OT, but I'm motivated to help, don't know where to start

This surgery has given me a lot of confidence. Confidence to stand up and help others that can't help themselves. I'm wanting to pick up a cause, but don't know how to get started with it. I want to help sexual assault/ rape victims. It's a subject that's very near and dear to my heart. I was molested as a child by my ex stepfather from the ages of 3-12, then I was raped in highschool. I've been seeing all of these sexual assault and rape cases among kids, and my heart just aches. I want to reach out and help, somehow. Even if I just start in my own neighborhood, it would be something. It may be for nothing, but dammit, I want to try. I want people, young and old, to know that there is someone out there who's been through it and survived. That there's nothing to be ashamed of. That there's help.

Anyone have any ideas? I'm on my soapbox and I don't want to get down from it!

This is wonderful!

Call your local rape crisis hotline or women's center -- they surely will have training for volunteers!

This is a lovely example of how new things can open up after WLS -- please let us know where this all takes you! :)

good for you!  try volunteermatch.org

if nothing there in your area, try your local courthouse or police station...they may have some info.  good luck!

Damn gurl, I just wanted to come on here to say I admire your positive outlook on life despite what you've been through in the past.  So sorry to hear about that but I want to tell you to continue to stay strong like you are. 

Ride that soapbox fast gurl!!! 

Thanks everyone! I will check that out!

Bad things happen in this world and in life, but it doesn't make it a bad place to be. :)

My mom was a therapist for rape victims for a long time.  They relied heavily on the help of volunteers.  Call your local rape crisis center and get involved in volunteering.  

Good for you for wanting to get involved in helping!  Sorry you have experience to back it up though.  :(

You happen to live near me and I know for a fact that the MCG Rape Crisis Hotline center is in dire need of volunteers.  You can also participate in the Take Back the Night 5K walk/run on April 20th.  You can register for it on active.com

hope this helps!

Ooooh thanks for the info! That's definitely something I want to do!

I just want to applaud you for putting yourself and your heart out there to help others. It's horrible that any of us goes through assault, but kindness and support from someone who understands will do survivors a world of good.

You are doing such a good thing!