Columbus, OH–OhioHealth’s Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio (SARNCO) is expanding its services into Pickaway County and is calling on local community members to join its efforts as volunteers. The expansion aims to increase access to support for survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
SARNCO provides immediate care to sexual assault survivors at emergency departments throughout the state, offering emotional, legal, social and financial support. Their services also extend beyond hospital settings to aftercare advocacy, connecting survivors to long-term resources.
SARNCO is now focusing on reaching more individuals in Circleville and surrounding areas. OhioHealth sexual violence services manager Terra Purdy emphasized the importance of volunteers in broadening this reach.
“We rely on volunteers to extend our services, and their contributions are often lifesaving for survivors navigating the aftermath of violence,” Purdy explained. “With our expansion into Pickaway County, we’re looking for dedicated individuals who want to make a difference.”
Progress is already underway. Earlier this month, SARNCO delivered specialized training to emergency medical service teams in Pickaway and Ross counties, laying the groundwork for a more comprehensive response to sexual and domestic violence in the region. The training, which was offered to Harrison, Circleville, and Clearcreek Fire Departments, equips first responders with the tools they need to provide immediate, trauma-informed care.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of women and nearly one in three men experience sexual violence in their lifetime, underscoring the need for community-based support networks.
“Survivors often face the challenge of navigating the aftermath of trauma alone, which can be overwhelming,” added Purdy. “Having an advocate by their side to guide them through their options and connect them to resources can be a game changer.”
SARNCO offers a nationally accredited 40-hour training for those interested in becoming volunteers. These sessions occur four times a year and cover topics such as trauma response, safety planning and survivor advocacy. The next training session begins on October 12, spanning five full-day weekend sessions.
“Volunteers play a vital role in SARNCO’s hospital-based and community services,” said Purdy. “They are the first point of contact for survivors in emergency departments, offering emotional support and connecting them to necessary services. Advocates help survivors transition from the hospital to the legal system, assisting with law enforcement and court proceedings, housing support and even medical appointments.”
In collaboration with Deaf World Against Violence Everywhere (DWAVE), SARNCO also offers specialized advocacy for survivors who are deaf.
In addition to hospital advocacy, volunteers can serve as Helpline Advocates, answering SARNCO’s 24-hour Rape Helpline. This role involves offering immediate comfort and guidance over the phone to survivors, as well as their friends and family members.
SARNCO invites those who are passionate about supporting survivors to learn more and apply at www.ohiohealth.com/sarnco. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and undergo a selective application process that includes a background check and interview.
