Media Release

8:50 a.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center received recognition on September 4, 2008 as a certified rape crisis center by the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence.  On March 4, 2008 the program was monitored for certification renewal and compliance with Florida Council Against Sexual Violence certification standards by ENSYNC Diversified Management Services an independent organizational performance consultant.  Certification requires rape crisis centers receiving funds from the Rape Crisis Program Trust Fund meet or exceed the minimum standards for 102 service standard requirements. 

Funds credited to the trust fund consist of money collected as an additional assessment in each case in which a defendant pleads guilty, nolo contendere, or is found guilty of a sexual offense.  More than $100,000.00 has been received by the program from the Rape Crisis Program Trust Fund.  Money from the trust fund must be used exclusively to support services for victims of sexual violence.  Rape Crisis Program Trust funds have been used to assist sexual assault victims with rent and utilities, pay a small stipend to providers for innovative therapeutic services for support groups, purchase activity workbooks, journals, art, crafts and supplies for the teen group and train Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners.

"We are very pleased our program, staff and volunteers passed the scrutiny and in depth review required for certification renewal." said Loretta Golden, program director, "By meeting the minimum standards, and in most instances exceeding best practice standards, survivors of sexual assault in Alachua County will continue to receive comprehensive quality services focused on diminishing the impact of sexual assault and other violent crimes."

All services are free and confidential.

For more information, contact  Loretta Golden at 352-264-6760 or toll-free at 866- 252-543

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