Experiencing any form of domestic or sexual violence can have both short and long term impacts on the life of the survivor and those who care about them. It is the mission of the Advocacy Center to increase the safety and reduce the trauma for those who have been impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, rape and child sexual abuse. Our trained advocates and volunteers work to provide high quality, trauma informed services guided by the needs of each person we serve.
Services are all free, confidential* and provided regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, religious belief, ability level or immigration status.
Confidentiality of Services
As is outlined in the Violence Against Women’s Act (VAWA) and our best practices of providing victim services the Advocacy Center keeps all communications in strict confidence. However, as expected by law, there are limits to our confidentiality that we philosophically share with those who seek services.
In the following cases we may have to share limited information about individuals without expressed permission:
- An individual is believed to be actively suicidal or homicidal
- We suspect a child, under the age of 18, is being abused or neglected by a primary caregiver
- We receive a properly issued and upheld Judicial Subpoena
- These are relatively rare circumstances and if you have any questions about what advocates can keep confidential please call our hotline anonymously and staff will be happy to discuss any concerns.
Client Services
Our Client Services team can provide a variety of in person and over the phone services to support those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, rape and child sexual abuse.
Services are available to
- Victims, including adults, children, teens, and college students, of any form of domestic or sexual violence regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or intellectual ability, race, ethnicity or immigration status
- Victims of domestic or dating violence by a current or former intimate partner
- Victims of sexual assault or rape
- Victims of child sexual abuse, both youth and adults who were sexually abused as children
- Friends, family members, intimate partners and others who care about victims of any form of domestic or sexual violence
How We Can Help
Services provided are based on the specific needs of each survivor. Advocates can provide safety and support in the following ways:
Crisis Services:
- 24 Hour Hotline 607-277-5000
- Shelter at our confidential safe house
- Go with you to a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) at Cayuga Medical Center
- Assistance developing a physical and emotional safety plan
- Assistance filing for financial reimbursement for expenses related to the victimization through the NYS Office of Victims Services (OVS)*
*Advocates can discuss eligibility for OVS compensation
Addressing emotional needs following a trauma, past or recent:
- Ongoing support through the 24 Hour Hotline
- Support groups and empowerment classes
- Support during court appearances, meetings with police or Title IX investigators, during a SAFE (Sexual Assault Forensic Exam) at Cayuga Medical Center and at other appointments as appropriate
- Therapy services and referrals to therapists
Legal Advocacy:
- Discuss your legal options related to the Criminal Justice or Family Court Systems
- Help obtaining an Order of Protection or emergency custody through Family Court
- Go with you to meetings with the District Attorney’s Office and court appearances
- Support and advocacy with Child Protective Services or the Family Assessment Response Team at Department of Social Services
- Discuss your options related to and provide support during campus-based disciplinary systems including Judicial Affairs Proceedings or Title IX Investigations
Education Services
Our Education Department offers interactive programs, informational tabling, and works closely with k12 schools, colleges, parents, and local communities to raise public awareness and increase understanding of the realities of domestic and sexual violence. We also offer professional and customized trainings to health care providers, counselors and therapists, youth workers, school staff, college staff, police and social service providers, among others. The Advocacy Center can work with you to develop a custom workshop, training, seminar, or presentation on topics relating to domestic and sexual violence.
Email info@actompkins.org or call our office line at 607-277-3203 to ask about programs, events, and education materials.