STAR’s mission is to prevent sexual trauma and provide comprehensive, collaborative crisis intervention, advocacy, and support to victims/survivors, their families, and our communities. |
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WE CONTINUE TO STAND TOGETHER |
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Support from our community remains essential to reach our goal - all Alaskans live free of sexual trauma.
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August Blog: Isolation Beyond Social Distancing
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To combat isolation and practice resiliency against Covid-19, many have established creative new ways to congregate through digital platforms in our professional and personal lives, where we can enjoy mask free conversations, work collectively on projects, or celebrate events through video chat. There were even digital Proms and Graduations for the class of 2020!
While we search for new ways to gather, work, and play, we should also consider our friends, family and neighbors who are struggling to survive abuse within the confides of their homes, experiencing the isolation brought on by Covid-19 with their abuser.
In fact, aside from the restrictions of Covid-19, many perpetrators of violence force those they abuse into isolation (telling them they can’t see friends and family, taking their phone away, managing where they go, etc.) so they can remain in control.
Home life is one of dangers for those experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse from a perpetrator that occupies or frequently visits that same household. We can be supportive members of a healthy community by helping to protect each other from the dangers of Covid-19 by following mandates and also from the potential threats of isolation.
Below are some tips to promote active bystander intervention and reduce abuse in isolation:
- If you see signs of neglect or abuse with a relative, friend or neighbor – CHECK IN! Let them know you are present and available for walks, dropping off groceries, or other socially distant support or activities.
- Let someone know they are seen and can be heard! You might be their only outlet.
- Remember to do so safely – Giving support of the person(s) you are concerned for is the goal, not confronting the person you believe to be the perpetrator.
- Get other forms of communication from the person you are concerned for; a second phone number, social media page, email, etc. If they are no longer using Instagram or Facebook, it can be an indication that they have been forced to no longer use it – staying in touch with them is what’s most important.
- Get in touch with STAR if you, or someone you know, are experiencing abuse in isolation – we are here to listen and provide resources.
For some healing tools and resources for you and your loved ones, check out the new Interview Series from the amazing Blaze Bell! Blaze, a local Life Coach, Performer and Healer, is interviewing leaders in the fields of Meditation, Life & Love Coaching, Hypnotherapy, Sound Healing, Essential Oils, Mindful Parenting, Breathwork, and more! We are currently featuring her interviews every Monday on our Facebook page. You can also find the videos here on Blaze's YouTube channel.
If you would like to learn more about the role you can take on to help keep our communities safer from power based personal violence, contact STAR during business hours to be connected with a member of the prevention and education team.
STAR is here to help! Our Crisis Line is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. STAR's 24-Hour, Free, Confidential Crisis Line can be reached at (907) 276-7273 in Anchorage or toll free: (800) 478-8999.
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STAR is currently accepting applications for a Full-time Direct Services Advocate and an On Call Advocate. Check out these opportunities on our website at www.staralaska.com/employment.
To apply, please send your cover letter, resume and three references to [email protected].
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STAR (Standing Together Against Rape, Inc.) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. STAR does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. |
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The Next Crisis Line Responder Training is Coming up Soon!
STAR's Crisis Hotline provides 24/7, free and confidential support and information for survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones, as well as others seeking information or resources. The line is staffed by volunteers, in shifts that last from 4-7 hours at a time.
Crisis Line Responder Training participants will be given specialized online training to assist callers from all walks of life in crisis intervention, emotional support, information and referrals to other services.
If you're interested in becoming a volunteer responder, you must first complete our Volunteer Application, and we will soon follow up with you to schedule an interview.
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Alaskans, We Thank YOU!
We humbly thank every Alaskan who gave a portion of their dividend to STAR, so that we can continue working to prevent sexual violence and help survivors heal.
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The health and safety of our staff and clients are of utmost importance to us. In light of COVID-19, this is how STAR is modifying operations until further notice:
- No appointments are taking place at the STAR Office.
- STAR Employees are working from home and maintaining social distancing.
- All meetings are being held online or by teleconference.
- Counseling appointments are happening via TeleMed.
- We will continue to reevaluate to determine next steps and will provide updated information as it evolves.
- The STAR Crisis Line is available for survivors and their loved ones. As always, STAR services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
24-Hour Crisis and Support:
(907) 276-7273
Toll-Free: (800) 478-8999
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