If you, or someone you care about is a victim of sexual violence, we can help. Let us walk beside you as you start down the path to recovery.
SAVAR was founded in 1981 to support the victims of sexual violence in Cayuga County, to enhance community awareness of this issue and to empower individuals so that sexual crimes can be prevented.
SAVAR services are guided by the belief that survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones deserve a response system that is custom fit for their special needs. The services that we provide are directed at empowering survivors as they recover from their trauma.
SAVAR receives support from New York State Department of Health, New York State Crime Victims Board, United Way of Cayuga County, Cayuga County Youth Bureau, and other public and private donations.
Free & Confidential Services
SAVAR offers free services to survivors as well as "secondary victims" of rape, incest, child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of sexual violence. Services are available to all commmunity members regardless of gender, age, economic/cultural/ethnic background or sexual orientation. We use the utmost care to insure the privacy of our cilents and to create a nurturing environment in which to address this sensitive issue. All services are free and confidential.
24 Hour Hotline
Advocates are available through our 24 hour hotline 7 days a week. They are available to answer any questions you may have, help you sort out your feelings, refer you to appropriate resources, accompany you through the process of reporting a sexual assault and with seeking appropriate treatment, or just to listen.
Therapy
Our professional therapists are available to help sexual abuse survivors, as well as their families, partners and friends, as they begin the journey of healing. Therapy is provided within a safe and solution focused context.
Support Groups
Groups are formed for sexual abuse/assault survivors and their family members. They are available to different age groups and genders according to need.
Accompaniment & Advocacy
Advocates are available to meet survivors at medical facilities, law enforcement agencies, and/or the courts to provide emotional support and information about medical and/or legal procedures.
Crime Victims Compensation
Compensation claims may be filed with the NYS Crime Victims Board for any out of pocket expenses that you may have incurred due to a crime. That includes lost wages, damaged property, medical costs, and therapy. SAVAR staff can assist in filing the claim form.
Community & Professional Education
SAVAR provides Community Education Programs on a wide range of topics, for all age levels. Education is for awareness and prevention. The topics include: personal safety awareness and safety rules for all ages; child sexual abuse awareness and prevention for caregivers; date/acquaintence rape, and on sexual harassment and community resources. Programs are available at no cost to schools, community groups, churches, professionals, and others.
SAVAR sponsors two annual events
The annual "Take Back the Night" march, is a community event where citizens speak out against violence against people.
"More than JAVA with the Gents," is a fundraiser which includes dinner, a guest speakers, a silent auction, and presentation of the SAVAR Gold Award to a recipient who has dedicated his/her service to victims of crime.
Internships Available
SAVAR welcomes college students to participate in an internship. We can offer experience through our Education and Prevention Awareness Program and our Volunteer Advocate Program to bachelor level students. Through our therapy service, we can offer an internship to Master's level students interested in gaining experience in trauma treatment and recovery.
Volunteer Opportunities
SAVAR would not exist without the support of our volunteers. Advocates complete a free 40 hours training before donating their time to accompany victims to various medical facilities, law enforcement agencies and even to court. The volunteers also work our 24 hour hotline and dedicate many hours to community awareness. If you are interested in becoming a SAVAR volunteer - contact the SAVAR Service Coordinator through Cayuga Counseling Services, Inc.
