Every Month Matters: Providing Support for Lake County Victims of Sexual Assault
April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and take meaningful steps toward preventing sexual violence in our communities. But every month matters to victims.
Sexual assault impacts individuals of all ages and backgrounds, often leaving lasting emotional, physical, and psychological effects. While these realities can be difficult to confront, this month is also about hope, ensuring survivors are met with compassion, believed without question, and connected to the resources they need to heal.
At United Way of Lake County, we are proud to invest in programs that provide this critical support close to home. One of these programs is the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s Services for Lake County survivors. Through this their program, local residents have access to free, trauma-informed care right here in our community.
The Cleveland Rape Crisis Center serves survivors of rape and sexual abuse across Northeast Ohio, including Lake County, with a mission centered on healing, prevention, and advocacy. Their services for Lake County survivors program ensures that individuals and families do not have to travel far to receive help. Services are available through their Mentor location and include confidential counseling, crisis intervention, victim advocacy, and community outreach—all at no cost to those who need them.
Mentor Location:
8224 Mentor Avenue, Suite 134
Mentor, OH 44060
Office Phone: (440) 354-7364 | Office Fax: (440) 534-1104
Hours:
Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday: Virtual Appointments Only
Friday: Virtual Appointments Only
Trained advocates walk alongside survivors every step of the way—whether that means providing emotional support, helping them understand their rights, or navigating medical and legal systems. Survivors are empowered to make their own choices, including whether or not to report an assault, and are supported regardless of that decision.
In addition to direct services, the Center also plays a vital role in prevention through education and training. By working with schools, workplaces, and community organizations, they help foster conversations around consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention—key components in building a safer community for everyone.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month reminds us that this work does not end in April. Supporting survivors requires year-round commitment, from funding essential services to simply listening with empathy and without judgment. Because of partnerships like the one between United Way of Lake County and the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, survivors in our community have access to the care and support they deserve.
Together, we can continue to raise awareness, support healing, and work toward a future free from sexual violence.