations of gently used clothing, household items, toys, and more!

Holiday Presents

Giving a holiday present provides individuals the chance to receive a gift that you chose specially for them. Ideas for children and teens include: pajamas, board games, toys, gloves, puzzles, drawing tools, learning games, books, and gift cards.

Ideas for adults include: pajamas, socks, slippers, scarves, gloves, journals, lotions, manicure/grooming set, perfume/cologne, or gift cards to online retailers, local merchants, grocery stores or gas stations.

Adopt a Family

This is a great way to help families who are experiencing hardships or may be having a difficult time. Due to the nature of each families’ circumstances, you will be unable to drop off the items directly at their homes. If you, your family, your coworkers, congregation or group would like to adopt a family, please contact Someplace Safe for specific family information (sizes and other details) by emailing ashley.z@someplacesafe.info.

 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: A Community Call to Action

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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time dedicated to shedding light on a critical issue that affects our communities and millions nationwide. While it may not be an often discussed topic of conversation for many, domestic violence is a serious problem that requires our collective attention and effort. This month serves as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in ending the cycle of abuse.

Domestic violence isn’t just physical; it includes emotional, psychological, financial, and digital abuse. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. The statistics tell us that one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. In the most recent fiscal year, Someplace Safe served nearly 3,500 clients in our nine-county service area. Behind every statistic is a real person—a neighbor, a friend, a coworker, or a family member— many struggling in silence.

The ripple effects of domestic violence extend far beyond the individuals directly involved. It impacts children, schools, workplaces, and the overall well-being of our communities. That’s why community involvement is so crucial. When we come together, we create a network of support that can help survivors find safety, healing, and hope.

Local events throughout October are an opportunity to turn awareness into action. On Thursday, October 16th, we invite you to join us for the annual Day of Purple in unity with others across the country to support, pay tribute, and honor friends, family, and community members who have experienced domestic violence. Check out our events calendar for details and information about more events happening in a community near you!

While we look forward to seeing you in community this October, we also remember that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is more than just one-time event. It’s a call to action. By participating in local events and getting involved, we send a clear message that our community stands with survivors. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.

If you or someone you know are in need of advocacy services, contact Someplace Safe at 800-974-3359 or visit www.someplacesafe.info for more information.

 

A Safe Place on Campus: Crime Victim Services

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Starting college is a new and exciting chapter, but it can also be a time of vulnerability. Unfortunately, crimes, including sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and more can happen on college campuses. That’s why it’s so important for students to know about the crime victim services available to them.

What are Crime Victim Services on Campus?

Many colleges and universities have dedicated offices or staff who provide free and confidential support to students who have been victims of crime. These services are often separate from law enforcement, so students can seek help without the pressure of immediately filing a police report.

These services can include:

  • Emotional Support: Providing a safe space to talk, offering counseling referrals, and helping students process their trauma.
  • Safety Planning: Working with students to create a plan to ensure their immediate safety and well-being.
  • Academic and Housing Accommodations: Assisting with things like changing classes or dorm rooms to avoid contact with an offender.
  • Navigating the Justice System: Explaining the university’s disciplinary process and a victim’s rights within the criminal justice system.
  • Referrals: Connecting students with medical care, legal aid, and other community resources.

Why are they so important?

Having a dedicated resource on campus can make all the difference for a student victim. It removes barriers to seeking help and provides a trusted advocate who understands the unique challenges of the university environment. These services help ensure that students can continue their education and thrive, even after experiencing a traumatic event.

Someplace Safe advocates provide a variety of services and resources to local campuses across our service area, in addition to opportunities for training, education, and public awareness. Here are just a few:

Alexandria Technical & Community College:

Someplace Safe provides education to law enforcement students at ATCC on working victims after sexual assault, coordination of care with health professionals (including Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner), and the advocacy response to this crime. The agency also educates law enforcement students on Someplace Safe service delivery, including client-led and trauma informed services.

Someplace Safe displays the agency’s Clothesline Project every October at the ATCC, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

M-State Fergus Falls:

M-State has confidential space on campus for students who need to access an advocate.

University of Minnesota Morris:

The University of Minnesota Morris has confidential space on campus for students who need to access an advocate. Staff also participate in the annual community Welcome Picnic at the UMM campus and the annual spring Bread and Bowls event.

NDSCS:

Someplace Safe staff participate in the annual opening week Community Block Party at the beginning of the academic year. NDSCS hosts an annual Domestic Violence Awareness Event and basketball game, where Someplace Safe staff are able to attend, connect with students and provide information to students, faculty and community members.

 

In addition to the above-mentioned campus activities, outreach and direct service offerings, Someplace Safe also has opportunities for volunteering and student internships. Students interested in volunteering or learning more about college internships can visit someplacesafe.info/get-involved/volunteer-intern/or email volunteers@someplacesafe.info

If you or a friend have been a victim of a crime on campus, remember that you are not alone and that help is available. Take a moment to learn about your school’s victim services and share this information with others, and reach out to Someplace Safe at 800-974-3359. By spreading awareness, we can all contribute to creating a safer and more supportive campus community.

What It Takes to Make a Difference: The Role of an Advocate

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Seeking advocacy services can be an overwhelming and often frightening experience for a victim of crime. Many victims feel isolated and alone, unsure of where to turn for help. They might be dealing with the emotional trauma of the crime, as well as navigating a complex legal system and struggling to find resources for safety and recovery. An advocate’s role is to be a steady guide and a source of support, providing a safe and confidential space for a victim to share their story and explore their options. The journey to healing often starts with this crucial first step of reaching out.

One of our advocates shared this firsthand account of the impact of these crucial services:

“A client came into my office with two small children this past year. The client was fleeing from a domestic abuse relationship involving her spouse. The spouse was not only harming her but also physically abusive to the children. I worked with this client to complete and submit an order for protection on behalf of herself and children. The client put much time and effort into obtaining the order for protection and was so relieved when it went in her favor.

The client and I continued to work closely with social services and law enforcement to assist her with ongoing safety concerns, custody issues, and the overall adjustment to life after abuse. The client on several occasions stated, “I can finally breathe now that my children and I are safe.”

At present, the client is doing well, she has her own apartment, and the children are thriving. She has relocated to a new community, feels safe and confident, and is surrounded by many wonderful supportive family and friends to help her navigate her new life. The client still checks in with me frequently and states how fortunate she was to have a place like Someplace Safe to help her through the darkest times of her life.”

If you or someone you know is in need of advocacy services, contact Someplace Safe 24/7 365 days a year at 800-974-3359. Help is available!

Someplace Safe Thrift Stores: Strengthening Communities Beyond Retail

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Someplace Safe is proud to support community safety not only through our crime victim advocacy services, but also through our network of Thrift Stores—vital community resources offering affordable clothing, home goods, and necessities. More than just retail spaces, these stores serve as powerful tools for healing, empowerment, and public safety.

  1. Funding Victim Support Services
    Revenue generated from our Thrift Stores directly supports Someplace Safe programs, helping survivors access the critical resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. When you shop, donate, or volunteer, you’re contributing to a safer, more supportive region for victims and survivors.
  2. Creating Employment Pathways
    Our stores offer employment opportunities for both survivors and community members, providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. These positions promote financial independence and self-confidence, empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
  3. Building Community Connections
    Thrift Stores serve as welcoming spaces where staff, volunteers, supporters, and survivors connect. Whether through shopping, donating, or volunteering, community members come together to learn, support one another, and break down stigmas—strengthening social bonds and increasing access to help.
  4. Promoting Crime Prevention Through Awareness
    Someplace Safe Thrift Stores raise awareness by hosting events, sharing educational materials, and promoting safety resources. These efforts engage the public in conversations about prevention and advocacy, fostering a more informed and proactive community.

Over the past 15 years, Someplace Safe’s Thrift Stores have become key partners in advancing safety, healing, and resilience. Every purchase, donation, and volunteer hour helps create safer, more compassionate communities.

To learn more, visit www.someplacesafe.info, follow our Thrift Stores on social media, or stop by any of our locations in Alexandria, Fergus Falls, or Morris, Minnesota. We look forward to welcoming you!