New grant funding increases LGBTQ+ outreach and services
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — RISE is proud to announce the launch of its latest public awareness campaign, bringing awareness of RISE services to survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence in the LGBTQ+ community as well as its expanded case management services and LGBTQ+ support group.
Funded by a $3,000 grant from the Growing Together Initiative Fund of The Community Foundation, in the last year RISE has expanded services for LGBTQ+ survivors. RISE provides individual case management services to assist clients in developing plans for increased independence and success. RISE offers a “Cultivating Healthy & Safe LGBT Relationships” support group at the GALA Center. In the last year, the group provided 200 hours of support and healing for LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence.
This June and July for Pride Month, RISE has a billboard on US Route 101 north of San Luis Obispo, and will be distributing brochures about healthy relationships and local resources for the LGBTQ+ community. RISE will also be hosting a booth at the SLO Pride in the Plaza event on July 8th.
According to the US Office for Victims of Crime and FORGE, 1 in 2 people who are transgender will experience sexual assault in their lifetime. Further, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center has stated that “in the absence of accessible LGBTQ affirming services, victims may encounter barriers to post-assault services due to homophobia and transphobia.”
“We hope this campaign will help LGBTQ+ community members in our County to feel more comfortable and safe seeking RISE services,” said Jane Pomeroy, RISE Associate Director. “RISE has many excellent programs that can be used by LGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced sexual assault and intimate partner violence, and we want to make sure they know they are welcome here.”