National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day
In April 2023, Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment (PAVE) founded the first annual National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day in order to show our gratitude towards those who support survivors during their trauma. The work that advocates do is unparalleled and often plays a crucial role in the healing process. In many areas, survivor advocates are volunteers or are severely underpaid. They often work long hours and are exposed to traumatic experiences on the job, often left with little support afterwards.
Join us this Sexual Assault Awareness Month for our third-annual National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day on April 25th, 2025.
What is a Sexual Assault Advocate?
Sexual assault advocates are professionally and specially trained individuals who respond to and support survivors of sexual assault. Sexual assault advocates’ specific duties vary by location, but most provide emotional support, a lending ear, access to resources, and serve as an echo to a survivors’ needs. Advocates do not make decisions for survivors. They inform survivors of possible options and advocate on their behalf to others. Many advocates are first responders in communities, but their duties are not limited to the acute phase after an assault.
Hear From Real Advocates
Check out our National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day Panel from SAAM 2024!
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Sexual Assault Advocate PanelNational Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day, which is a day PAVE founded during Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2023, falls near the end of April every year. We created Advocate Appreciation Day to spotlight the hard work Sexual Assault Advocates do on a daily basis. On National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day 2024, we hosted a…
Celebrate National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day
Download our National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day toolkit to learn more about sexual assault advocates and how you can show your support and appreciation for all that they do.
Thank-you To These Amazing Advocates!
We asked advocacy centers around the nation to nominate exceptional advocates this National Sexual Assault Advocate Appreciation Day. These advocates have given survivors priceless support, validation, and resources during some of their most difficult moments. Advocates can change the life of a survivor, and they take on a lot in order to do so. We are so grateful for the work of these, and all, sexual assault advocates, and want to highlight some of the qualities that make them such incredible advocates
Western Advocates
To the advocates who serve along the West Coast, we want you to know you’re greatly appreciated! A very special thank you to…
She/her | Employee | Live Violence Free
Samantha has been a fierce advocate for survivors of sexual violence since day one. She starts by believing and meets them where they are at, making sure a safety plan is put in place every time a call or meeting takes place. Accompanying to court, to social service appointments or shopping, she dedicates her time to empowering survivors to reach their goals.
–Heather, Community Program Coordinator
She/her | Employee | University of California, Riverside- Campus Advocacy, Resource, and Education (CARE) office
Ashley is an amazing advocate who creates a safe space where people can feel heard and supported. She genuinely cares and goes out of her way to help make a real difference in those she helps. Additionally, her lively personality makes her fun to be around.
She and two other advocates work with the entire population of college students at University of California, Riverside.
–Shivali, PAVE Intern/2025-2026 CARE Student Staff
She/her | Employee | Tri-Valley Haven
She is a self-driven & passionate advocate. She has played a critical role in educating middle & high schoolers in the Tri-Valley through her wonderful presentations. She has the ability to balance compassion with strength & stand beside the survivors in the hospitals, police stations & jail ensuring their voices are heard & their rights respected. She has made the survivors feel less lonely in their healing journey.
Although this is her 1st job, she is very competent & is doing an amazing job. We are proud of her.
–Andleeb Ali, Director of the Sexual Assault & Counselling Services
She/her | Employee | Tri-Valley Haven
She is a self-driven & a passionate PREA Advocate. She has played a critical role in supporting the Survivors in Santa Rita Jail. Lisa has made the survivors feel less lonely in their healing journey through the art workshops, support groups and giving them one on one counseling sessions. She is compassionate & has stood beside the survivors in the police stations & jail ensuring their voices are heard & their rights respected.
–Andleeb Ali, Director of Sexual Assault & Counseling Services
She/her | Volunteer | Project Sister Family Services
This advocate is special because of her deep empathy, dedication, and passion for her work. She genuinely cares for the survivors she supports, going above and beyond to make a difference. Her commitment and compassion inspire everyone around her, and it’s a privilege to work alongside someone so dedicated.
–Andrea, Hotline/SART Services, Coordinator
She/her | Employee | REACH the Valley (formerly CASA)
She is an incredible advocate who goes above and beyond to support those in need. No matter the time, she is always ready to assist, taking calls 24/7 without hesitation. Her unwavering dedication and commitment deserve to be recognized and appreciated.
She has been doing this for over ten years now.
–Lauren McAllister, Human Trafficking Program Manager
She/her | Volunteer | Project Sister Family Services
Marisol has provided support assistance and essential resource referrals to callers and provided in-person support for survivors of sexual assault who were under-going a forensic medical exam. She is committed to advocating for those who are underserved and has played a crucial role in providing needed crisis-intervention services.
Marisol has fulfilled and excelled in our service requirements as a volunteer advocate in a professional and empathic manner.
–Gabby, Hotline/SART Services Manager
She/her | Employee | Whatcom DVSAS
They continue to show up every single day and have been in this field a very long time. They are modest, and tirelessly adovcate for the rights of others both inside of work and outside of work. They are honest, and the hardest on themselves.
They have made many differences in so many lives in a myriad of different ways.
–Miranda, Program Director
She/her | Employee | Empower Yolo
Jen is more than just a sexual assault advocate—she is a beacon of hope, compassion, and unwavering support for survivors. Her kindness, empathy, and dedication create an environment where survivors feel truly heard, valued, safe, and appreciated.
Jen’s ability to make every survivor feel seen and supported is a rare and incredible gift. She approaches each person with warmth and understanding, ensuring they never feel alone in their healing journey. Her willingness to go above and beyond is nothing short of inspiring—whether it’s staying late, coming in early, or stepping in at the last minute to ensure a survivor’s needs are met, Jen always puts their well-being first.
Her presence alone brings comfort and reassurance. She doesn’t just do this work—she lives it, embodying what it truly means to be an advocate. Jen’s unwavering commitment to survivors is a testament to her strength, kindness, and the immeasurable impact she has on those she helps. The world needs more people like Jen, and those who have the privilege of working with her or receiving her support know just how extraordinary she is.
Jen has been a dedicated member of the agency for five years, consistently going above and beyond to ensure that the needs of clients are met. Wearing many hats, she serves as a housing advocate, youth advocate, and SA advocate, demonstrating her commitment to supporting individuals in various capacities. Through her compassionate approach and extensive expertise, Jen plays a vital role in helping clients navigate challenges and access the resources they need.
–Celina Alveraz, Associate Director
She/her | Employee | El Dorado County District Attorney
She is dedicated to her clients and advocates for them above and beyond. She encourages them to make empowering decisions and is survivor-centered. She supports whatever decision they make and is always readily available to lend a listening ear and provide a safe space for all. Her dedication to her advocacy work and fight to bring awareness to and stop the cycles of violence and sexual abuse is rare as she is dedicated to this cause both in and outside of work.
She has been met with lots of adversary circumstances and she deserves recognition for the work she is passionate about and her integrity behind it.
–A, Victim Witness Advocate
Mid-Western Advocates
Advocates in the Mid-Western United States, please know you make a huge difference! A very special thank you to…
She/her | Employee | Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault
Tracy focuses on working with survivors in confinement and in substance use treatment programs. These survivors face many barriers to accessing services, so Tracy goes to them and meets them where they are at. Tracy helps them to understand the dynamics of trauma and to build skills to process their emotions and feel grounded. Tracy presents complex ideas in ways that are accessible and actionable. She is empathetic and also models good boundaries. She is skilled at working with survivors one-on-one and in group settings.
Tracy is also supportive to her fellow advocates. She offers validation and share resources. During case management, she offers actionable suggestions for how to manage difficult situations and how best to provide survivors with options and information.
–Mary Faulkner, Executive Director
She/her | Employee | Avalon Healing Center
At Avalon Healing Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to survivors of sexual violence, and Shelby Brejnak embodies this mission with unwavering dedication and compassion. Over the past two years, Shelby has been an invaluable advocate, particularly in her work with sex-trafficked clients, providing them with individualized support, critical resources, and case management that extends far beyond the basics.
Shelby’s impact is evident in the deep trust she builds with survivors. Clients affectionately call her “Miss Shelby,” a testament to the warmth and reassurance she brings to every interaction. Whether she’s taking crisis calls, connecting clients to vital resources, or spending hours troubleshooting complex situations, Shelby consistently approaches her work with empathy, patience, and a steadfast commitment to survivor-centered care.
Beyond her direct advocacy, Shelby has stepped into a leadership role as the First Response Team Coordinator, ensuring that our immediate support services operate seamlessly and effectively. Her ability to manage urgent situations while maintaining kindness and professionalism makes her an exceptional asset to both our team and the survivors we serve.
Shelby’s dedication, expertise, and heart make her truly deserving of recognition as an Outstanding Advocate. Her work not only changes lives—it restores dignity, safety, and hope to those who need it most.
We couldn’t do this work without her!
–Vicky Bashkatova, Finance Director
She/her | Employee | YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
Ebony is a quiet storm. She is a champion for sexual assault survivors and a fierce defender for those whose assaults go unacknowledged. Once she is assigned a case she remains with that case until the case is either resolved in the courts or all options have been exhausted. In addition, she is vested in educating the newer Advocates as they navigate challenging systems.
–Loren Simmons, Chief Empowerment Officer
She/her | Employee | RACES (Rape Advocacy, Counseling & Education Services)
Laura has been a valuable asset to RACES for over a decade. Her expertise, coupled with her strong leadership skills, has made her a highly respected figure among the organization’s advocates. She collaborates with RACES staff training new staff, ensuring that they are well-equipped to provide the best possible care to our clients. Her empathetic nature and ability to connect with people during their most vulnerable moments in the Emergency Room have a profound impact on our clients, staff, and nurses.
–Citlaly Y Stanton, Advocacy Services Coordinator
She/her | Employee | Resilience
Brittany has dedicated their work to serving and supporting survivors. Brittany started off as a volunteer at Resilience, worked as a legal advocate and is now our Senior Legal and Medical Advocate. Brittany supports each survivor and explore all options possible to ensure the survivor has options when it comes to healing and justice. Brittany is also super transparent with clients and is prepared to have hard conversations when options are very limited for the survivor. Brittany has worked with over 100 survivors and I am sure she’s made a huge impact on each single one. Besides being an amazing support person for survivors, she is a great team member to Resilience. Brittany constantly checks in with her team to see how everyone is doing and always has an answer ready for whenever someone needs a little guidance. Brittany has earned the title of Senior Advocate with their years of experience
–Alondra Guzman Crisis Services Supervisor
Brittany is an incredible advocate not just because she is driven and ready to advocate for anything her survivors may need, but because she makes her clients feel like anything is possible. She treats every survivor with such compassion and understanding. She will work to find options and solutions even when there aren’t any. I know any time she’s assigned a client, that client will be SO well taken care of. I have personally seen and heard testimonies from her survivors, whether it’s about getting into law school post assault, or finding new ways to get a service dog certified under CVC, she makes her clients feel capable of facing anything, and I think that is so important . In a system where they are dismissed, told they are broken or not enough, she gives them hope. I hear daily from clients that other organizations don’t even call them back, and knowing Brittany is giving her all plus tenfold and still managing to do senior level work and advocacy is truly incredible. In her personal life, she is a mom to a reactive rescue dog who she has to train essentially full time. She adopted this dog for support but has instead had to spend loads of time building trust with her and working through the dogs past traumas. I only mention this because I see her exhausted after work, but she immediately goes to respecting her dogs boundaries and following the dog for signs of consent and being such a loving mom. As someone who perpetually feels burnt out, I
don’t know how she does it all. I aspire to be like her. She always provides a safe space where clients feel confident sharing their thoughts, and she fosters a relationship where her clients feel comfortable growing and taking their power back. I would say that is what makes Brittany such a light for survivors. She makes them feel seen, heard, supported, and VALIDATED. No matter what the case, she will do everything she possibly can to find a solution or even a resource. She gives the power back to survivors and makes them feel like they are in control again, like they are worthy of growth and happiness. For a lot of folks, this is just a job. Brittany LIVES advocacy. She does this work because she is passionate about it and wants to drive the change for survivors. She is advocating for change in her time off just as much as when shes on the clock. She is consistently championing advocacy efforts whether it be online, in person, or 4 hours away in Springfield. Last spring, she drove there 3 times in 3 months and she still did client work while she was in the midst of that! She is always posting and sharing things on her social media accounts whether it be drives to call legislators, fundraising efforts, Resilience groups for survivors, funding cuts and updates, the list goes on. She is educated on all of the above and takes the initiave to spearhead so many of our efforts. Brittany is passionate about this work.
Our salaries are very small, to the point where it’s almost become unlivable especially with today’s inflation. Brittany refuses to leave unless she has no other choice because she only wants to do this work. She is so invested in advocacy and supporting survivors that she doesn’t want to do anything else, even if it pays a more livable wage. She is dedicated in multiple ways, and I can see the passion she has to work directly with clients. She wants to be in the thick of it so that she can offer that crucial support, and fight back against the discrimination and rape culture that is SO present in all the areas survivors often are entangled with. She’s been here three years which in non profit world is really like ten!! She also was promoted to be our only senior legal and medical advocate last year. We have gone through so much staff due to burnout and she has remained a constant, all the while fighting for balanced working conditions so that we can retain staff. There was a time in Summer 2023 when she was our only legal and medical advocate, compared to our normal 6. She took on extra clients, and advocated as hard as ever and didn’t let that affect her efforts with clients or advocacy at all. In fact, she took on extra to support the team. I literally cannot think of anyone else more deserving of this award because this work is truly her life and her passion. I’ve seen so much growth in her and I cannot wait to see what she does next.
–Alex M, Advocacy Volunteer Supervisor
She/her | Employee | Cleveland Rape Crisis Center
I am honored to nominate Tiffany Kish for recognition as an outstanding advocate. As the Advocacy Manager for the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), Tiffany has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in addressing critical issues related to sexual assault.
Tiffany’s role at SAKI involves overseeing efforts to reform policies and practices concerning the handling of sexual assault kits. Her commitment to justice and her proactive approach have significantly contributed to systemic improvements in this area.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tiffany embodies the qualities of a true leader and aspiring world changer. Her unwavering dedication to advocacy and her ability to inspire those around her make her a deserving candidate for this recognition.
Tiffany has served Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) for more than seven years, and in that time, she has transformed the landscape of justice for survivors of sexual violence.
Her tireless work in collaboration with law enforcement and prosecutors has directly contributed to numerous successful prosecutions and convictions, helping secure justice in cases that, for years, had remained unresolved. Her ability to navigate complex systems while centering survivor needs is a testament to her empathy, strategic mind, and unwavering belief in justice.
Tiffany is more than a manager—she is a changemaker. Her legacy at CRCC and within the broader community continues to inspire her colleagues and uplift survivors. She is absolutely deserving of this recognition as a special advocate.
–Donisha Greene, Senior Director of Strategic Communications
He/him | Employee | Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
Justin truly embodies the values of an advocate. He believes survivors, he creates environments where survivors are welcomed, without judgement, he trusts survivors, and ensures that, in all aspects of our service to survivors, their voice and needs are centered. Justin is also a fantastic supervisor and colleague. He ensures that advocates who support survivors through our 24/7 confidential and anonymous state hotline are supported, and he also advocates for their well-being. He creates structures to ensure that both survivors and advocates are cared for through empathy, dignity, and support.
Justin is respected by his peers and is a fantastic leader who is committed to survivors!
–Merkeb, Co-Executive Director
She/her | Employee | Sexual Violence Center
Allison started at SVC as an intern and quickly stood out as a natural leader. She brings excellent judgment, a grounded and positive attitude, and a constant eagerness to learn and grow. She consistently goes above and beyond, not only in direct service to survivors but also in stepping into leadership roles within the organization.
Most recently, Allison has taken on the coordination of our support groups and has been providing services at the women’s incarceration facility we partner with—work that requires deep compassion, flexibility, and a strong commitment to equity. Her presence is steady, thoughtful, and rooted in care. We are so lucky to have her on our team.
–Ashley Taylor-Gouge, PAVE Intern/2025-2026 CARE Student Staff
Southwestern Advocates
Shout out to all of the advocates who are supporting survivors in the Southwestern United States! A very special thank-you to…
She/her | Employee | Rape Crisis Center of Central NM
She is genuine with everyone, so her desire to help is very clear. She’s amazing.
–Israel, Director of Community Education
She/her | Employee | Sexual Assault Services of Northwest New Mexico
I am honored to nominate Jill for recognition on National Victim Advocate Appreciation Day. With eight years of experience in the field, Jill demonstrates unwavering passion and dedication to every client she serves. She consistently goes above and beyond, tirelessly researching and building connections to ensure that clients receive the support they need, regardless of the obstacles they face. Jill truly embodies what it means to be a dedicated advocate—not only for survivors but also for the staff she leads. Her compassion, determination, and relentless pursuit of solutions have a profound impact on everyone around her.
–Lacey Guinn, Associate Director
She/her | Employee | Arise Sexual Assault Services
Rebecca is always ready to remind survivors of their resiliency and help them find adaptable solutions. She is eager to step in and support the team, especially for programming supporting incarcerated individuals. She is passionate about mental health support for survivors and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work.
–Clairence Oktober, Advocacy Director
She/her | Employee | Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault
Ambar is a natural advocate. She has shown remarkable compassion and empathy for those navigating the trauma of sexual assault. In their role, they have offered a listening ear, guidance, and resources to survivors at every step, whether that means helping them navigate the legal system, accessing medical and mental health care, or simply providing emotional support during moments of fear and uncertainty. Ambar understands that each survivor’s journey is unique and tailors their approach to the specific needs of the individual, making each person feel valued and supported. She demonstrates exceptional dedication to her role with unwavering support and tireless advocacy for survivors of sexual assault. She has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that survivors feel heard, empowered, and supported throughout their healing journey. She takes on new challenges with a positive attitude a commitment to the agencies mission. Their work has had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and the community as a whole.
–Katlyn Monje, Director of SACASA
She/her | Employee | Arise Sexual Assault Services
Rae is Arise’s dedicated PREA Advocate, serving incarcerated survivors in 4 of our six counties. Not only does Rae help survivors who have experienced violence, but every week, Rae is leading Empowerment Groups for incarcerated individuals at a minimum of 2 facilities. She has built this programming from the foundation up in hopes that providing incarcerated individuals with life skills and emotional support will decrease rates of violence and victimization in eastern New Mexico. She helps incarcerated individuals have access to the resources and knowledge outside of the correctional setting that helps them on their healing journey.
–Clairence Oktober, Advocacy Director
North Eastern Advocates
We truly appreciate all of the advocates serving survivors on the East Coast! A very special thank you to…
He/him | Volunteer | HAVEN NH
Devon goes above and beyond in every of his shifts, every staff member really enjoys working with him, he is always very involve in every aspect of the organization as well. He is such a great volunteer for our organization.
–Lorena Wyman, Volunteer Coordinator
She/her | Employee | The Cottage, Sexual Assault Center and Children’s Advocacy Center
Rachel works with survivors from all different backgrounds and is phenomenal when working with individuals experiencing mental health crises. She is able to listen empathetically and de-escalate clients by helping prioritize their needs. Rachel always empowers our clients, meets them where they are at, and will provide them with all of the resources they need. Rachel goes above and beyond to make sure survivors have all the tools and resources to navigate the impact of sexual violence on their mental, physical, and emotional health. She advocates for survivors to receive the care and support they deserve, regardless of the barriers she may encounter along the way.
Rachel leads with empathy and understanding. She does not judge our clients and wants to empower them to find what will be best for their healing process.
–Sarah Still, Director of the Sexual Assault Center
She/her | Employee | ContactLifeline, Inc.
Rebecca is always ready to remind survivors of their resiliency and help them find adaptable solutions. She is eager to step in and support the team, especially for programming supporting incarcerated individuals. She is passionate about mental health support for survivors and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work.
–Patricia, Sexual Assault Volunteer Services Coordinator
She/her | Employee | The Center for Empowerment and Education
Alex works for CEE for over 27 years. Her dedication to our clients goes above and beyond expectation changing the lives of many people every year educating and empowering to move forward despite their challenges.
–Cristina Cabral, Manager of Community Impact
She/they | Employee | Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center
Nicole is an advocate who became an advocate leader and steps up any time one of her direct reports needs her and always jumps in with solutions and kindness!
–Katie, Executive Director
She/her | Employee | Albany County Crime Victim & Sexual Violence Center
Hanna first came to our agency requesting an unpaid internship because she wanted to be in this field so much. She was not in school at the time so she did not even receive school credit. We said yes and she was a phenomenal intern, helpful, pleasant, and capable of taking hotline calls and doing forensic exam accompaniments (the main function of an intern at our agency). She is also a wonderful artist and is always willing to assist with art-related activities for clients. When her internship was almost done, we had a (paid) opening for a crime victim caseworker (criminal court advocate) and offered her the position, which she accepted. She quickly became knowledgeable about the criminal justice system and was able to convey information to clients in a compassionate, understandable manner. After doing criminal court advocacy for a while, she switched to a case manager position in which she is doing more long-term work with clients who need help navigating systems such as social services and family court, obtaining resources like food or medical care, etc. She has continued to do great work in this position and has, again, become very knowledgeable about this aspect of the work. Through her work as an intern, caseworker, and case manager, she has amassed a tremendous amount of information about multiple areas of victim services. She approaches conversations with clients from a place of empathy and compassion and is able to convey sometimes difficult information in a kind and trauma-informed way. As the Director, I received a call from a client wanting me to know what a wonderful advocate Hanna was, and how much she had helped her. It’s not every day you receive a call like that. Some people are just called to be in this field and I can say without a doubt that Hanna is one of them.
–Amanda Wingle, Director
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