Dodge & Olmsted Victim Services hosts events to support survivors during Sexual Assault Awareness Month
March 28, 2025
In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April, Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Victim Services is hosting a two-day event on April 4 and 5, 2025 at Floral Hall at Graham Park, 1426 Fairgrounds Ave SE, Rochester. At these events, residents can come together to support survivors and learn how they can help end sexual violence. Food trucks will be onsite both Friday and Saturday.
Survivor centered event – Friday, April 4, 2025, 6 to 9 p.m.
The weekend begins on Friday, April 4 with a special event for survivors. This powerful platform will offer a safe space for survivors to speak, perform in a poetry reading, participate in a Circle of Support, and connect with the community. A Take Back the Night Walk will take place at 8 p.m.
Community event – Saturday, April 5, 2025, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On Saturday, April 5, D&O Victim Services will host a community event to connect residents with local agencies. There will be a resources fair, crafts, and presentations throughout the day for caregivers including a discussion panel from 2- 3 p.m., and a Circle of Support for caregivers.
Workshops will provide details about local and national resources, online safety tips, and tools to help support survivors. Presentations will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Floral Hall.
Presentations will be given by:
- Olmsted County Attorney’s Office.
- Rochester Police Department.
- Mayo Clinic Center for Safe and Health Children and Adolescents.
- Safe Harbor.
- Dodge & Olmsted Victim Services.
- University of Minnesota Extension Office.
- Three Rivers Restorative Justice.
Community involvement
In addition to attending these events, there are several ways the community can show support during Sexual Assault Awareness Month:
- Paint the Town Teal: Businesses are invited to contact Victim Services at 507-328-7270 or email victim.services@olmstedcounty.gov to participate in an awareness campaign where store windows are painted with encouraging teal statements, the color symbolizing support for sexual assault survivors.
- Teal Tuesdays: Community members are encouraged to wear teal or teal ribbons every Tuesday in April to raise awareness and show solidarity.
“These events are designed to foster a deeper understanding of the impact of sexual violence and create a stronger support network for survivors,” said Dodge & Olmsted County Victim Services Program Manager Michelle Olson. “By coming together, we can make a difference and help bring an end to sexual violence.”
Visit the Dodge & Olmsted Victim Services webpage for more information on available services, resources, and ways to support survivors.
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, please call the 24-hour crisis line at 507-289-0636 for confidential support and help.
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Media contact: Emma Diercks, Communications Specialist, 507-328-6166