Teaming Up Against Sexual Violence: A Rice County Community Forum October 25, 2005

A chance for community members to gain information and offer ideas about the criminal justice and community response to sexual assault. Patricia Weaver Francisco, author of "Telling: A Memoir of Rape and Recovery" will be reading from her book. A book signing will follow the event.
The Rice County SMART (Sexual Assault Multidisciplinary Action Response Team) is completing a community needs assessment process with a forum open to all community members. Participants will learn about SMART and it's mission and will have the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas regarding sexual assault in Rice County.
The SMART will be utilizing the information gathered at this forum to write response protocols for sexual assault advocates, medical providers, law enforcement, probation officers, county prosecutors and others. This process is designed to increase the collaboration between systems, ensure a victim-centered approach, and encourage successful prosecution of offenders.