VSC Podcast episode 88 - Non-reported Cases of Sexual Assault - a podcast by Victim Service Center

On the 88th episode of the VSC Podcast, Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell is joined by FCASV’s Director of Programs Melissa Ashton and VSC’s Lead Victim Advocate Rhonda Wilson to chat about the many barriers survivors may face when it comes to reporting, the different options survivors have and the resources available to them whether or not they want to report, and why it is important for survivors to make choices that are right for them on their healing journey.

Melissa Ashton, LCSW (she/her) has been in the field of victim services since 2001. She began her career primarily supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence through the criminal justice system. Melissa also served as a campus based advocate for nearly 10 years where she worked with survivors of all types of crimes. Through her work at FCASV, Melissa has worked with survivors on their civil legal needs under the LAV grant and has also provided technical assistance to Florida advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors. She is currently the Director of Programs and in this role provides training and technical assistance to Florida's 31 certified sexual assault programs around the state. Melissa also works on PREA issues and continues to train advocates. In her free time Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and training for her next race!

Rhonda Wilson (she/her) has been part of the VSC team for over 12 years. She has three graduate degrees, a Master of Human Services, a MBA and a Master in Administration of Justice and Security. Rhonda has over 30 years of experience in criminal/military justice. She served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. After retiring from the Navy, Rhonda worked as the Director of a Residential Re-entry Center for inmates transitioning from federal prisons. Rhonda’s goal is to engage the entire community in activities that prevent sexual assault and crime.

You can listen to this episode on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/SQOkyztYWPY

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Want to make a difference? Visit Victimservicecenter.org to learn how you can get involved and help the VSC continue supporting survivors of trauma.

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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL, for the Florida state sexual helpline call (888) 956-7273. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

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