CONNECTBeauty of Survival Project- Empowering Survivors of Sexual Assault
Voices Beyond Assault would like the support in providing resources and a safe space for survivors of sexual assault. We want to create an environment where survivors can unwind from stress, fear, anxiety, hopelessness, and any other ailments that effect them due to sexual trauma. A space of peace and calm, that increases their self-esteem, self confidence while they are healing. We are also excited to have the support to create programs and events that assist in thriving. We also request support of our one of a kind survival retreats.
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Central LA
County of Los Angeles
City of Los Angeles
LAUSD (please select only if you have a district-wide partnership or project)
In what stage of innovation is this project?
Pilot project or new program
What is the need you’re responding to?
The latest reports in the City of Los Angeles from Jan 1–June 30, 2019, there were 468 reported rapes. These numbers likely don’t reflect the total incidents, rape is one of the most underreported crimes. Nationwide, only about one quarter of rapes are reported, meaning about 75% of rapes and sexual assaults are not reported to the police. Issues of sexual violence are linked to some of our most prevalent social problems including addictions, mental illness, sexual exploitation, medical problems, self-harm, suicide, parenting challenges, poverty, homelessness and domestic violence. In other words, sexual violence is a serious public health issue. Having direct access to information, support, therapy and therapeutic activities can positively change lives. Every survivor deserves the chance to resolve their internal trauma and restore their future progression. VBA plans to be readily available to assist with this need. Our programs will empower and encourage survivors to heal and thrive.
Why is this project important to the work of your organization?
This project is important to the work of our organization because by educating individuals of the community about sexual assault can surely decrease the amount of sexual violence within the City of Los Angeles. Providing the resources necessary if abuse/sexual assault happens it will encourage survivors to either report the crime and/or start a journey to heal from the trauma. By having to safe environments where we can have therapy, meditation, yoga, conversation sessions, writing experiences, etc. will create self confidence, self awareness and hope for survivors. Our Survival Retreats are survival celebration and a healing experience like no other. The healing process for survivors starts with a space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. VBA is an organization that knows first hand what sexual violence and the effects of sexual trauma look like. Our Founder was brutally raped and kidnapped so the passion behind out work is notable. We are dedicated to seeing change!
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this proposal?
Direct Impact: 300
Indirect Impact: 3,000
Please describe the broader impact of your proposal.
Addressing sexual violence will require action and input across government ministries and a collaborative, coordinated approach ensuring that the political, social and economic issues related to sexual violence are included in government policies and practices.
A coordinated multidisciplinary approach is essential to ensure that every survivor is able to access a full continuum of responsive, effective sexual violence services and support systems across their life span if needed. Programs and services must be continuously evaluated and ongoing sexual violence research is essential to ensure that current practices are always up to standard. The survivors within Los Angeles will be able to be a healthy, active members within the community.
Please explain how you will define and measure success for your project.
Our organization has a clear mission: to provide aid, education, resources and therapeutic methods to survivors of sexual assault/abuse. We want nothing more to provide survivors with the tools necessary to heal and thrive.
Our success is obtaining sponsors, donors and the LA2050 grant so we can develop the capacity to provide rapid, appropriate and effective response and services to every survivor who that contacts us.
Creating a culture of awareness, education, prevention and zero tolerance on sexual assault/abuse.
Building the confidence of survivors within the city of Los Angeles.
To address this critical area of need and have the ability to expand our services
To ultimately reduce the likelihood of sexual assault
Our vision of success it to provide services that will empower an army of survivors to stand strong and firm in their survival. That each survivor that comes through our organization feels compelled to empower and encourage other survivors who are living in silence to come forth and heal.
Which of the CONNECT metrics will your submission impact?
Social and emotional support
Public arts and cultural events
Are there any other LA2050 goal categories that your proposal will impact?
LA is the best place to LEARN
LA is the best place to CREATE
LA is the healthiest place to LIVE
Which of LA2050’s resources will be of the most value to you?
Access to the LA2050 community
Host public events or gatherings
Communications support
Office space for meetings, events, or for staff
Capacity, including staff
Strategy assistance and implementation