Dodge & Olmsted Victim Services marks 25th year of Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Restorative Circles are being offered for connection and healing

April 8, 2026

April 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to recognize progress made by advocates and survivors and renew the commitment to preventing sexual violence. This year’s theme, “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward,” honors the strength of survivors and the communities working to create safer environments. 

Upcoming restorative circles 

As part of Sexual Assault Awareness month, Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Victim Services, in partnership with Three Rivers Restorative Justice, is hosting a series of Community Building Restorative Circles to foster awareness, connection, and healing.  

"In restorative circles, we create a place where compassion and accountability meet—where the community listens deeply, responds with integrity, and holds space for the complexity of healing,” said D&O Victim Services Social Worker Specialist Andrea White. “These gatherings remind us that preventing harm and supporting survivors are collective responsibilities. Community building through restorative practices strengthens the threads between us, helps cultivate a community capable of preventing future harm, and upholds a culture where safety and connection are the norm."  

No RSVP is required for the circles and questions can be directed to cynthia.cox@olmstedcounty.gov.

Olmsted County Circle 

  • What: A discussion for community members to learn more about sexual violence. 
  • When: April 14, 2026, 2–3:30 p.m. 
  • Where: History Center of Olmsted County, 1195 West Circle Drive SW, Rochester 

Caregiver Circle 

  • What: Support and information for those who care for victims and survivors of sexual violence. 
  • When: April 21, 2026, 5:30–7 p.m. 
  • Where: The Exchange Co-op, 3945 10th Avenue NW, Rochester 

Victim/Survivor Circle 

  • What: A gathering centered on the healing power of connection between victims/survivors. 
  • When: April 29, 2026, 5:30–7 p.m. 
  • Where: Christ United Methodist Church, 400 Fifth Avenue SW, Rochester 

Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Victim Services provides confidential, compassionate support to people affected by sexual assault and other crimes. Advocates help survivors navigate the legal process, understand their rights, access counseling or financial resources, and obtain protective measures when necessary. 

D&O Victim Services advocates are also available during medical exams and law enforcement interviews to ensure survivors are not alone during difficult moments. Services are available to survivors as well as their families and support networks. 

“Sexual violence impacts people across every community,” explained D&O Victim Services Violence Prevention and Volunteer Coordinator Cynthia Cox. “Our priority is ensuring victim/survivors have access to safety, support, and accurate information.”  

Anyone in need of immediate help can call the D&O Victim Services 24-hour crisis line at 507-289-0636 for confidential support. 

### 

Media contact: Emma Diercks, Communications Specialist, 507-328-6166