In the United States, 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 6 men experience some form of sexual violence in their life time.

1 in 9 girls and 1 in 53 boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault at the hands of an adult.

In Montgomery County, 270 cases of child sexual abuse or exploitation were reported to Child Protection Services.

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Victim Services Center of Montgomery County (VSC) served 1001 victims of sexual violence.

The above statistics reflect just a small percentage of people who are victims of sexual violence. Many victims do not report or seek services due to feelings of shame, self-bla

me, fear of being judged, not being believed, and or retaliation from offenders. In the case of child victims, the number represents cases reported to child protect services.

VSC is aware that college students, the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, queer or gender nonconforming (LGBTQ) community, elderly, and people with disabilities are also at risk and experience sexual violence.

The Town Hall conversation and discussion forum on Saturday, November 10 (from 2 to 4 p.m.) at Community Partners Center, 2506 N. Broad Street, Colmar, provides an opportunity for us to talk and ask questions about an issue that touches our lives no matter who we are, where we live, our income level or education.  The many incidences of sexual violence in our society which are being highlighted by national, local and social media underscore the reality of sexual violence, a topic that is often not discussed.

In VSC’s expert knowledge and according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, victims of sexual violence suff

er from the effects of sexual violence which may include anxiety, depression, physical and emotional distress, and suicide ideation.  Children may experience developmental delays, emotional and behavioral problems.

Sexual violence affects the significant others, family members and friends of the victim. Left untreated many victims may not be able function in their daily lives, care for their families, go to work, school or attend to other important matters.  VSC’s services which are available at no cost to victims of sexual violence and their significant others, family members and friends will be highlighted.

We encourage you to come and participate in this forum and join us in the conversation.

For more information please go to our website www.victimservicescenter.org/

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