Hope Harbor*, Lotus*, and Ampersand are collaborating to provide a space for survivors to build community, support each other, share experiences, and build resilience.

We know those who have experienced sexual violence can feel alone and isolated, believing there are not others who would understand. While everyone’s story is different, we believe there is power in community. We invite those who identify as survivors** to join us for our weekly Survivors’ Support Group. There is no attendance policy (so you can come whenever you can or need it) and there is no curriculum (so you won’t feel like you are missing something big when you can’t make it).

This group will meet via Zoom on Monday evenings at 7p (Eastern time) / 6p (Central Time).

A staff member of one of the partnering agencies will moderate the group to incite discussion and ensure the safe space is being honored.

Details

• This is a virtual group that will occurr via Zoom!
• In order to respect the confidentiality of all participants, please attend the retreat in a private space without kids, partners, and other people in the room. 
• You will need access to internet and a device with a microphone and camera (because you will want to be able to see the materials, a computer or tablet works best!) 
• This group is for survivors of sexual violence and over the age of 18. 
• At this time, we are unable to offer language access and accommodation. When this changes, we will make it known.  

*Hope Harbor and Lotus are other rape crisis centers that serve the western and south central Kentucky areas. All three centers are held to the same state and federal standards and regulations regarding privacy and confidentiality. Link to their websites here:

Hope Harbor https://hopeharbor.net/ 

Lotus https://hopehealgrow.org/ 

**What does this mean? Sexual violence experiences fall on a spectrum, and includes harassment, unwanted conversations or pictures, assault, and rape. No matter what your experience is we believe you, your voice matters, and you are welcome in this group.  

Please review these guidelines to ensure this support group is a good fit for you.

• We believe and respect you . We ask that you believe and respect other participants. 
• To honor everyone’s privacy and respect, this group is confidential . Nothing shared during group should be discussed outside of group, this includes names and pictures. 
• When joining the Zoom, we ask that you keep yourself muted when not talking , use headphones if you are able to, and keep your video on. If you are unable to use headphones, we ask that you be in a space alone. If you have any concerns, please contact: Becca Mattingly at bmattingly@ampersandky.org 
• We are sharing feelings, emotions, and outcomes related to trauma. We will not be using graphic language or sharing details of abuse or assault(s) . This is not a processing group.
• Group members will take turns sharing . Keep your contributions on topic to give room for others’ voices. If you don't wish to share, you can always pass.
• Be attentive during group . Avoid distractions such as being on your phone. 
• This group is inclusive and intersectional. All group members will be respectful and affirming of all identities and experiences tied to those identities (i.e. race, gender identity, sexual orientation, class status, national origin).
• Please center yourself in discussion through personal feelings, emotions, and “I” statements. We will not discuss anyone who is not present - this includes other group participants and your own friends or family.
• Not respecting these guidelines, may result in being asked to leave the group. 

If you have any concern about these guidelines or the group experience, please contact Becca at bmattingly@ampersandky.org  

Sexual violence experiences fall on a spectrum, and includes harassment, unwanted conversations or pictures, assault, and rape. No matter what your experience is we believe you, your voice matters, and you are welcome in this group.