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Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.
Featured photo courtesy of National Sexual Violence Resource Center
MEDIA CONTACT:
Julie Popp
Office of Children, Aging, and Community Services
Colorado Department of Human Services
(720) 788-130
1 in 2 Women and 1 in 6 Men Face Sexual Violence Each Year
The Colorado Department of Human Services Highlights Survivor Support for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
DENVER (April 13, 2026) — April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) and its partners urge every community to take action. There are many ways communities can join the effort to prevent sexual violence and strengthen confidential support for survivors. This year’s national theme: “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward,” highlights the progress made in prevention and the work that still lies ahead.
Sexual violence is more common than many people realize. Nationally, data from PreventConnect shows that 1 in 2 women and 1 in 6 men will experience some form of contact sexual violence – including rape, coercion, and unwanted contact- in their lifetime. Additionally, about 1 in 3 people report experiencing verbal sexual harassment in the workplace or in public spaces. According to the National Sexual Assault Hotline, someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted nearly every minute.
“Sexual violence affects individuals and families in every community,” said Dr. Meghan Stidd, director of the Division of Community Programs. “Increasing awareness and access to support services is essential for both prevention and healing.”
Colorado has progressed in its response to Sexual Violence. In 2022, SB22-183 recognized the importance of supporting community-based sexual violence services and directed CDHS to invest in these critical services. Since this directive, the 15 advocacy organizations partnering with CDHS answered more than 10,500 crisis calls and served over 7,600 clients between 2023 and 2025.
Survivors in Colorado can access free and confidential services through community-based advocacy organizations funded by CDHS. Available services include:
- 24/7 crisis intervention
- Medical and legal accompaniment
- Safety planning and advocacy
- Professional counseling
This support is available regardless of when the violence occurred, and survivors do not need a forensic exam to receive these free and confidential community-based services.
Survivors can also receive medical forensic exams with or without reporting to law enforcement. Colorado offers three reporting options: law enforcement reporting, medical (non-investigative) reporting, and anonymous reporting.
“It takes tremendous courage to come forward, and every survivor deserves to have access to resources, free of judgment or shame,” said House Majority Leader Monica Duran. “As a survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence, I know this firsthand and faced many obstacles and stigmas after escaping my abuser. By continuing to strengthen laws that support programs and build community awareness, we can help survivors begin their healing journey.”
Community members can help by listening without judgment, avoiding blame, learning about safe and healthy interactions, and connecting survivors to professional resources.
During Sexual Assault Awareness Month and throughout the year, Coloradans are encouraged to learn the signs of sexual violence, promote healthy relationships, and share available resources.
For no cost, confidential help in Colorado, visit the Colorado Coalition Against Sexual Assault website: youhavetherightco.org/support-services/
If someone has engaged in harmful sexual violence or is concerned they might cause harm, it is never too late to seek help. Visit the Sex Offender Management Board page to learn more about approved treatment providers and pathways towards accountability and change.
About us:
The Office of Children, Aging, and Community Services (OCACS) is an office within the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) dedicated to promoting the safety, permanency, and well-being of Coloradans of all ages. OCACS provides statewide leadership, funding, policy development, and oversight in partnership with county human services departments, Tribes, Area Agencies on Aging, and community organizations. OCACS oversees Child Welfare, Community Programs, and Aging and Adult Protective Services, which collectively ensure consistent and effective service delivery for vulnerable populations across their lifespans.
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