Sassl

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Overview

The Sexual Assault Survivor's Support (SASSL) is a Pro-Survivor, Pro-Feminist, Pro-Diversity Organization. It exists to provide unbiased and non-judgemental peer support and referrals to survivors of sexual violence. SASSL provides a 24 hour crisis line, referrals, public education and fund raising.

History

Who are we?

York University's Sexual Harassment Education and Complaint Centre (SHEACC) realized the need to have an emergency service available to survivors of sexual assault. With the support of York University's administration, SASSL was formed in 1995. SASSL has received funds from the Campus Safety for Women Grant, the Work Study Program and the Graduate Assistant Program. In March 1999, SASSL was voted by York students to receive a $2.10 tuition levy to maintain the presence of this important organization on campus.

What do we stand for?

Pro-survivor; We exist as a support network for all survivors of sexual assault , both male and female. We never question the legitimacy of a caller's experience. Pro-diversity; We recognize and respect the different experiences that survivors from similar and different backgrounds face due to race, religion, ethnicity, sex, ability, and/or sexual orientation. Pro-feminist; we recognize that there is an disparity of power in our society between men and women. We also work to provide an equally effective and respectful service for survivors.

Sexual Assault

What you should know

Sexual assault can happen to anyone, anywhere regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, education, culture, ability, socio-economic background, etc. Sexual Assault is any unwanted advance, phrase, gesture, implied meaning, touch, or any other sexual act to which you have not consented. It also includes when someone is forced to perform sexual acts against their will. Sexual Assault violates a person's boundaries, trust and feelings of safety. It is defined by a lack of consent not by the act itself. Consent is the voluntary agreement of a person to engage in sexual activity. It is expressed permission, agreement and approval that is freely given.

Sexual Harassment is any behaviour, comment, gesture or contact of a sexual nature that could be considered objectionable or offensive. It includes implicit and explicit sexual coercion, sexist comments and/or sexual innuendo.

Volunteers

Volunteers at SASSL are an integral part of our student-run organization. It is only through the countless hours contributed by the many selfless volunteers that this service has achieved some of its original goals. SASSL volunteers are needed to provide support and referrals over our crisis line, participate in educational outreach seminars at schools in the area and on campus, and help raise funds for valuable services such as the women's shelter on campus. By volunteering for SASSL you give yourself the opportunity to make new friends, participate in volunteer social events, and get that warm, fuzzy feeling inside!

And we only ask that you commit 4 hours of your time each week during our Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm office hours. Once you feel comfortable with taking calls, you will also be offered the chance to take the occasional overnight or weekend shift, if you are interested. We normally hold training sessions for volunteers in September and January. If you would like more information on training dates and volunteer applications please contact us at 416-736-2100 ext 40345 or drop by our office Room B449 Student Centre.

Outreach

Education and information exchanges are vital components of SASSL's work and growth, in order to maintain contact with all sectors of public and private organizations. Our goal is to provide education to York University's community with regard to the issues surrounding assault on campus. Our educational teams participate in regular workshops within high schools and throughout the York community. Our goal is to aid survivors of sexual violence. Through education, referrals and support, SASSL works towards ending sexual violence within York University community.

Referrals

Within the university

Outside the university

Contact details

Crisis Line 416-650-8056
Office Line: 416-736-2100 ext.40345
Fax Line: 416-650-8051
Email: sassl@yorku.ca
Office Located 4th Floor of the Student Room B449
Office Hours Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

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