Background Statement
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY OF S.A.R.A., INC.
S.A.R.A., Inc. was developed in 2007 to assist in the investigative process of child sexual abuse cases and support of adult sexual assault victims and victims of childhood molestation. It was founded to provide a child/family-friendly, safe and neutral environment where police detectives, social workers, mental health therapists and medical professionals can talk with victims and family members in surroundings that lessen the anxiety and re-victimization by system response teams. Children and teens who have been sexually or physically abused can tell their stories, undergo a comprehensive medical exam and receive victim advocacy services in a safe, respectful environment as they begin their healing process.
S.A.R.A., Inc. is the only rape crisis/child advocacy center in the Thirteenth Judicial District, State of Colorado. Nonprofit 501(c)3 tax status was obtained April 2007.
Until S.A.R.A., Inc. was established, law enforcement and the department of human services performed forensic interviews. In 2009 a part-time Forensic Interviewer and SANE Coordinator were hired. Services were expanded and the number of victims served continues to increase yearly. With the purchase of a photocolposcope with grant funds from the VAWA Stimulus Funds and United Way of Morgan County, S.A.R.A., Inc. began providing medical exams in November 2009. S.A.R.A., Inc. is the only center in the Thirteenth Judicial District area providing pediatric forensic medical exams. S.A.R.A., Inc. contracts with Morgan County Sexual Assault Examiner (SAE) to provide medical exams.
Who S.A.R.A. Inc. Serves
S.A.R.A., Inc. serves children and teens who are suspected of being sexually, physically or emotionally abused, those who may be victims of neglect, and witnesses to violence/crime. Ages served are from approximately age 2 (able to communicate) up to age 18, as well as developmentally disabled adults. Cases must be referred by law enforcement or social services and S.A.R.A., Inc. primarily serves victims in the Thirteenth Judicial District, State of Colorado. Other jurisdictions are served, as needed. Adult victims of sexual assault and childhood molestation may receive assistance with reporting, medical forensic examinations, trauma-focused therapy, and on-going support.
Program Services
• Forensic Interviews
The Forensic Interviewer conducts investigative interviews of children suspected of being sexually, physically or emotionally abused, in collaboration with law enforcement, social services and the District Attorney's office.
• Family/Victim Support Services
Victim/Family Support Advocates provide direct services, support and referrals for children and families receiving services at S.A.R.A., Inc. throughout the investigative and court process.
• Medical Services
A Sexual Assault Examiner (SAE) provides physical examinations, treatment and referrals for treatment and evidence collection for children who are suspected of being sexually, physically and/or emotionally abused and adult victims of sexual assault and childhood molestation.
• Trauma-Focused Therapy
Using knowledge of trauma and recovery to design and deliver services.
• Parent Support Groups
Individual and group support are provided to offer information and support to non-offending parents and caregivers of children who have been sexually abused.
• Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT)
Professionals in the community review crimes against children cases. The MDT is made up of representatives from the following areas: law enforcement, social services, district attorney's office, medical and mental health professionals, forensic interviewers, the executive director and victim advocacy from S.A.R.A. Inc.