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Support Within Reach is a community resource agency that seeks to support survivors of sexual violence and exploitation. Our goal is not only to provide victim support and advocacy.

We have a 24-hour crisis line, medical accompaniment to sexual assault examinations, one-on-one peer support, law enforcement and prosecution advocacy.

We acknowledge and come alongside real people in need of respectful and honest support. We can provide connections with other agencies and professionals that provide supportive services as well.

But what of you, the individual within the community living, working or moving within the same community as those who have had their world forever changed by an uninvited sexual assault encounter?

Can you have an impact on their healing journey? The answer is 鈥� absolutely.

How does one come alongside another person to validate and acknowledge that while you wish they were not in this situation, you want to be there for them?

The first action is to believe. Assure them that it is not their fault. When someone chooses to disclose their experience of violence, believe them.

Often fear, coercion and isolation are experienced by the survivor, but these cannot stop us from reaching into the lives of others. Belief builds a bridge of trust.

Another way to support is to listen without trying to fix it. Listen to what they are saying they need. Do not make assumptions but actively listen. Do they need safety, a place to stay, food, clothes or maybe just a kind ear to hear?

Do not judge. Create a safe space for them to share their story. Support that gives dignity and respect can make all the difference.

Let them lead. It is up to the survivors how they want to navigate their healing journey. Sexual assault is about power and control. We can provide support for how, when and if they choose to report. Seeking medical or other assistance is important, but it needs to be their decision.

Be willing to be uncomfortable. It is not about you but about how they are feeling.

Educate yourself: understand consent and the need for it to be freely offered and respected. Become trauma informed. Recognizing that each person鈥檚 trauma influences their physical wellbeing, behaviors and emotions and will be uniquely their own.

This type of support changes the question from 鈥淲hat鈥檚 wrong with you?鈥� to 鈥淲hat happened to you?鈥�

Help survivors by encouraging self-care, placing value on who they are and what they might need to feel healthy. This can create a stronger sense of self and value. They deserve to move toward healing.

What does the average person, neighbor, coworker or friend do to support or understand how to support from the survivor鈥檚 perspective? Be present, attentive and engaged in a genuine and trusting way.

Kindness does not need an organization; it just needs one person to take small steps to another person to make a big difference.

Sometimes, seeing the humanity of others, we find ourselves.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, we have advocates available to help. Reach out to Support Within Reach at our 24/7 crisis hotlines: (800) 708-2727 in Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard and Cass, or (866) 747-5008 in Itasca and Aitkin Counties.

For more information about Support Within Reach, visit

Malissa Kerr is the Clearwater County advocate and sexually exploited youth coordinator for Support Within Reach.