What does it mean to support survivors?
Here at UGA, we take care of our fellow Dawgs. We listen, believe, and support survivors when they disclose to us. Part of that support is referring friends to the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) Office. If you have been impacted by relationship or sexual violence or know someone who has, remember you are never alone. The RSVP Office is here to help.
Located in the University Health Center, RSVP offers a variety of services for those who have been impacted by interpersonal violence. Interpersonal violence is an umbrella term that encompasses all forms of sexual and relationship violence, stalking, and harassment. All of RSVP’s services are unbiased, free, and confidential.
You can even speak with an advocate 24/7 for immediate assistance by calling the RSVP Hotline, at 706-542-SAFE (706-542-7233). This includes overnight, weekends, and even during the summer.
Every Dawg has a role to play in ending violence on our campus. Instead of being on the sideline, do something and help a friend in need, all while maintaining your safety. Together, we can work towards a safe and inclusive community for all Dawgs. Our First Year Odyssey Seminar (FYOS) approved WatchDawgs program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to be an active bystander. Protect Our House, and sign up for a WatchDawg session today!
RSVP also facilitates educational programs such as Healthy Relationships and Consent 101, among others. Professors, student groups, Resident Assistants (RAs), faculty/staff, and community professionals are free to request a program.
If you are interested in ways to get involved with RSVP, consider joining the RSVP Peer Education student group! The student group is dedicated to raising awareness of the prevalence of relationship and sexual violence on college campuses, and creating space for dialogue and prevention efforts. Peer educators seek to educate our campus community through formal presentations, facilitated discussions, informational table booths, and campus-wide events and campaigns. Some of these programs include Sexual Violence Awareness Month Day of Action, Denim Day, Cocoa for Consent, Clothesline Project, and Safe Spring Break.
Personally, I have loved my experience as an RSVP Peer Educator! Having conversations about interpersonal violence can be difficult, but it is necessary. My favorite part is teaching someone something new while I’m tabling! If you are interested in getting involved, reach out to our advisor Allie Halbert, RSVP’s Prevention and Outreach Coordinator, at ahalbert@uhs.uga.edu.
RSVP is a resource available to you at any point in your college career. Please contact us by calling the RSVP office at 706.542.8690 if you’d like to hear more about any of our advocacy or outreach services.
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