Project Anchor is a trauma recovery program that is focused on helping female sexual assault victims who are between the ages of 12-18 years old. This program includes individual and group sessions that are centered on expressing emotions, boosting self-esteem, and teaching resourceful coping skills. Anchor facilitators utilize various methods such as art, games, and other hands on activities aimed at increasing protective factors against already existing risk factors for young survivors.

Challenge

According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network), every 2 minutes, someone in the US is sexually assaulted. 44% of those victims are adolescent victims under the age of 18. Victims of sexual abuse are: 3 times more likely to suffer from depression, 4 times more likely to contemplate suicide, 6 times more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, 13 times more likely to abuse alcohol and 26 times more likely to abuse drugs.

Long-Term Impact

Fair Haven believes that healing from the pain, shame and the after-effects of sexual assault can occur by working a recovery program. Participants will be equipped with tools to overcome the shame and pain of sexual violence. This will lessen the likelihood of depression & suicide. Participants who use adaptive coping skills are least likely to use negative behaviors (truancy/drugs/alcohol). Additionally, all participants have access to the Fair Haven 24/7 crisis line for emotional support.

References

1. http://www.asafeport.org

Additional Documentation

https://www.globalgiving.org//pfil/9400/projdoc.pdf

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