Many people in our community struggle with understanding issues related to sexual violence.  Real-world cases of sexual violence are usually complicated.  It's oftentimes easier to blame the victim for something s/he may or may not have done than to accept that sexual violence can happen to anyone, at anytime, anyplace.  Many victims of sexual assault suffer intense emotional and physical stress and unfortunately, many assaults continue to go unreported.

Our mission is to not only provide support and assistance for survivors of sexual violence, but to prevent sexual violence from occurring.  To accomplish this, we need your help.  The Men's Alliance for Strength and Support is dedicated to changing the attitudes and beliefs that can lead to sexual violence.   Our goal is to develop opportunities for men in our community to influence others and act as agents of change in ongoing sexual violence prevention efforts.   

Unfortunately, in today’s society we have become much too complacent in holding on to the notion that not becoming involved in someone else’s problems or business is the best way to handle ourselves.  Therefore, it is important for us to not only identify social beliefs and attitudes that lead to an atmosphere conducive to, or tolerant of sexual violence, but to change those beliefs and attitudes through educational programs.  It is imperative that we educate our families, our friends and neighbors about the underlying/root causes of sexual violence and the negative impact that it has on our community. 

Listed below are some of the ways you can become involved in reducing sexual and domestic violence:

FOR FAMILIES

There is something that you can actively do to reduce the chance of your loved ones being assaulted in the future:  Education!  MASS can give you the information you and your family need to help reduce the risk of sexual violence in our community.  If you are a parent who is concerned about this issue, but not really sure what to do, we can help.

• To begin with, please visit our about page to educate yourself with basic facts and literature.

• If you feel you need more help, SASS staff members are happy to conduct presentations for community groups about sexual assault and sexual violence prevention.   Even if you don't have a group of people but would like more information, Contact us  

• Also, if you are interested in participating in our community outreach services, contact us and let us know what you would like to do.

FOR STUDENTS AND ATHLETES

Do you do any coaching or teaching?  We can work together to help students and athletes better understand this very important subject.  Young people are often bombarded with inaccurate and dangerous ideas from the media and pop culture.  As mentors and teachers, it is our responsibility to provide our children and young adults with accurate and reliable information that will keep them safe and equip them with the resources they need to prevent sexual violence from affecting their lives.

FOR ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESSES

Sexual violence is a threat, not only to our families and children, but also to our friends and co-workers.  If you want to address sexual assault in your own life, educating your co-workers or associates is a great way to create a safer environment for everyone.  SASS program staff can do prevention presentations for your business or organization as well.

Contact us now if you would like to make your workplace a safer environment for everyone.