The Sexual Assault Support
Center of Ottawa
We support all women survivors. This including those from diverse groups, particularly, though not limited to, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, immigrants and refugees, racialized persons, persons from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. SASC Ottawa strives to be a safe space for survivors of all intersections, and we believe a commitment to end gender-based violence is centred in the foundation of anti-oppressive values.
Feminist Based, Anti-Oppressive & Survivor Centred
-The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa
How can we help?
ACESS TO JUSTICE HUB
EVENING TEXT SUPPORT
Last articles
September 10, 2024SASC Ottawa is part of the Women’s Event Network (WEN) that puts on events in the community like The Clothesline Project and The December 6th Vigil. This upcoming event will be Take Back The Night Ottawa on Thursday, September 19th, 2024 from 6-9pm at Minto Park (102 Lewis Street).
Take Back the Night (TBTN) is an annual rally and protest against sexual and gender-based violence. TBTN 2024 is for us to celebrate, support and empower survivors, while creating safer communities and healthier relationships through awareness, activism and advocacy.
Take Back The Night consists of speeches from survivors and community advocates, a rally and march through Downtown Ottawa, followed by an information fair at Ottawa City Hall.
Take Back The Night consists of:
6:00PM: Speeches from survivors and community advocates at Minto Park (ASL & LSQ interpreters available)
6:45PM: Rally & March through Downtown Ottawa (OC Transpo accessibility bus will be available)
8:00-9:00PM: Information fair at Ottawa City Hall (Jean Pigott Hall. 110 Laurier Avenue West, Main Floor)
If you have any questions about TBTN involvement, please reach out to communityevents@wiseottawa.ca [...]
July 16, 2024SASC Ottawa is looking for a Direct Services Coordinator! Do you have a passion for supporting survivors in your community Send your resume to admin@sascottawa.com by Monday, July 29th, 2024
Direct Services Coordinator(7 month Contract)
Summary and Job Description
About the Centre
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa is a survivor directed, non-profit organization providing services to survivors of sexual violence. We support all women: cis or trans, immigrant, Indigenous, LGBTQ2++, women with disabilities, women of color, survivors of war and torture. We believe that a community free of sexual and gender -based violence is possible and we are committed to doing our part to build it. We serve the Ottawa area.
Position Summary
The person in this position will have primary responsibility for offering direct services to survivors, using the feminist, survivor directed, anti oppression peer support framework, in Centre and in the community. They will provide program specific and general outreach services. They will maintain direct services records and they will take the lead in meeting the support work needs identified in all Centre Grants. Detailed duties are outlined in the position job description.
It is therefore essential that the person in this position complete the Centre’s volunteer training and maintain availability to provide, in Centre, one on one support services. In addition, the person in this position will report directly to the Executive Director with respect to all aspects of their employment and collaborate with the staff team in carrying out the Centre’s annual priorities
Essential qualifications
SASC Ottawa volunteer training or successful participation in, and completion of the first available training offered; Computer and Social media literacy; Excellent verbal and written communication; Successful completion of a vulnerable sector check. Completion of a post
secondary diploma OR five years of experience providing direct services using a feminist, survivor directed, anti oppression, intersectional approach (It is the responsibility of the Applicant to provide sufficient details in their application, to support this); knowledge and understanding of the issues facing survivors of sexual violence and gender-based violence.
Assets
Experience providing peer support; understanding of survivor directed feminist perspectives, Group facilitation skills and experience and a Degree or Diploma in a related field, experience co.
Compensation
This position anticipates a 35 hour work week. The compensation ranges from a biweekly gross salary of $1960.00 to $2147.60; depending on experience. A prescription/dental benefits plan is offered for this position, following the successful completion of a three month probation period.
Job Description
This position is a contract position, requiring availability, from August 12th, 2024(or as soon as possible thereafter) to March 31st, 2025.
For the duration of the contract, the Direct Services Coordinator will carry out the following job responsibilities:
Support Work:
Weekly advocacy/accompaniment (flexibility required to provide a minimum of two)
A minimum of 5 (five) weekly spots available for long term individual support
A minimum of 2 (two) weekly spots available for short term individual support
A minimum of 1 (One) crisis Line shift weekly
A minimum of 3 (three) general support groups facilitation/co-facilitation per year (Prorated for the duration of this contract) – e manage wait list, facilitate and choose facilitators, ensure Group training runs once per year and support co-facilitators as needed
1 (one) specialized group in the General Program; i.e manage wait list, facilitate and choose facilitators, ensure Group training runs once per year and support co – facilitators as needed
Additional groups and additional individual support as required by the demands on the Centre from time to time and directed by the Executive Director
Administrative Responsibilities:
Calls, intake and correspondence related to direct services
Direct services policy input
General programs records management
Service delivery Statistics
Program funding Applications (collaboration)
Direct Services Wait list coordination
Group support coordination
Support line coordination
Support line promotion and support line visibility initiatives
Continuous coverage initiatives
Social media updates
Training
Training committee
Direct services training sessions (individual support, support line, advocacy, group support, qualities of a support worker)
Training manual
General household Responsibilities
Day to day household chores shared with other staff
Bi -weekly staff meetings
Twice monthly support work meetings
Keep up to date on community events, resources and relevant issues related to peer support work in the Ottawa area (e.g groups at other Centres, etc)
Community events as directed by the Executive Director
Outreach
Weekly attendance at various locations to deliver program support to survivors
Maintaining partnerships through regular outings with specific service providers (according to the annual priorities set)
Collaboration with other members of the staff team in carrying out outreach activities
Other
Compliance with SASC values, politics, basis of solidarity and policies
Participation in Volunteer appreciation initiatives
Quarterly staff reports and an Annual performance evaluation
Other responsibilities as directed by the Executive Director
This position contemplates a minimum of three days a week, in-person work.
SASC Ottawa is an anti-racist, anti-oppression, feminist organization. We strive to reflect the diversity in our community. We therefore encourage all women and non-binary individuals, including women of colour, transwomen, Indigenous women, LGBTQ2++ and women with disabilities to apply.
Applications will be accepted until July 29th, 2024, 5:00 p.m.
We thank all those who apply, however we will only be contacting candidates selected for an interview
Please address your Resume and cover letter to the Executive Director at admin@sascottawa.com by July 29th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. [...]
June 20, 2024Starting Saturday, August 10th, 2024 , SASC Ottawa will be kicking off our Summer Volunteer training!
PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN:
Anti-Oppression & Feminist Peer Support framework
Support Line, Individual & Group support skills
Opportunity to work in our specialized programs (Young Women Program/ Women & War Program)
Working from a holistic and survivor-centred framework
Grassroots approaches to supporting survivors of GBV
To Apply, email us at training@sascottawa.com or publiceducation@sascottawa.com [...]
June 11, 2024The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa is pleased to announce we are one of the beneficiaries for this year’s Hope Volleyball Summerfest 2024! Join us on Saturday, July 13th at Mooney’s Bay to have fun in the sun and support our organization!
For tickets annd information, visit Hope Volleyball’s official website.
For real time updates, follow us @sascottawa on all platforms.
[...]
June 6, 2024Join us in person this summer for SASC Ottawa’s Drop In Group Series offered in collaboration between our general services and young women program!
When: every other Thursday from 6-8pm Starting June 13th until August 22nd⏰
Where: In person at SASC (address will be given after registration) ????
What: Safe & Confidential space for Sharing and Learning around a different topic each session ☕
Who: all folks 16+ ????
How: Register via emailing directservices@sascottawa.com [...]
May 24, 2024Join us on Monday, June 24th, 2024 from 6:00-9pm for The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa’s Virtual Annual General Meeting.
Join to meet SASC Ottawa’s staff team, board members, members of the corporation and volunteers to highlight the milestones, accomplishments and achievements from our 2023-24 year.
For more information, please reach us at info@sascottawa.com [...]
May 22, 2024The Clothesline Project began in October 1990 in Hyannis, Massachusetts, and has since spread globally as a powerful symbol in the fight against gender-based violence. This initiative allows survivors of sexual violence to express their emotions, healing process, and courageous words for others to see.
By decorating T-shirts, we honour both survivors of violence and those who have tragically lost their lives. These shirts are hung on a clothesline, creating a powerful visual testimony about the pervasiveness and severity of gender-based violence right here in Ottawa.
This year, our event is about more than raising awareness—it’s about celebrating the resilience of survivors and, most importantly, calling for the liberation every person is worthy of. We invite you to be part of this empowering movement.
Join us on Saturday, May 25, from 10 am—2 pm at Minto Park (102 Lewis Street), filled with yoga, painting, music, bubbles, and more. We will use artmaking as a tool to amplify our calls to end violence.
How will you contribute to ending gender-based violence? Come and be part of the change! [...]
May 7, 2024Starting Wednesday May 29th, 2024 , SASC Ottawa will be holding a 10-week in person support group for survivors of gender-based and sexual violence.
Where: In Person (SASC’s centre)
When: Wednesday, May 29th, 2024 from 6-8pm for 10 weeks
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
March 11, 2024Join us on Friday, April 26th to celebrate The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) 40th anniversary! This event is an evening of celebration and recognition of the legacy of SASC Ottawa’s community work. Learn more about SASC Ottawa’s presence in the community, history, meet the folks through the years that made SASC Ottawa and learn how to support SASC Ottawa.
Learn how to become a donor, participate in our silent auction and meet the changemakers of SASC Ottawa!
Where: All Saints Event Space (330 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON K1N 6P9)
When: Friday, April 26th, 2024 fom 6-9pm
Tickets on sale now at Eventbrite. [...]
February 29, 2024The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) would like to thank Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF)
for providing Our organization, with a $60,000 Capital grant over 12 months, this grant will address a community need by repaving our driveway and making accessibility enhancements to our facility for survivors of gender-based violence and youth survivors.
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa is committed to preserving this space and ensuring that it remains accessible for many community activities over the course of the year.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations, celebrates 40 years of grantmaking in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested nearly $209M into 2,042 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Visit otf.ca to learn more. [...]
February 29, 2024This International Women’s Day, SASC Ottawa will be supporting Chorus of Courage, a live event highlighting the stories and voices of survivors through musical performance and poetry. The event centers indigenous artists and survivors healing and we’re honored to support this event!
When: Friday, March 8th, 2024 at 8:00PM
Where: National Arts Centre (NAC) on 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5W1
Tickets: ticket link
ASL interpretation will be available and a @sascottawa support worker on site for folks looking for support. [...]
February 26, 2024
SASC Ottawa is looking for new board members! Apply Now!
Description
Established in 1983, the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) provides survivor directed peer-support services by women (including cis women, trans women and non-binary people) to women, who have experienced sexual and gender-based violence. SASC is committed to approaching our work with survivors from a feminist, intersectional, anti-oppression, and anti-violence perspective. SASC is currently looking for board members with diverse life experiences and identities to fill current vacancies. We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring the following skills or expertise to our board table:
• Fundraising
• Finance
• Governance
SASC invites applicants who possess any of above skills or experience, and who have an interest in the mission of SASC to apply. Diversifying the Board to ensure that it is reflective of the different communities that SASC serves will be given special consideration.
To apply, please send us your resume and 1 page motivation letter in one document outlining your interest in SASC and the relevant skills, qualifications and experiences to Nomination Committee Chair at board@sascottawa.com with the subject line ‘SASC BOARD APPLICATION_applicant last name’. We are accepting applications on a rolling basis until April 8, 2024.
Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC)
Board Member – Job Description
The Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC) is an incorporated non-profit organization and registered charity. The Board of Directors comprises the body that is legally responsible for the governance of the organization. Within this mandate, the Board is charged with the responsibility to collectively develop, implement and monitor policies that will allow SASC to carry out its work as a survivor-directed and survivor-led organization based on feminist and anti-oppression principles.
Responsibilities
Contribute consistently and meaningfully to the effective performance of the Board by:
• Preparing for and attending at least six Board Meetings per year
• Understanding the role of the Board and of SASC Management
• Demonstrating commitment to SASC’s organizational values
• Applying skills, knowledge and creativity
• Working candidly, collaboratively, respectfully and efficiently with colleagues
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Supporting Board decisions once they are made
• Respecting fiduciary obligations, which means:
o Acting honestly and in good faith with a view to the best interests of the corporation; and,
o Exercising the care, diligence and skill that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances.
• Participating actively on at least one Board Committee (Nominating Committee, Policy Committee, Finance Committee)
Qualifications
• Demonstration of commitment to, and support for, survivor-directed support services and/or ending gender-based violence
• Commitment to exercise accountability to the membership of SASC
• Commitment to carry out all work associated with SASC in anti-oppressive framework
• Commitment to participate in SASC-led anti-oppression board governance training
• Term length for each Board Member is 3 years, renewable 2 times, to a maximum length of service of 9 years
For more information, visit volunteerottawa,or contact board@sascottawa.com
Application Deadline: April 8th, 2024 [...]
February 16, 2024Starting Monday, March 4th 2024 , SASC Ottawa will be holding a 10-week in person support group for survivors of Ritual Abuse
What is Ritual Abuse?
Ritual abuse is most commonly repetitive abuse, which can be multi & inter-generational
Ritual abuse usually involves repeated abuse over an extended period of time, including physical, emotional, psychological and sexual trauma
Where: In Person
When: Monday, March 4th – Monday, May 6th 2024 – 10 weeks
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
December 8, 2023Starting Wednesday January 24th, 2024 , SASC Ottawa will be holding a 12-week in person support group for survivors of childhood sexual violence.
Where: In Person
When: Wednesday, January 24th, 2024 from 6-8pm for 12 weeks
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
December 8, 2023
Starting Thursday, January 25th, 2024 , SASC Ottawa will be holding a 12-week virtual general support group for survivors.
Where: Virtual (Zoom)
When: Thursday, January 25th, 2024 from 6-8pm for 12 weeks
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
October 6, 2023In collaboration with Telus, The Telus Friendly Future Foundation and SASC Ottawa’s Young Women Program, is a new podcast Young Women Empowerment Podcast Project: Voices Must Be Heard.
This podcast series is for survivors to express their voices, to tell their survivors stories, and to share their thoughts and experiences in order to help other young survivors reclaim their voices and to give insight to service provided to provide better support.
Premieres Friday October 13th, 2023. New Episodes every Friday.
To Listen:
Spotify
Apple Podcast
And anywhere you find podcasts!
For more information, please follow us at @sascottawa or @sascyoungwomenprogram for real time updates and episodes.
[...]
September 12, 2023Starting September 28th, SASC Ottawa will be holding a 11-week virtual Zoom support group for survivors of sexual violence.
Where: Virtual (Zoom)
When: Thursday, September 28th – December 7th 2023 from 6-8pm
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this virtual support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
September 12, 2023Starting September 27th, SASC Ottawa will be holding a 11-week general support group for survivors of sexual violence.
Where: In person (SASC Ottawa’s Centre)
When: Wednesday, September 27th – December 6th 2023 from 6-8pm
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
September 12, 2023Take Back the Night (TBTN) is an annual rally and protest against sexual and gender-based violence. The community comes together to celebrate, support and empower survivors, while creating safer communities and healthier relationships through awareness, activism and advocacy.
#TBTN2023 Ottawa will start with a rally in Minto Park (102 Lewis St) on 6pm. The march will start at 6:45 through Downtown Ottawa and end with an Info fair at Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Ave W)
An accessible bus and ASL/LSQ interpreters will be available, so we welcome everyone to join us! [...]
August 21, 2023
Call for Speakers – Take Back the Night (Ottawa)
Thursday, September 21, 2023 is the 45th anniversary of Take Back the Night (TBTN), an event advocating for safer communities and calling for an end to sexual violence. This year’s event starts with a rally at Ottawa City Hall (Jean Piggot Place), followed by a march through the streets of downtown Ottawa. It concludes with an Information Fair at City Hall, featuring tabling from various community-serving organizations.
TBTN is dedicated to raising the voices of diverse experiences and perspectives. We are looking for English and French speakers who can deliver engaging messages and progressive insights on sexual and gender-based violence and the urgency of reclaiming a sense of safety and autonomy in our streets and communities. Each speaker will have five minutes on stage.
If you are interested in being one of our speakers, contact WEN at communityevents@wiseottawa.ca no later than the end of the day on Thursday, August 31, 2023.
Please provide the proposed subject of your speech and let us know if you have spoken at TBTN before. An honorarium will be provided to each speaker selected.
We highly encourage women and non-binary individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Due to the anticipated volume of interest, all submissions will be reviewed but only those selected to speak will be contacted.
We look forward to hearing from you! [...]
August 3, 2023
SASC Ottawa is looking for a Young Women Program! Do you have a passion for supporting survivors in your community Send your resume to admin@sascottawa.com by August 9th, 2023
Young Women Program Coordinator – Summary and Job Description
About the Centre
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa is a survivor directed, non-profit organization providing services to survivors of sexual violence. We believe that a community free of sexual and gender -based violence is possible and we are committed to doing our part to build it. We serve the Ottawa area.
Position Summary
The Young Women Program is one of SASC Ottawa’s specialized programs, providing specialized services to young survivors of sexual violence and their families.
The person in this position will have primary responsibility for Outreach & Public Education, Individual and Group Support, Advocacy & Accompaniments and all program grant related services. They will provide all services to survivors, using the feminist, anti oppression, survivor directed, peer support framework. They will maintain Program records and collaborate with the rest of the staff team and with volunteers, in meeting the support work needs identified in all Centre Grants. Detailed duties are outlined in the position job description.
It is therefore essential that the person in this position complete the Centre’s volunteer training. In addition, the person in this position will report directly to the Executive Director with respect to all aspects of their job description and collaborate with the staff team in carrying out the Centre’s annual priorities.
There is a possibility of renewal at the end of the contract.
Essential qualifications
SASC Ottawa volunteer training (or successful participation in the first available training offered, after hiring); Computer and social media literacy; Excellent verbal and written communication; Successful completion of a vulnerable sector check. Completion of a post secondary diploma OR three years of experience providing survivor directed support services using a feminist, survivor directed, anti oppression, intersectional approach (It is the responsibility of the Applicant to provide sufficient details in their application, to support this); knowledge and understanding of the issues facing young survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Compensation
This position anticipates a 35 hour work week. The compensation is a biweekly gross salary of $2016. There are no extended benefits offered for the duration of this contract.
Job Title and Description
The Employee will be employed by SASC Ottawa as the Young Women Program Coordinator from August 14th, 2023 to March 31st, 2024, to carry out the following responsibilities:
Outreach and Public Education
Provide outreach and public education to specifically identified communities of young women, around women’s rights and issues faced by marginalized young women and young women at risk for coming in conflict with the justice system.
Maintain awareness and sensitivity to the issues of marginalized young women and young women at risk (hitherto referred to as Young Women), for coming in conflict with the justice system and their families.
Seek out and promote educational activities and effective advocacy in the subject matter that affect marginalized young women.
Maintain an active knowledge of and list of community providers, of available services for marginalized young women.
Develop and deliver training programs and awareness campaigns related to topics of interest to young women, including legal and health topics and public awareness of young women’s issues, human rights and community development.
Provide home visits with young women who are isolated or cannot leave their homes because of fear, physical condition or child care issues (as a last resort and under the supervision of the SASC Ottawa Accessibility Officer).
Advocate for clients with social services, affordable housing and other basic needs where they do not have other supports available to use.
Provide information about resources available in the community, based on the women’s identified needs e.g to navigate the medical and legal and socio cultural systems.
Actively participate on behalf of the Employer and as directed by the Employer in local initiatives related to young women’s rights and justice.
Build and maintain networks with diverse communities and community partner agencies.
Develop and facilitate the preparation of memorandums/letters of understanding between SASC and partnering agencies
Maintain current and historical program documentation in an accessible format and location for use by the Centre.
Develop and maintain existing partnerships and provide services as needed by the Program and the Centre based on the priorities identified in discussion with the Executive Director.
Individual and group Support
Minimum three hours per week of weekly spots available for individual support
Telephone support as needed as often as calls come in to cell phone provided for the work
Crisis calls and referrals as they occur
Provide education and maintain contacts with individuals and organizations with specialized information such as doctors, lawyers and other specialities as part of providing individual support
Two or more groups for a total of 10 weeks each, during the year for the YWP and be available for one additional group in the general program
Maintain availability for such other direct services as may be necessary to meet the needs of SASC Ottawa service users
Advocacy and Accompaniment –
Provide advocacy around young women’s rights and gender-based discrimination, to various institutions in the community.
Maintain ongoing availability to take on legal advocacy and accompaniment as the need arises within the YWP.
Grants;
– As outlined in various funding Agreements
Quarterly and Year-end Reports
– Prepare and submit detailed quarterly reports on project accomplishments, according to a workplan established annually.
– During the contract year, address service gaps and improve Program capacity
– Identify and maintain long and shorter term partnerships for ongoing Program related work according to the demands of the Program
General Responsibilities (required by all full time workers):
Take on and complete agreed upon household chores.
Keep up to date on community resources and relevant issues and bring them forward at staff and volunteer meetings.
Participate as an active team member by maintaining close contact with co-workers, providing support and attending scheduled staff meetings.
Remain a member of the Organization in good standing (without unresolved accountability issues and up to date vulnerable sector checks)
Participate in shared responsibilities of staff and members as agreed to from time to time at staff meetings or as assigned by the Executive Director
Report directly to the Executive Director with respect to all employment related activities.
Be accountable for open and timely communication. Follow up, acknowledge receipt of correspondences, confirm understanding of decisions, and communicate concerns regarding your workload, before it becomes overwhelming.
Keep records of and complete appropriate reports (quarterly Statistics and Staff Reports )for all work activities and bring these to the Executive Director on a quarterly basis or when requested
Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
Support Work (required of all full time workers with individual Program variations):
Minimum of two weekly spots available for individual support.
Minimum of one support line shift per month.
Co-facilitate a minimum of one 10-15 week support group per year, as discussed with Direct Service Coordinator.
Take on two legal advocacy and accompaniment clients per year.
Initiate and/or participate in outreach and fundraising activities.
This position contemplates in-person work.
SASC Ottawa strives to reflect the diversity in our community. We therefore encourage all women and non-binary individuals, including women of colour, transwomen, Indigenous women, LGBTQ2++ and women with disabilities to apply.
Applications will be accepted until August 9th, 2023, 12:00 p.m.
We thank all those who apply, however we will only be contacting candidates selected for an interview
Please address your Resume and cover letter to the Executive Director at admin@sascottawa.com by August 9th, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. [...]
June 15, 2023The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) is proud to announce the launch of “Access to Justice,” a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing the way survivors of sexual assault access support services. This comprehensive hub offers survivors a streamlined and efficient pathway to multiple services, minimizing the vetting process, expanding options, and supporting their overall healing journey. Access to Justice serves as a pivotal resource in dismantling barriers and providing survivors with a centralized platform to navigate the vast array of services available.
Survivors of sexual assault often face numerous barriers when seeking justice and support due to a lack of accessible information. According to Statistics Canada, 1 in 3 women will experience some form of sexual assault in her lifetime, yet fewer than 1 in 10 survivors report these incidents to the police. Institutional and cultural barriers further hinder survivors’ access to crucial services. Recognizing the urgent need for a solution, SASC has developed the Access to Justice hub to tackle these challenges head-on.
Taking a survivor-directed approach allows survivors to address their unique needs and regain control of their healing journey. By utilizing keywords, tags, or categories, survivors can easily search for the specific services they require. The innovative “Add to My Personal Resources” feature enables survivors to curate their access to justice support plan, ensuring they have a comprehensive list of services at their fingertips. This user-friendly platform equips survivors with the necessary tools to navigate the system and access vital support.
“This Access to Justice Hub was informed by the real barriers and gaps survivors face in the pursuit of healing and moving forward. We are proud to say this hub is a comprehensive tool for survivors to regain the agency to create a pathway for justice that reflects their needs” says Amina Doreh, the Public Education & Media Coordinator of The Sexual Assault Support Center of Ottawa
Survivors can conveniently access the Access to Justice hub by visiting SASC’s official website at https://sascottawa.com. The hub offers a user-friendly interface where survivors can discover an extensive range of services and compile their personalized resource list. Once completed, survivors have the flexibility to download, save, print, or email their resource list, enabling them to take proactive steps towards accessing the vital services they need.
For more information about the Access to Justice hub and to access this invaluable resource, please visit www.sascottawa.com/access-to-justice-hub [...]
June 8, 2023
Starting Thursday July 6th, SASC Ottawa’s Women & War Program will be having a weekly Art Group for newcomer, immigrant & refugee survivors.
At SASC, we believe art is an important tool for healing and empowerment.
When: Weekly on Thursday’s from July 6th – August 31st, 2023
Where: SASC Ottawa’s Centre
To Register, contact Roya at 613-799-0650 or womenandwar@sascottawa.com for more details [...]
May 17, 2023
Join us on Monday, June 26th from 6:00-9pm for The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa’s Virtual Annual General Meeting.
Join to meet SASC Ottawa’s staff team, board members, members of the corporation and volunteers to highlight the milestones, accomplishments and achievements from our 2022-23 year.
To Register, please scan the QR code on the poster or register manually via Zoom.
For more information, please reach us at info@sascottawa.com [...]
April 7, 2023Starting May 2nd, SASC Ottawa will be holding a 12-week general support group for survivors of sexual violence.
Where: In person
When: May 2nd – July 18th, Tuesdays 6 -9pm
If you or someone you know would be interested in attending this support group, please contact directservices@sascottawa.com or give us a call at 613-857-0197. [...]
April 3, 2023Starting Saturday, May 6th, 2023, SASC Ottawa will be kicking off our Spring Volunteer training!
PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN:
Anti-Oppression & Feminist Peer Support framework
Support Line, Individual & Group support skills
Opportunity to work in our specialized programs (Young Womyn Program/ Women & War Program)
Working from a holistic and survivor-centred framework
Grassroots approaches to supporting survivors of GBV
To Apply, email us at training@sascottawa.com or publiceducation@sascottawa.com [...]
March 17, 2023Ritual for Survivors Join Megan Campbell @megancampbell.yoga and Young Women Project @sascyoungwomenprogram at @pureyogaottawa for an in-person, trauma conscious RITUAL class that will offer survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking a safe place to move and breathe, connect to their inner strength, and reclaim their power.
When: Sunday, March 26th, 2023 at 10am-11:30pm
Where: Pure Yoga Ottawa (71 Bank Street)
@ritualbypure is a movement practice that combines pilates, cardio, plyo + isometrics, and is paired with an intentionally curated playlist and ambiance. While impactful on many levels, it also speaks to and invites all bodies to move in ways that restore balance, enhance strength, while facilitating the space for creative expression and cathartic release.
Peer-support will be available during class.
Snacks and juice generously donated by @purekitchenottawa will be enjoyed together after class to connect with like-minded community
No experience is required.
This class is open to anyone 16+ and is a private, closed-group event for survivors.
Registration is FREE and required. You can secure a spot by emailing ywpc@sascottawa.com [...]
March 15, 2023Description
Established in 1983, the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) provides survivor directed peer-support services by women (including cis women, trans women and non-binary people) to women, who have experienced sexual and gender-based violence. SASC is committed to approaching our work with survivors from a feminist, intersectional, anti-oppression, and anti-violence perspective. SASC is currently looking for board members with diverse life experiences and identities to fill current vacancies. We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring the following skills or expertise to our board table:
• Audit or Accounting
• Board governance
SASC invites applicants who possess any of above skills or experience, and who have an interest in the mission of SASC to apply. Diversifying the Board to ensure that it is reflective of the different communities that SASC serves will be given special consideration.
To apply, please send us your resume and 1 page motivation letter in one document outlining your interest in SASC and the relevant skills, qualifications and experiences to Nomination Committee Chair at board@sascottawa.com with the subject line ‘SASC BOARD APPLICATION_applicant last name’. We are accepting applications on a rolling basis until April 24, 2023.
Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC)
Board Member – Job Description
The Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC) is an incorporated non-profit organization and registered charity. The Board of Directors comprises the body that is legally responsible for the governance of the organization. Within this mandate, the Board is charged with the responsibility to collectively develop, implement and monitor policies that will allow SASC to carry out its work as a survivor-directed and survivor-led organization based on feminist and anti-oppression principles.
Responsibilities
Contribute consistently and meaningfully to the effective performance of the Board by:
• Preparing for and attending at least six Board Meetings per year
• Understanding the role of the Board and of SASC Management
• Demonstrating commitment to SASC’s organizational values
• Applying skills, knowledge and creativity
• Working candidly, collaboratively, respectfully and efficiently with colleagues
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Supporting Board decisions once they are made
• Respecting fiduciary obligations, which means:
o Acting honestly and in good faith with a view to the best interests of the corporation; and,
o Exercising the care, diligence and skill that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in comparable circumstances.
• Participating actively on at least one Board Committee (Nominating Committee, Policy Committee, Finance Committee)
Qualifications
• Demonstration of commitment to, and support for, survivor-directed support services and/or ending gender-based violence
• Commitment to exercise accountability to the membership of SASC
• Commitment to carry out all work associated with SASC in anti-oppressive framework
• Commitment to participate in SASC-led anti-oppression board governance training
• Term length for each Board Member is 3 years, renewable 2 times, to a maximum length of service of 9 years
Volunteer Types: Accounting and Finance, Board Leadership, Governance (Boards, Committees)
Organization types: Community and Social Services, Women
Ongoing (more than a year)
For more information, visit volunteerottawa, charity village or contact board@sascottawa.com
Application Deadline: April 24, 2023 [...]
February 20, 2023
This International Women’s Day (March 8th), The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) are honouring survivors within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) community. Join us for information sessions, guest speakers and a night of celebration!
This event is free and open to the community! We will have info tables, guest performance, food/drinks and a space to celebrate survivors that have accessed our specialized CAF community services.
Date: Wednesday, March 8th, 2023 from 6-9pm
Where: St Louis Bar & Grill (399 Elgin Street)
Tickets: free and can register on Eventbrite
Performance by Dominique Gorley
For more information, please contact publiceducation@sascottawa.com directly and follow @sascottawa on all platforms for real time updates.
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) provides a peer support services for the Canadian Armed Forces Community (CAF civilians, employees and DND members & Veterans) that have experienced sexual and gender-based violence.
For more information on support and services for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Community, click here
[...]
February 20, 2023Ottawa, ON – On Tuesday, The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) reintroduced its remodelled space and recognized the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Thanks to a Resilient Communities grant of $150,000 from OTF, the SASC Ottawa was able to revamp and expand its group support space to enhance accessibility and ensure more opportunities to support survivors in the Ottawa community.
“The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa’s support and advocacy for women, trans and non-binary people who have experienced sexual violence is incredibly important. I am thrilled to see them receive the Resilient Communities Fund grant so that they can continue to support our community post-COVID,” said Joel Harden, MPP for Ottawa Centre.
In addition to the expansion of the group space, accessibility upgrades included the addition of an updated ramp at the accessibility entrance and modifications to ensure safety and support. The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa group space is used for a variety of community needs including volunteer meetings and trainings, celebrations, and peer support services. Thanks to the funds from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, people of all abilities are now able to access the building.
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant has helped us improve our group support space to ensure that survivors in the community get the help they need,” said Amina Doreh, Public Education & Media Coordinator at The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa. “This grant has allowed needed renovations to be made. Our group support space is completely accessible and we can now accommodate everyone with mobility issues and serve our community better. We also want to congratulate the Ontario Trillium Foundation on 40 years of granting and building healthy and vibrant communities across the province.”
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa is committed to preserving this space and ensuring that it remains accessible for many community activities over the course of the year. If you wish to enquire about using the space for your meeting or hosting an event, please visit the website at: www.sascottawa.com
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations, celebrates 40 years of grantmaking in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested nearly $209M into 2,042 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund.
Visit otf.ca to learn more.
The Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa would like to Thank Ontario Trillium Foundation For supporting our work and opportunity to revamp the space for survivors in our community. [...]
