MALDEN -- April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a nationally recognized time dedicated to raising awareness about and promoting prevention of sexual violence. During this month, The Center for Family Resources, Inc. will be joining with people throughout the state and the nation to focus the public's attention on this important issue.

The U.S. Department of Justice reports that one in six women has been raped at some time in her life and one in thirty-three men has been raped at some point in his life. Of these assaults, at least 80 percent are committed by someone the victim knows, including a current or former partner. In Missouri alone, more than 1,300 forcible rapes were reported to law enforcement in 2007. These statistics leave little doubt that most Americans know at least one sexual assault survivor. Yet, only about 20 percent of survivors report the violent crime of sexual assault to police.

"No one person can eliminate sexual violence on his or her own," said Amy Reed, Executive Director of The Center for Family Resources, Inc. "It takes a community of committed individuals to make a significant impact. The Center for Family Resources, Inc. invites our community to join us this month, and year-round, in taking a stand against sexual violence."

Local activities to raise awareness of sexual violence include a community rally in Malden, MO on April 18, 2008 at Malden High School football field from 6:30pm--9:00pm to raise awareness about Sexual Assault and prevention, in conjunction with recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week and Child Abuse Prevention Month, also this month. The rally will include child identity kits, face painting, a candlelight vigil, kids' activities, and informational booths. Ray Carrillo from Premier Martial Arts will be demonstrating self-defense moves. Food will be available to purchase in the concession stand at the stadium, however, all other activities will be free of charge. In addition, the Center will host a fundraising banquet on April 19, 2008 at the Malden Community Center at 7:00pm to benefit the Center's services and programs to victims. Tickets may be purchased for $20.

For more information on Sexual Assault Awareness Month, contact Stephanie Telker at 573-276-5500 between 8:30 am and 4:30pm. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, confidential help is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-455-9229.

The mission of the Center for Family Resources, Inc. is the prevention and elimination of domestic & sexual violence, child abuse & neglect as it is experience by women and children. The Center is a nonprofit organization serving Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott, and Stoddard Counties