If Someone You Know Is Assaulted

If someone comes to you for help, recognize that they might be struggling with painful feelings -- anger, fear, denial, or embarrassment.

As a supportive friend or ally, you provide support, give assurance that College and community resources are available to help, and offer assistance to access these resources.

Suggestions for how to help victims/survivors of interpersonal violence:

• Be a good listener by being attentive and not passing judgment on what a victim/survivor shares with you.
• Respect the victim or survivor's need for privacy. It is their choice what and how much to share. If you are a College employee, be candid about your obligation to report the incident to the Title IX Coordinator or a member of the Title IX Team.
• Remain patient with the victim or survivor. Each person is different in how they cope with experiencing sexual or relationship violence and how much time it takes to heal.
• Help to empower the survivor. Instead of offering advice, ask how you can best support them. Offer encouragement, but do not pressure the victim or survivor to take any particular action. Respect their decisions.
• Be present for the victim or survivor. Having someone there as they explore medical, legal, and on-campus judicial options can be comforting when faced with difficult decisions and interpreting processes and procedures.
• Be mindful of your own needs and be sure to take care of yourself. People in supporting roles can benefit from professional assistance by speaking to someone at the Knox College Health and Counseling Center.

Escort Services
Campus Safety officers are available 24 hours a day to provide escorts on the Knox campus by calling 309-341-7979.

Student Group for Survivors of Sexual Assault

A support group for students who have been sexually assaulted will meet on campus. This group, led by Diane Mayfield, a counselor from WIRC-CAA Victim Services, will offer an opportunity to assist students with the healing process.

If you are a student and are interested in this group, please email Diane at rebecca@wirpc.org. You may also call her at 309-836-2148 or 309-837-5555 and ask for Diane. The location of the group room will remain confidential, and Diane will disclose it directly to group participants.