- What are SARA's resources, and how can I access them?
- What does it mean that a SARA is confidential?
- What training do SARAs receive?
- How can I reach SARA if I have questions?
- How can I become a SARA?
- How do SARA backup services work?
- What are some ways I can support someone I care about going through this experience?
- How do I receive resources for my classes? Who do I talk to if I need academic assistance?
- How can I collaborate with SARA for an event I'm organizing?
1. What are SARA's resources, and how can I access them?
We currently have a hotline and walk-in hours that can be accessed during the following times:
Monday - Thursday 3-7 pm & Friday 3-6 pm
We are available for phone calls and walk-in conversations during these hours.
In-person appointments
If you would prefer to schedule a one-on-one appointment or meet at a different time or place than our open hours in the Gender Resource and Advocacy Center, you can contact us at sara-resources@willamette.edu or by coming to the Gender Resource and Advocacy Center during open hours. Only the SARA coordinators and confidential advocate will see any contacts through email. Understand that while communication in person is confidential, email communication is not completely secure so please only include necessary information.
2. What does it mean that a SARA is confidential?
SARAs and the Confidential Advocate are not "required reporters". This means that we don’t report any specifics or names regarding sexual assaults or gender-based violence to the university (the Title IX team). However, we can help you report if you choose to do so, and this is a great place to discuss your options without pressure. Information is sometimes shared among trained SARAs and the Confidential Advocate on a “need to know” basis. This is for consultation toward providing the best possible services.
Trained students and staff report aggregate data to the university and for grant recipient requirements. This means we keep track of and report data overall, such as where assaults happen and how many happen, without identifying information.
3. What training do SARAs receive?
The SARAs go through 40 hours of state-certified advocacy training provided by the Oregon Attorney General's Sexual Assault Task Force as well as supplemental trainings provided by Salem's Center for Hope and Safety. Our training includes the following topic areas among several more not listed:
- Title IX process and compliance
- Confidentiality and Privilege Training
- Advocacy and crisis response
- Dynamics of sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking
- Effects of trauma on survivors
- Anti-oppression and anti-racism training along with institutional equity, diversity, and inclusion training
- Suicide intervention
- Working with system-based partners and other service providers
4. How can I reach SARA if I have questions?
You can always contact the Gender Resource and Advocacy Center with general questions during open hours. If the center is closed, you are welcome to send an email to us at sara-resources@willamette.edu. Only the SARA coordinators and confidential advocate will see any contacts. Understand that while communication in person is confidential, email communication is not completely secure so please only put necessary information.
5. How can I become a SARA?
Our next hiring session will be in the spring semester. Applications will be available in early March. Please email us at sara-resources@willamette.edu to be added to the mailing list regarding SARA hiring.
You can also follow us on Facebook @SAResponseAllies for the most up-to-date information or the GRAC on Instagram @theloft_wu
6. How do SARA backup services work?
There are always 2 SARAs on shift. If you call our hotline and need to speak with someone else, the primary SARA can easily connect you with the backup SARA.
7. What are some ways I can support someone I care about going through this experience?
Let the individual know that you believe them and are there to support them through their choices during this time. Validate and empower them by letting them know that any instance of interpersonal violence is not their fault, and that you support them in whatever decision they choose to make. These few phrases can be a deeply beneficial way to support the individual. If you’d like to talk with a SARA about other ways to support those you care about, you are more than welcome to access our resources.
8. How do I receive resources for my classes? Who do I talk to if I need academic assistance?
SARAs can connect you with the confidential advocate to access additional support like academic or housing arrangements that may be unique and helpful for someone coping through the effects of trauma. You can email the confidential advocate directly to discuss these needs: confidential-advocate@willamette.edu
9. How can I collaborate with SARA for an event I'm organizing?
If you'd like a SARA present at your event, please contact us at sara-resources@willamette.edu and we would be happy to work with you. Please specify what the SARAs would be doing at the event. If you're wanting trainings or prevention presentations, please specify in your email.