Importance of Rape Crisis and Recovery Center Advocates

Advocates work as trauma-informed staff or volunteers for the 17 Rape Crisis and Recovery Centers that are member programs of the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA). These individuals advocate for the best interests of survivors through immediate crisis intervention, and provide ongoing support to survivors and their loved ones. Their experience, specialized training, and access to MCASA member program resources allow them to address a wide range of survivor needs.

Advocates can support survivors with various needs, including:

  • Initial crisis intervention via hotline services;
  • Understanding the trauma of sexual assault;
  • Understanding the legal process;
  • Accompaniment and emotional support for survivors during a sexual assault forensic exam (SAFE);
  • Follow-up crisis intervention and on-going counseling;
  • Application for victim compensation;
  • Providing resources for financial stability.

Advocate Resources