END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

With grant funding from the us department of justice, office on violence against women, evawi worked with partners to enhance the seek then speak (sts) program. Sts offers a way for sexual assault survivors and support people to gather information, explore options, and take action - including beginning the process by completing a self-guided interview and documenting information about their assault. This tool increases access for survivors to pursue justice and healing on their own terms. In 2024 evawi continued to forge this new pathway to justice and services for survivors. Evawi staff provided training, support, and technical assistance to professionals on how to integrate sts local responses, and the program is now being offered as an alternative reporting option for survivors.

In 2024, with grant funding from the us department of justice, office on violence against women, evawi worked with partners to promote and expand access to the sexual assault medical forensic examination: a virtual practicum. This interactive training program guides professionals through each step of the medical forensic examination process, from evidence collection and documentation to courtroom testimony. Designed for healthcare professionals, law enforcement, prosecutors, forensic scientists, emergency medical personnel, victim advocates, and other professionals, the virtual practicum serves as a critical tool for strengthening responses to sexual assault. In 2024, 847 new users engaged with the program, logging an impressive 16,516.5 hours of training. This translates to improved evidence collection, enhanced patient care, and ultimately, greater access to justice for survivors. In 2024, evawi launched a new professional membership program, providing professionals with exclusive access to training, resources, and a dynamic network of peers. The program debuted at evawis annual conference and saw rapid growth, reaching 271 members by year-end. Members benefit from exclusive training content, opportunities to exchange ideas and solutions with colleagues, and a professional network for day-to-day challenges.