Tri-County Sexual Assault Response Center

This project aims to transform the response to sexual assault in Calhoun, Cleburne, and Talladega counties by training nurses and community members, providing sexual assault advocacy, strengthening local infrastructure, and fostering partnerships to build a sustainable, survivor-centered system of care. Using the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) approved curriculum, registered nurses will be trained to perform Sexual Assault Nurse Examinations (SANEs), addressing the critical need for qualified healthcare providers to deliver compassionate and forensic care to survivors. Alongside this, community members will be trained to serve as sexual assault advocates, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to provide trauma-informed support and advocacy for survivors.

To ensure a coordinated and effective response, the project will establish Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) in each of the three counties. These multidisciplinary teams will bring together law enforcement, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to create a unified approach to sexual assault cases, improving outcomes for survivors while fostering collaboration across sectors specific to each county jurisdiction. The project will also enhance the region's training capabilities by establishing a state-of-the-art smart conference room, enabling hybrid, virtual, and in-person training for nurses, advocates, and other stakeholders. This facility will provide a flexible and accessible learning environment, supporting ongoing education and community engagement. 

Central to the project is a commitment to promoting survivor-centered practices. By developing standardized policies and procedures for each county rooted in evidence-based best practices, the initiative will ensure survivors receive care that prioritizes their dignity, safety, and holistic well-being. In addition to providing sexual assault advocacy, the project seeks to empower communities through outreach and education, raising awareness about sexual assault, available resources, and prevention strategies. Strengthened partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and law enforcement will further enhance the community’s capacity to support survivors and sustain long-term improvements in sexual assault care and advocacy.

This comprehensive approach will create a robust, interconnected system of support, empowering survivors, building capacity, and fostering a culture of collaboration and prevention. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term sustainability, the project positions these counties as leaders in compassionate and effective sexual assault response.