The Importance of Culturally Responsive Services in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Work: How CAPSA Centers Your Experience 

At CAPSA, we understand that domestic violence and sexual assault affect individuals from all backgrounds and cultures. We are committed to providing culturally responsive services that center the unique experiences and needs of each survivor we serve.  

The Importance of Culturally Responsive Services 

Culturally responsive services are essential in domestic violence and sexual assault work because they recognize the unique experiences and needs of each survivor. This is particularly important for individuals from marginalized communities, who may face additional barriers to accessing support and resources. By centering the experiences of survivors, culturally responsive services can help to build trust and facilitate healing. 

In addition, culturally responsive services can help address the root causes of domestic violence and sexual assault by recognizing and challenging systems of oppression that contribute to violence. This includes addressing issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and ableism that can intersect with domestic violence and sexual assault. 

How CAPSA Centers Your Experience 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing culturally responsive services that center the experiences of survivors from all backgrounds and cultures. Here are some of the ways we do this: 

  • Multilingual Advocacy: Through our Spanish-speaking Diversity Caseworker and the translation service Proprio Language Services, CAPSA can offer advocacy services in multiple languages. This ensures that survivors who speak languages other than English can access support. 
  • Ongoing Training: Our staff receive ongoing training to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide practical, trauma-informed, culturally competent support to survivors from diverse backgrounds. 
  • Community Outreach: We partner with community organizations such as the Cache Refugee and Immigrant Connection and local LGBTQ+ resource organizations to ensure that survivors from all backgrounds are aware of our services and can access support when they need it. 
  • Survivor-Centered Approach: Our services are survivor-centered, which means that we prioritize the needs and experiences of survivors in all aspects of our work. This includes recognizing and challenging systems of oppression that contribute to violence. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Start by Believing: How Employers Can Play a Crucial Role in Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault 

Sexual assault is a devastating experience that can have long-term physical and emotional effects on survivors. Unfortunately, many survivors also face disbelief and victim-blaming when they disclose their experiences to others. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse, CAPSA believes employers play a crucial role in creating a culture of support and believing survivors.  

The Importance of Believing Survivors 

One of the most damaging experiences for survivors of sexual assault is not being believed. When survivors are believed and supported, it can help them begin healing and move forward with their lives. 

When survivors courageously share their experiences, it takes immense bravery and vulnerability. By believing them, we create a safe and supportive environment that validates their pain and their truth. This validation can be transformative, helping survivors overcome the self-doubt and shame that often accompany their experiences. 

Moreover, when we believe survivors, we reinforce a culture that rejects victim-blaming and shatters the walls of silence and stigma surrounding these deeply sensitive issues. This cultural shift opens the door for survivors to seek the support they need, whether it be from friends, family, or professional resources like organizations such as CAPSA.  

Ultimately, by believing survivors, we stand together in solidarity, providing a collective voice that demands justice, empathy, and compassion. It is through this collective effort that we can break the cycle of violence and create a society that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals, free from the devastating impact of domestic violence and sexual assault. 

How Employers Can Support Survivors 

Employers can play a crucial role in creating a culture of support and believing survivors. Here are some ways that employers can support survivors of sexual assault in the workplace: 

  • Provide Time Off: Survivors of sexual assault may need time off to attend counseling or legal appointments, and employers should be willing to provide this time off without penalty. Additionally, survivors may need time off to deal with the physical and emotional effects of their experience, and employers should provide this time off as well. 
  • Create a Safe and Supportive Work Environment: Employers should create a work environment that is safe and supportive for survivors. This can include providing a private space for survivors to make phone calls or take time off for appointments related to sexual assault.  
  • Train Employees: Employers can also provide training to all employees on how to recognize and respond to sexual assault in the workplace. CAPSA’s Community Engagement department specializes in providing this training and can be contacted for scheduling at 435-753-2500. 
  • Implement Sexual Assault Policies: Employers should have policies in place that address sexual assault in the workplace. These policies should include a clear reporting process as well as support and resources for survivors. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

You Are Not Alone: How CAPSA’s Support Groups Create Peer-Based Support

As a survivor of physical or sexual abuse, it can feel like you are alone and isolated in your experiences. However, at CAPSA, we know that survivors can benefit greatly from connecting with others who have shared similar experiences. That’s why we offer groups, which provide a safe environment for survivors to connect with one another and receive peer-based support. CAPSA offers support, educational, and therapy groups for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Groups create a safe place to learn, process, and heal while developing a peer-based support network.

What are Support Groups? 

Support groups are a form of therapy that involves connecting with others who have experienced similar traumatic events. The purpose of a support group is to provide a safe environment where survivors can share their experiences, feelings, and concerns with others who understand and empathize with what they are going through. 

At CAPSA, we offer several different groups for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. These groups are facilitated by trained professionals who are knowledgeable about the unique needs of survivors. We also offer groups for specific populations, such as LGBTQ+ survivors or Spanish-speaking survivors, to ensure that everyone can receive the resources they need. 

After one of CAPSA’s most recent support groups, one participant reported feeling more validated after participating in the group. She described feeling she is no longer alone. She stated that she usually feels a need for “a lot of words of affirmation,” so hearing the other disclosures in the group affirmed her experiences. Another participant reported leaving the group experience with validation, knowing that what she experienced was real and was abuse, and another participant said she gained confidence in assessing future relationships for red flags because of her participation in the group.

Benefits of Support Groups 

  • Peer-Based Support: Support groups offer survivors the opportunity to connect with others who have shared similar experiences. This peer-based support can be incredibly validating and healing, as survivors no longer feel like they are alone in their experiences.
  • Validation: Survivors often struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame after experiencing abuse. Being part of a support group can help survivors validate their experiences and understand that the abuse was not their fault.
  • Increased Self-Esteem: Support groups can help survivors feel more confident and empowered. As they connect with others who have shared similar experiences, survivors may feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings, which can help boost their self-esteem.
  • Coping Skills: Support groups can provide survivors with practical coping skills and strategies to help them manage their symptoms and emotions. By learning from others who have gone through similar experiences, survivors can develop new ways of coping with their trauma.
  • Community: Support groups can help survivors build a sense of community and belonging. By connecting with others who understand and empathize with their experiences, survivors can feel less isolated and more supported.

“Working with groups means longer, harder hours, but I love it, so I keep volunteering to help with them,” said Stefani Taylor, a therapist in CAPSA’s clinical department. “My favorite thing about the Hope & Healing group for survivors of sexual assault is the growth of the group members. Typically, everyone is quiet when we start. The first day is a lot of facilitators talking, asking questions, and building rapport. But over a few sessions, members start to open up, share, and support each other. Bonds form and friendships begin in H&H. People who I never thought would say a word become some of the most frequent participants and some of the friendliest supporters of other group members. I can’t express how much I love watching people become comfortable with the group and close with each other. It is a bond I’ve never seen anywhere else, a really important, close, unspoken bond.”

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of each individual who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.

Why Domestic Violence is Everyone’s Business: Tips for Creating a Safe and Supportive Workplace

Domestic violence is not  a private matter. It affects not only the individuals who experience it, but also their families, friends, communities, and workplaces. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women and one in nine men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact, sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking. Domestic violence can have serious consequences for the physical, mental, and emotional health of survivors, as well as their productivity, performance, and safety at work. 

As an employer, you have a responsibility and an opportunity to create a safe and supportive workplace for your employees who may be experiencing domestic violence. By doing so, you can help prevent further harm, reduce absenteeism and turnover, increase morale and loyalty, and enhance your reputation as a socially responsible organization. Here are some tips for creating a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence: 

  • Educate yourself and your staff about domestic violence. CAPSA provides training on the signs, impacts, and resources for individuals impacted by domestic violence. This training can be provided to managers and employees on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence in the workplace. 
  • Display CAPSA signage in the office. 
  • Connect survivors with resources and support. Know your local resources and services that can help survivors of domestic violence. CAPSA is the local resource for Cache and Rich Counties and Preston, Weston, and Franklin, Idaho. Encourage survivors to seek help and support them in accessing the resources they need. 
  • Foster a culture of respect and trust. Create a positive work environment where employees feel valued, respected, and supported. Promote open communication, teamwork, diversity, and inclusion among your staff. Encourage employees to speak up if they witness or experience domestic violence or any other form of harassment or discrimination in the workplace. Respond promptly and appropriately to any complaints or concerns raised by employees. Demonstrate your leadership and commitment to preventing and addressing domestic violence in your workplace.
  • Make fighting Domestic Violence a cause of your business – employees find value in organizations that prioritize a cause.  

At CAPSA (Citizens Against Physical & Sexual Abuse), we believe that everyone deserves to live free from fear of abuse. We provide safe, caring, and confidential shelter, advocacy, and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Cache County, the Bear Lake area, and Southwest Idaho. We also provide prevention education programs for schools, businesses, organizations, and communities to raise awareness and reduce incidents of abuse. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please call CAPSA’s 24-hour Support Phone Line at (435) 753-2500 to speak with a trained advocate. We are here to help you. 

Together, we can make a difference.

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Saranoni’s Donation of Blankets Brings Comfort to Survivors and Gratitude to CAPSA’s Donors

Saranoni’s Donation of Blankets Brings Comfort to Survivors and Gratitude to CAPSA’s Donors

Saranoni, a luxury  blanket company, has made a generous donation of blankets to CAPSA to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The donation includes blankets for CAPSA’s shelter, providing comfort to individuals during their stay, as well as blankets to be gifted to individual donors who support CAPSA’s vital efforts.

CAPSA, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and shelter to survivors, relies on community contributions to sustain its critical work. Recognizing the importance of expressing gratitude to these generous donors, CAPSA sought a partnership with Saranoni to provide high-quality blankets as tokens of appreciation to CAPSA’s numerous donors, an invitation that Saranoni welcomed. In time, “thank you’s” weren’t the end of Saranoni’s donations!

Saranoni’s substantial donation of blankets aims to bring comfort and warmth to both survivors seeking support from CAPSA and the organization’s valued contributors. The blankets donated to CAPSA’s shelter have a meaningful impact on survivors, as individuals often arrive with nothing. Many survivors have expressed that their time in the shelter is the first time they have felt safe and able to sleep without fear in a long time. Saranoni’s blankets provide an additional layer of comfort to help them heal and rebuild their lives.

In addition to supporting survivors directly, Saranoni’s donation includes blankets to be gifted to CAPSA’s individual donors during various honorary events. These blankets serve as symbols of gratitude, recognizing the significant contributions made by these individuals in supporting CAPSA’s mission. CAPSA understands that these meaningful gestures help foster a sense of community and inspire continued support for their vital services.

“We are incredibly grateful for Saranoni’s generous donation,” expressed Alyna Ohling, CAPSA’s Marketing and Community Engagement Director. “The blankets provided by Saranoni not only offer physical comfort to survivors but also symbolize the shared commitment to creating a safer and more caring society. We deeply value this partnership and the positive impact it will have on both our donors and the survivors we serve.”

Saranoni

Saranoni, founded by Nathan and Emily Peterson, is a business dedicated to serving others and making a positive difference in the world. Their belief in doing the job right and serving those around them aligns perfectly with CAPSA’s mission. Saranoni’s blankets are crafted to bring warmth, comfort, and create cherished moments that become special memories.

CAPSA

CAPSA is a non-profit organization providing support, shelter, and resources to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Serving Cache and Rich Counties, CAPSA offers 24-hour support phone lines, emergency shelter, casework, rape exam advocacy, prevention education, transitional housing, and clinical therapy. All of CAPSA’s services are provided free of charge and kept confidential. CAPSA’s vision is a world with empowered survivors, safe homes, and children living without fear.

The collaboration between Saranoni and CAPSA exemplifies the spirit of compassion and community engagement.

 

What to Expect When You Call CAPSA: A Guide to Our Survivor-Centered Services

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, we want to assure you that We Are Here for You and We Believe You! 

What to expect when you call CAPSA  

Our goal is to empower survivors to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being and to access the support they need to become safe and to heal. 

When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you will speak to a trained advocate. We understand that it can be challenging to reach out for help, and we want to assure you that we are here to support you safely and confidentially. Our advocates will listen to your concerns and offer emotional support, validation, and empathy.  

Information and Support 

On the support line, you will be encouraged to speak to caseworkers who will provide you with information and support based on your specific needs and circumstances. We will discuss your safety concerns and provide you with information on safety planning, protective orders, and legal options. If you need immediate safety, you will have access to our emergency shelter.  

Our services are survivor-centered, meaning that we will work with you to identify your goals and support you in achieving them. We can provide you with ongoing emotional support, advocacy with law enforcement and the court system, and assistance with housing, employment, and financial stability. 

Confidentiality 

At CAPSA, we take confidentiality seriously. We understand that privacy and safety are crucial concerns for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Our services are confidential, meaning we will not share any information about your situation without your permission, except in cases where we are legally obligated – such as cases of child or elderly abuse.  

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of each individual who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.  

 

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Stander Increases their Support of CAPSA’s Annual Golf Tournament

Stander increases their support of CAPSA’s Annual Golf Tournament to honor founder Jan Miller’s love and support of CAPSA. 

Stander, a local mobility device company, and the family of Jan Miller, the founder and former CEO of Stander, have committed to becoming the presenting sponsor for the Jan Miller Memorial Golf Tournament for CAPSA. This move marks an increase in the companies’ support of the non-profit organization, which provides help and support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and rape in Cache Valley and Rich County.  

The Jan Miller Memorial Golf Tournament is one of CAPSA’s most significant in-house fundraising events, raising over $50,000 each year. All of CAPSA’s services are provided free of charge, and the funds raised from this event go towards supporting individuals and families escaping violence, beginning new lives, and healing from associated trauma. 

Jan Miller, who was a longtime board member of CAPSA, was passionate about empowering survivors of domestic violence to become independent. She served on the board from 2006 until her passing in 2018 and as the board president was instrumental in the establishment of Independence Place, a CAPSA-owned neighborhood of nine homes, the creation of an endowment, and the expansion of therapy services. In honor of Jan’s memory, CAPSA renamed the annual golf tournament to the Jan Miller Memorial Golf Tournament in 2019. 

Stander has been a longstanding supporter of CAPSA and has now committed to becoming the presenting sponsor of the Golf Tournament. This sponsorship is a testament to the company’s commitment to honoring Jan’s legacy and love for CAPSA.  

The Jan Miller Memorial Golf Tournament will take place on June 8, 2023, at the Logan Golf and Country Club. The registration, sponsorship, and tournament details can be found at www.capsa.org/golf. 

ABOUT CAPSA  

CAPSA is a nonprofit domestic violence, sexual assault and rape support center serving Cache and RIch Counties. Each year CAPSA serves more than 1,900 women, men and children fleeing abuse and healing healing from the trauma associated with domestic violence or sexual abuse. CAPSA’s support services include 24-hour support phone lines, emergency shelter, casework, rape exam advocacy, prevention education, transitional housing, and clinical therapy. All CAPSA’s services are FREE and CONFIDENTIAL. Learn more at capsa.org. 

ABOUT STANDER 

Jan Miller founded Stander, a company that invents and manufactures mobility devices for the elderly and disabled, in 1998 and served as Stander’s Fearless Leader (president and CEO) until her passing. Jan, along with her husband Troy Miller (engineer), were first inspired to create mobility devices to assist Jan’s grandmother. These inventions enabled Essie to live independently in the comfort of her own home. This victory, combined with Jan’s commitment to better society, inspired her to create Stander, Inc. Since then, Stander has invented over 30 innovative mobility solutions to help the elderly and disabled live more independently. 

For further information, please contact Alyna Ohling, the Community Engagement Director for CAPSA, at alyna@capsa.org or 435-752-2500. 

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Local Tattoo Artist Gives Back

Neil Roberts has created a raffle for a 6 hour dragon tattoo piece. All proceeds will be donated to CAPSA.

Tattoos have long been used as a way to express oneself, to mark a momentous occasion, or to commemorate a loved one. But for one local tattoo artist, his reason for giving back to his community is deeply personal.

CONTINUUING HIS MOTHER’S WORK

Neil’s mother was part of the original Code R response team at CAPSA. He talks of his mom leaving at all hours to support survivors of Sexual Violence. To this day, the Code R teams responds to support survivors of Sexual Violence at Cache Valley Hospital where they can receive a Forensic Sexual Assault Examination.  Through his mother’s work with Code R, Neil saw firsthand the impact that CAPSA had on survivors and their families.

For him, giving back to CAPSA is a way to honor his mother’s dedication to the organization and to continue her legacy of service to survivors. He sees his art as a way to raise awareness and support for CAPSA, and to help ensure that survivors have access to the resources and support they need.

THE DRAGON AS THE ART PIECE

The reason Neil has chosen a dragon as the art for the piece is because of the symbolism of the dragon as a hero and protector. In many cultures, dragons are seen as powerful symbols of strength, courage, and resilience. They are often depicted as guardians or protectors, watching over those who are vulnerable and defending them from harm.

For the artist, the dragon represents the kind of strength and resilience that survivors of domestic and sexual violence must have in order to heal and rebuild their lives. Through his art, he hopes to celebrate this strength and to remind survivors that they are not alone.

Neil mindfully sees his art as a way to give back to the community, and to help make a difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by domestic and sexual violence.

For the artist, supporting CAPSA is not just a matter of philanthropy, it is personal. Through his art and his dedication to the organization, he hopes to honor his mother’s legacy and importantly support survivors.

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The Intersection of Domestic Violence and the Workplace- How Employers Can Support Survivors

At CAPSA, we understand the devastating impact that domestic violence can have on survivors, including its impact on their employment. Domestic violence can result in physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial instability that can make it difficult for survivors to perform their jobs. We also know that creating a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence is essential. As an organization that works to end domestic violence and sexual assault, we want to share some best practices for employers to support employees who are survivors.  

THE IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON THE WORKPLACE

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on the workplace, both for survivors and their colleagues. In addition to physical injuries and emotional trauma, survivors may experience increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, and a higher risk of turnover. This can have a ripple effect on the workplace environment as a whole, leading to decreased morale and increased tension among colleagues. The perpetrator’s behavior can also impact the safety and well-being of other employees. 

BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE

To create a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence, employers can implement several best practices: 

  1. Ensure employees recognize the workplace supports survivors of domestic violence. This includes understanding the availability of domestic violence support resources in your area. CAPSA is the local resource for Cache Valley and the Bear Lake Area.  One way to do this is to have CAPSA signage around your workplace.  
  1. Engage in identifying a safe and confidential location where a survivor could meet with a CAPSA advocate at the workplace. We are happy to provide this response if needed, call 435-753-2500. 
  1. Provide Training for Employees: CAPSA can provide training in your business – more information can be found at www.capsa.org/business.  
  1. Provide Flexible Work Arrangements: Employers can provide survivors with flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible schedules, to help them manage the impact of domestic violence on their job. 
  1. Protect the confidentiality and privacy of survivors by limiting the disclosure of their personal information to those who need to know for safety reasons; avoiding gossip or judgment; and respecting their choices and boundaries. 
  1. Offer support and assistance to survivors by listening to them empathetically; validating their feelings and experiences; expressing concern for their safety; and referring them to CAPSA.

As an employer, creating a supportive work environment will support survivors of domestic violence and improve your overall work environment. 

If you are interested in learning more or collaborating with us on this issue, please contact Alyna Ohling at community@capsa.org or (435) 753-2500. 

 

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Hope Begins with Communities

Highlighting our work and collaboration at city councils across Cache Valley is one way we engage with the communities that we support and that support us. We believe that bringing awareness is vital to ensuring that survivors in all areas get the help they need. These presentations are given twice annually, once in April for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and once in October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

At CAPSA, we know that hope begins when survivors feel supported by their community. To give hope to survivors we encourage communities and individuals to start by believing and help connect survivors to CAPSA. We have several programs and services that work collaboratively to offer hope and support. One of our core services is advocacy, provided by our Casework team.

We have 6 outreach caseworkers and 4 outreach casework interns at CAPSA. Our caseworkers are often the first to have these hard and personal conversations with survivors of sexual assault and rape. During these conversations, our caseworkers help survivors understand their feelings, their reactions, and help normalize all of it. They approach every conversation in a way that gives power and control back to the survivor and empowers them to make choices that are best for them.

In terms of statistics, last year:

  • There were 39 Forensic Sexual Assault Examinations done at Cache Valley Hospital that our team responded to.
  • 52% of our clients disclosed sexual assault either as a primary or secondary survivor.
  • CAPSA assisted a total of 631 sexual assault clients.