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New violence prevention program provides confidential support and resources

Drake University’s Office for Sexual Violence Response and Healthy Relationship Promotion has partnered with Crisis Intervention Services in Oskaloosa to create a new program on Drake’s campus.

Violence Intervention Partner (VIP) was created to assist Drake University students with confidential, compassionate, and informed sexual response support 24 hours a day during the academic year. The VIP program will also serve as a resource for faculty and staff.

Services include 24-hour phone support, information and resources, immediate crisis response, advocacy at an exam site, and assistance with safety planning, to develop self-empowerment and personal safety options for support both formally and informally to a survivor of sexual violence.

VIP is unique in that it is a student-run program. VIP advocates have the opportunity to work collaboratively as a team member in multiple professional settings; develop awareness and active participation in community systems responses; obtain specialized professional credentials in the field of social services; develop a sense of personal growth and development through knowledge of social justice issues related to gender violence; and understand the importance of civic engagement and the impact of working with others who have different life experiences.

Drake is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment in which all members of the community can thrive and reach their full potential. VIP will serve to develop, support, and enhance creative prevention and effective intervention initiatives.

Call or text 515-512-2972 to access a VIP peer advocate for confidential support or consultation.

For more information, contact Alysa Mozak at alysa.mozak@drake.edu or 515-271-4141.