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City of Alexandria, VA

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  • Live

    Make the most of Alexandria's outstanding quality of life with information and services of interest to residents.

    • Be Prepared

      Are you ready? Find resources and information to help residents, businesses and visitors to prepare for all types of emergencies, and to stay safe.

      • Flooding Preparedness
      • Snow and Ice Control
      • Hurricane Preparedness
      • Emergency Preparedness
      • Public Health Emergency
    • Community Life

      Learn more about pets and animals, schools and libraries, parks and farmers' markets, community gardens, and more.

      • Community Gardens
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Parks
      • Pets
      • Recreation
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards and Commissions
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • City Academies
      • Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus and Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Historic Preservation

      Historic Alexandria is a treasure trove of early structures, artifacts, and records that creates a unique way of life for its citizens and provides enjoyment for thousands of people who visit this special community every year. The City continues to add resources to its collection of local and nationally designated historic districts.

      • Alexandria History
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Historic Alexandria
      • Historic Districts
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • Building & Construction
      • Business Licenses
      • Health Permits
      • Marriage Licenses
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
    • Parking

      Information about parking in the City of Alexandria, including parking options, enforcement, districts and permits.

      • Contest a Parking Ticket
      • Guest Parking Permits
      • Parking Permits
      • Parking Studies
      • Parking in Old Town
      • Pay a Parking Ticket
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Domestic Violence
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual Assault
      • Substance Abuse Prevention
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving and Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Schools & Libraries

      Did you know that ACPS is one of the most diverse school systems in the country? Our students come from more than 80 different countries, speak more than 60 languages, and represent a myriad of ethnic and cultural groups. The Alexandria Library is an educational, user-oriented service institution providing free public access to recorded knowledge and ideas.

      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Library
      • Child Care
      • Higher Learning
      • Out of School Time Programs
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care Assistance
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Resources
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Utilities

      The City of Alexandria does not operate any public utilities. The following companies are the primary providers of their respective service:

      • Cable TV (Comcast / Xfinity)
      • Drinking Water (Virginia American Water)
      • Electricity (Dominion Energy)
      • Natural Gas (Washington Gas)
      • Sewage/Water Treatment (Alex Renew)
      • Wired Telephone (Verizon)
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  • Play

    Whether you live here or are just visiting, Alexandria is a great place to shop, dine, take in the arts, get outdoors, and just have fun.

    • About Alexandria

      If you are looking for small-town charm and big-city amenities, Alexandria is the place to find them. Alexandria has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today. The City's many historic homes, churches, businesses, and museums allow residents and visitors alike to experience the past that makes it the charming town it is today.

      • Alexandria's History
      • Demographics & Statistics
      • Maps & GIS
      • Visit Alexandria
    • Arts & Culture

      Through engaging the community, encouraging participation, and facilitating access to arts and culture, the City builds a vibrant community for its residents, workers, and visitors.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Historic Property Rentals
      • Museums & Historic Sites
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
      • Office of the Arts
    • Entertainment

      Find events and activities, shops and restaurants, concerts and performances, arts and culture, historic attractions, parks and libraries, farmers' markets, and more.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Office of the Arts
      • Visit Alexandria: Things to Do
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Museums & Historic Sites

      Alexandria is a desirable location to live, work and play. The City owns many of the premier historic sites in Alexandria and it is charged with the conservation, interpretation and promotion of these links to the past.

      • City Museums
      • Historic Sites & Attractions
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront Parks
      • ParkLink Interactive Map
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Visit Alexandria

      Information about visiting Alexandria, including shopping, dining, attractions, accommodations, events listings and more. Plan your visit with an itinerary builder, interactive maps, hotel booking, online restaurant reservations and much more.

      • Group Tours
      • Meet in Alexandria
      • Plan Your Visit
      • Trip Planning Assistance
      • Visitor Center
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  • Services

    We are here to serve you. Browse the topics to the right to learn more about the programs and services we offer.

    • Alex311

      Connect with professional and knowledgeable staff for City service and information requests from every City department.

      • Missed Collection
      • Parking
      • Potholes
      • Street Cleaning
      • Trash & Recycling Containers
      • Trees
      • Yard Waste / Bulky Items Pickup
    • Animals

      What you need to know about animals, pets and wildlife in Alexandria.

      • Animal Adoption
      • Animal Control
      • Dog Parks
    • Buildings & Construction

      The City provides services to residents, businesses, contractors, and visitors needing permits for constructions and other developments.

      • Building Codes
      • City Code
      • Code Administration
      • Green Building
      • Land Use & Zoning
      • Permit Center
      • Permits & Land Use Applications
    • Environment

      "Green" initiatives, air quality, noise, water conservation, mosquito and rodent control.

      • Air Quality
      • Clean Waterways
      • Climate Change
      • Eco-City Alexandria
      • Green Building
      • Mosquito Control
      • Noise Control
      • Rodent Control
      • Stormwater Management
    • Jobs
      • City Government Jobs
      • Alexandria City Public Schools
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Maps & GIS

      Geographic Information Systems (GIS) centrally manages, shares and analyzes information about locations through specialized mapping technology. This information increases transparency, improves many City technology applications and provides critical data to decision makers and the public.

      • Interactive Maps
      • Open Data
      • Standard Maps
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Property & Housing

      The City administers various housing-related programs and services.

      • Housing Master Plan
      • Landlord & Property Manager Resources
      • Maps & GIS
      • Office of Housing
      • Parcel Viewer
      • Real Estate Assessments
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Emergency Mental Health Services
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual and Domestic Violence Services
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving & Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care
      • Children & Families
      • Discrimination & Disabilities
      • Gang & Youth Violence Prevention
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Assistance
      • Human Rights
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Transportation Planning
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  • Business

    Ideally located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and do business on the east coast. Learn how we can help you start or relocate your business in Alexandria, and access resources for existing businesses and commuters.

    • Business Resources

      The City provides services and resources to help existing businesses expand within the City and promotes recruiting new businesses in Alexandria.

      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • BIPOC Small Business Program
      • Doing Business with the City
      • New Business Guide
      • Public-Private Partnerships
    • Jobs

      Alexandria offers wide range of job opportunities and services. Work for City government or City Public Schools, find out about an internship opportunity or learn about workforce development and career training options.

      • City Government Jobs
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • APEX Permitting & Land Use System
      • Business Licenses
      • Business Outdoor Program & Permits
      • Health Permits
      • Permit Center
      • Zoning Information
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Business License Tax
      • Business Personal Property Tax
      • Lodging Tax
      • Meal Tax
      • Payments
      • Real Estate Assessment Search
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Sales Tax
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Getting Around
      • Vehicle Registration
      • GO Alex Commuter Resources
      • Parking in Alexandria
    Close Menu
  • Government

    Learn more about Alexandria's accountable, effective, and well-managed government.

    • City Council

      The Alexandria City Council is composed of a Mayor and six Council members who are elected at-large for three-year terms. The Mayor, who is chosen on a separate ballot, presides over meetings of the Council and serves as the ceremonial head of government.

      • City Council Calendar
      • Communicate with City Council
      • Council Assignments
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Speak at a Meeting
    • Boards & Commissions

      The City of Alexandria has a strong commitment to citizen participation as evidenced by the number of citizen boards and commissions established by City Council. These bodies compose a formal system through which citizens can advise City Council on all major issues affecting the City.

      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Apply for a Board or Commission
      • Boards & Commission Calendar
      • Boards & Commission Vacancies
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Board of Zoning Appeals
      • Planning Commission
      • Park & Recreation Commission
      • Transportation Commission
    • Departments & Agencies

      View a list of City departments, offices and other agencies, and learn about their role in the organization.

      • City Government Departments & Offices
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
      • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA)
      • Alexandria Transit Company (DASH)
      • Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA)
      • Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • Visit Alexandria (Official Tourism Site)
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Police Department
      • Fire Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Courts
      • Office of Emergency Management
      • Emergency & Customer Communications
      • Community Policing Review Board
    • Elected Officials

      Alexandria voters elect a Mayor and City Council and three local officers, as well as state and federal representatives.

      • City Council
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • Commonwealth's Attorney
      • Sheriff
      • Voting in Alexandria
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards & Commissions
      • City of Alexandria Academy Programs
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Transparency

      The City government acts with integrity in an open process, and provides timely access to clear, trustworthy information, presented and employed by all parties from the beginning to the end of the process, including the reasoning that leads to and supports the policy conclusion.

      • Operating Budget & Capital Improvement Program
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Performance Analytics
      • Alexandria's Strategic Plan
      • Race & Social Equity
      • Community Policing Review Board
      • Collective Bargaining
      • City Code
      • Open Data
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  • Projects & Plans

    Much of our work involves creating and improving infrastructure and planning for the future. Learn more about major projects and plans here, and how you can get involved!

    • Arts & Culture

      Information about arts, culture and historic projects in the City.

      • Arts & Culture Master Plan
      • Public Art Implementation Plan
    • Development

      Information about commercial and residential development projects in the City.

      • Landmark/Van Dorn Area Planning
      • North Potomac Yard Implementation / Virginia Tech Innovation Campus
      • Potomac River Generating Station Redevelopment
    • Environmental

      Information about environmental and "green" projects in the City.

      • 500 Block N. Pitt St. Sewer Separation Project
      • Flood Action Alexandria
      • Franklin St. Sewer Relocation Project
      • Holmes Run Trail Repairs
      • Lucky Run Stream Restoration
      • Oronoco Outfall Remediation Project
      • Wheeler Ave. Sanitary Sewer Pipe Relining
      • Windmill Hill Park Project - Phase II
    • Neighborhoods

      Information about neighborhood projects in the City.

      • Alexandria West Planning
      • Duke Street and West Taylor Run Project
      • Eisenhower Avenue Metrorail Station Pedestrian Crossing Improvements
      • King-Callahan-Russell Intersection Improvement Project
      • Mount Vernon Avenue North Complete Streets
    • Parks & Recreation

      Information about parks and recreation projects in the City.

      • Beauregard Street Multi-Use Trail Project
      • Bicycle Parking
      • Eugene Simpson Park Renovation Projects
      • Joseph Hensley Park Renovation
      • Old Cameron Run Trail Project
      • Robinson Terminal South Update: Historic Ship Stabilization
    • Public Facilities

      Information about public facilities projects in the City.

      • Alexandria Waterfront
      • King Street-Old Town Metro Access Improvement Project
      • Municipal Broadband
      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
    • Social Services

      Information about social services projects and plans in the City.

      • Aging and Adult Services
      • Early Care & Education Common Agenda
      • The Partnership to Prevent & End Homelessness
    • Transportation

      Information about transportation projects and plans in and around the City.

      • Adaptive Traffic Signal Control
      • Alexandria Mobility Plan
      • Complete Streets
      • Duke Street in Motion
      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
      • Smart Mobility
      • Traffic Mitigation
      • Vision Zero
      • West End Transitway
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  • Calendar

    There's always something to do in Alexandria! Browse community events, government meetings and activities, and important deadlines.

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    • Apply
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Sexual Assault Center

The program offers support to victims of sexual assault and their families and friends. Trained volunteers and staff are available 24 hours a day.
Page updated on October 26, 2022 at 9:09 AM

Contact

We are here 24/7. Call us at 703.683.7273 (Sexual Assault Hotline) or 703.746.4911 (Domestic Violence Hotline).  You can also find confidential crisis support and chat online at The National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.

Domestic Violence, LGBTQ & Sexual Assault Menu

  • Department of Community & Human Services
  • Resources for Domestic Violence, LGBTQ and Sexual Assault
  • Domestic Violence Program
    • Domestic Violence Shelter Donations
  • Sexual Assault Center
  • Stalking
  • LGBTQ Community, Task Force and Resources

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About the Alexandria Sexual Assault Center

The program offers support to victims of sexual assault and their families and friends. Trained volunteers and staff are available 24 hours a day to provide:

  • crisis intervention and emotional support
  • advocacy with medical, police, and court systems
  • short-term individual and group counseling
  • information and referrals

In addition to services for individuals, the staff is also available to provide trainings, information, and presentations to local schools and organizations.

The Sexual Assault Center offers information and support for:

  • sexual assault (i.e. rape, attempted rape, fondling, indecent exposure, etc.) survivors and their family and friends
  • sexual harassment and stalking victims
  • women and men of any age, race, ethnicity, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical ability, etc.

Many services are offered in both English and Spanish.  Staff and volunteers use a confidential translation service to support survivors who speak other languages. View or download  Sexual Assault Center and Domestic Violence Program Client Rights and Responsibilities.

Donate to the Sexual Assault Center 

Donations will assist efforts to empower and support families affected by sexual assault.

EXIT PAGE

About Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is an act of sexual violence and aggression which occurs when a person forces, threatens, or coerces an individual into sexual contact without his/her consent. Sexual assault is committed primarily out of anger and/or a need to feel powerful by controlling, dominating, or humiliating the survivor. Examples of sexual assault include rape, sodomy, fondling, indecent exposure, peeping Toms, obscene phone calls, childhood sexual abuse, and sexual harassment.

  • People of any age can be victims of a sexual assault.
  • Sexual assault happens to women, men and children.
  • People of any sexual orientation or gender identity can be victims of sexual assault.  LGBTQ people are often targeted for sexual assault and experience an increased risk for sexual violence victimization.
  • Approximately 80% of all sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows, such as a friend, spouse, family member, date, coworker, or neighbor.
  • One in four females, and one in six males, will be sexually assaulted before age 18.

Survivors of sexual assault may experience a variety of after-effects in unique and individual ways. A survivor may feel:

  • Loss of control of her/his life
  • Anger
  • Fear
  • Distrust
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Guilt and self-blame - feeling responsible for the assault
  • Some survivors find it hard to concentrate, have difficulty sleeping, and may experience mood swings and changed eating patterns. 

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Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Support During COVID-19

COVID-19 is having a dramatic effect on our daily lives. During a crisis like this, the risk for intimate partner and domestic violence increases and may happen at higher rates. Survivors are also at an increased risk for violence and may need additional services.

You are not alone.

The Alexandria Sexual Assault Center and Domestic Violence Program are open during the COVID-19 outbreak. The hotlines are available 24/7, and advocates are ready to listen and help. Our mission has not changed: we are here to assist people who are experiencing or have experienced violence in the short and long term. 

We are here 24/7. Call us at 703.683.7273 (Sexual Assault Hotline) or 703.746.4911 (Domestic Violence Hotline).  You can also find confidential crisis support and chat online at The National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.

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Easy-to-Share Resources

  •  20 Empowering Young Adult Novels
  • Staying Safe at Home | Spanish | Arabic | Amharic
  • Assistance from a Distance: How to Access DCHS Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic  | Spanish  | Amharic | Arabic
  • Raise Your Voice to Help Neighbors at Risk of Abuse and how to recognize signs of abuse in children and adults | Spanish | Amharic | Arabic 
  • Embrace Your Voice: A Virtual Poetry Share. The City of Alexandria Sexual Assault Center, Friends of Guest House and Doorways for Women and Families co-hosted   Embrace Your Voice, a virtual poetry share event on Facebook, honoring survivors of sexual assault. Works written by survivors were read and shared; the poem playlist is available online. 

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General Resources During COVID-19

  • For up-to-date health-related information on COVID-19, visit alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 
  • Resources to Meet Basic Needs for Those Impacted by the Coronavirus COVID-19 Response. Learn about economic resources and assistance, ranging from food and rental assistance to assistance for pet owners and car payment relief.
  • Your Rights as a Tenant During COVID-19 Outbreak. Learn your rights as a tenant and who to call if you are facing eviction.

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Mask Wearing for Survivors

  • Tips for People Who Have Been Choked, Strangled, or Hurt in a Way That Made It Hard to Breathe. Covering our faces is uncomfortable for all of us, but it’s especially hard for people hurt by their partners. It might seem impossible because it reminds you of what happened or could be uncomfortable seeing others in masks. This one-page flyer from the  Ohio Domestic Violence Network and the Center on Partner-Inflicted Brain Injury covers why it is important tolerate wearing face makes and how to find ways to reduce the stress or anxiety that you might experience wearing a mask. 
  • Tips on Managing Stress and Internal Upset Caused by Mask Wearing for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, from the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, explores why we can have a stressful reaction to mask wearing and provides several examples of breathing and grounding that may decrease anxious feelings and trauma reactions when you have to wear a mask in public places.
  • Embrace Your Voice: A Virtual Poetry Share. The City of Alexandria Sexual Assault Center, Friends of Guest House and Doorways for Women and Families co-hosted   Embrace Your Voice, a virtual poetry share event on Facebook, honoring survivors of sexual assault. Works written by survivors were read and shared; the poem playlist is available  online.

EXIT PAGE

Coping and Managing Stress and Anxiety

  • Self-Care Tool Chest
  • 10 Podcast Recommendations for Resilient Women to Try Today
  • Coping with COVID-19 Fear and Uncertainty (also available in  Amharic,  Spanish and  Arabic). Fear and anxiety about COVID-19 can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Taking care of yourself, your friends and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.
  • COVID-19 Wellness Resource Guide. A growing list of resources for self-care, managing stress and anxiety, and coping resources for individuals, parents, children, families and responders to help with the life changes and heightened stress and anxiety as a result of COVID-19.
  • Staying Safe During COVID-19. Learn how to create a safety plan, practice self-care and reach out for help.
  • Mantenerse seguro durante COVID-19
  • How can parents find safe child-care in emergencies? Guidance about how to safely approach emergency care needs for children.
  • 7 Ways Survivors of Sexual Violence Can Practice Self-Care When Retraumatized During Tragedy. Useful information during any high-stress time where retraumatization can occur.
  • Learn the Basics of Consent. A two-minute video covering the basics of asking for consent.
  • I Ask for Digital Consent. A one-minute video illustrating how consent should be a part of your interactions with others when you are texting or using social media.

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How You Can Help Support Survivors

Have a friend or loved one who is a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence? Read guidance on how you can support them:

  • Supporting survivors and victims of sexual assault.

  • Supporting survivors and victims of domestic violence.

Take a quiz:

  • Are you a Victim?

  • Do You Know the Basics of Consent? An online quiz putting your consent skills to the test. 

  • Donate to the Domestic and Sexual Violence Programs or donate items for the shelter.
  • Educate yourself and others. Read and share the resources on this page. Learn more about sexual assault and domestic violence and ways you can help:
  • Information on COVID-19 for Survivors, Communities and DV/SA Programs

  • Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance

  • Resources on the Response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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If You Have Just Been Sexually Assaulted

  • Get to a safe place. If you are in danger or want to report the incident, call for immediate police assistance at 911.
  • Contact someone to help you— a friend, the police, the Sexual Assault Center. A Sexual Assault Center advocate is available to talk with you about safety and any other concerns. They will also accompany you to the hospital and police station, if you choose to report the assault. To speak with an advocate contact the Alexandria Sexual Assault Hotline at 703.683.7273.
  • Get medical attention right away. You have the right to choose whether or not to report this to the Alexandria Police Department. Regardless of that decision, you can have a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE nurse) collect evidence through the use of a Physical Evidence Recovery Kit (PERK). The evidence collection will be done along with a medical exam that will address your medical needs. A medical exam is very important for your health. Keep in mind that you may have injuries of which you are unaware.  Medical personnel can talk with you about your options for the prevention of pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.
  • If possible, do not shower, drink or eat, douche or change your clothes. These activities destroy physical evidence that can be used if you choose to report the assault to the police. It is also important to avoid moving or changing anything at the scene, if appropriate. If you choose to press charges, the police will need to examine the scene for evidence. A Sexual Assault Center advocate is available to accompany you at the hospital 24/7; all it takes is a call to the hotline at 703.683.7273.

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Following a Sexual Assault

Emotional reactions: 

  • Long after the assailant leaves, the effects of the assault may still be with you. The crime has medical, legal and emotional aftereffects which may take weeks, months or years to resolve. During the months following an assault, survivors may continue to experience a wide range of emotions such as fear, distrust, anger, shame, humiliation, and guilt. Some may also believe that there is something wrong with them because they are continuing to have difficulties long after the assault.  Remember that there is no typical "time line" for survivors to heal. 
  • The reality is that everyone recovers at a pace and in a manner that is unique and appropriate to them. Recovery from sexual assault occurs in stages and is very subjective; what one person considers recovered another might not. After several months you may find that acute symptoms, such as nightmares or flashbacks, have lessened or disappeared, while other symptoms, such as higher levels of anxiety and fear, may persist for some time. Survivors may find that certain times and/or events - particularly the anniversary day of the assault - trigger some of these feelings. While it may be frustrating to be experiencing these symptoms of trauma long after the assault, gradually they will decrease in frequency and change in character.
  • The ways that survivors handle feelings and reactions will vary. Some try to block intense emotions by becoming very busy while others deal with these feelings by talking about the assault frequently. Some are afraid of crowded situations and prefer to keep to themselves, while others are afraid to be alone. It is important to not become isolated, but the manner and pace in which you deal with these feelings and reactions should be one that is comfortable for you.

Getting Support 

  • Talking about the assault and developing a network of support can be a very important part of the healing process. For some people, talking with friends and family is most helpful. Some people may prefer speaking with a trained counselor. A counselor can also help you to build a support network and consider the ways in which the people in your life can be helpful. Some people think that asking for help is a sign of weakness. Others see it as making use of available resources and expertise, recognizing that most people are not naturally prepared to handle a sexual assault.
  • Many have found support and understanding in talking with other survivors through a support group. Group members discover that they are not alone - that others have felt the same way they do. It is also a chance to share ideas of what has been helpful for recovery. In addition, some have found it helpful to take a self-defense class and/or learn about risk reduction and ways to increase their sense of safety.

Remember... 

  • Recovery takes time
  • It was not your fault
  • Being vulnerable or intoxicated is not an excuse for someone to assault you
  • Rape or sexual assault is not an act of sex or lust - it is about aggression, power, humiliation
  • Complying and cooperation is not the same as consent
  • Sometimes cooperating or complying is the safest thing to do
  • Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. This includes proper eating, rest and relaxation, doing nice things for yourself, and asking for help.  

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Virtual Dating App Safety and Education Presentation

Do you know how to stay safe using dating apps? Watch this free presentation on dating app safety and view or download a list of tips on how to safely use dating apps.

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Sexual Harassment

  • Sexual harassment is unwanted and unwelcome sexual behavior. Sexual harassment may result from words or conduct of a sexual nature that offend, stigmatize, demean, frighten, or threaten you because of your sex.
  • Sexual harassment is defined by the person being targeted. The target of sexual harassment and the perpetrator (the one doing the harassing) do not have to agree about what is happening.
  • Sexual harassment can happen once or many times. Being the target of sexual harassment may make it scary to go to work/school or hard to concentrate. Incidents of sexual harassment may cause the target to feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or threatened.
  • Employers and school district officials are legally responsible to guarantee a safe environment which is free from sexual harassment and sex discrimination.
  • Some forms of sexual harassment are also crimes and should be reported to the police so that the perpetrator(s) can be prosecuted.

What Can I Do?

Tips If You Feel You Are the Target of Sexual Harassment 

  • Let the harasser know you don't like the behavior or comments. If you feel safe and comfortable doing so, tell the harasser that his or her behavior bothers you and that you want it to stop.
  • Tell someone and keep telling until you find someone who believes you. Find supporters and talk with them about what's happening. The point is to find someone you can trust.
  • Do not blame yourself for sexual harassment. Harassment is unwanted and can make you feel trapped, confused, helpless, frustrated, embarrassed, and scared. You certainly did not ask for any of those feelings.
  • Keep a written record of the incidents: what happened, when, where, who else was present, and how you reacted. Save any notes or pictures you receive from the harasser.
  • Go to a supervisor or school staff member. If you feel uncomfortable, it is okay to bring a coworker, friend or parent with you to that meeting.   

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For Friends and Loved Ones

A friend or a loved one who has been sexually assaulted may confide in you right after the assault or many years later. As someone close to a survivor, you can offer invaluable assistance and can make a significant difference in her/his recovery.

Ways to Help 

  • Listen...then listen some more. Let them know you are available whenever they are ready - which may be weeks, months, or years later.
  • Let them express their feelings. Focus on listening instead of offering advice or asking questions.
  • Don't minimize feelings or concerns or pretend that the assault wasn't serious.
  • Believe her/him. This includes believing that their actions during the assault were correct.
  • Let them make their own choices. You may help think about options, but let them make the decision.
  • Reassure him/her it was not their fault.
  • Be available, yet be realistic. Let them know how much support you can give. You will be more helpful if you are realistic in your commitments.
  • Respect their pace in healing, including sexual intimacy. Let them take the initiative.
  • Learn about sexual assault.
  • Respect her/his privacy. The survivor should be the one to decide who should know about the sexual assault and how they should be told. Do not tell anyone without the survivor's permission.
  • Ask how you can help.

Take care of yourself. Be aware that this may be a crisis for you too, and you may experience a variety of emotions. Not addressing your own feelings may make it difficult to offer strength and support to the survivor. The services of the Sexual Assault Center are available to the significant others of an assault survivor. Contact the Sexual Assault Center hotline at: 703.683.7273.  

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Support Groups

Survivors of sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse sometimes find it helpful to talk about their feelings with others who have had similar experiences. All groups are time limited and address a variety of issues related to sexual violence. Discussion topics may include: guilt, shame, fear, anger, trust, self-esteem and relationships with family and friends. Listed below are groups offered throughout the year by the Sexual Assault Center. The times and dates are subject to change, and this web page will be updated accordingly. Unless otherwise noted, all groups will be held at the Sexual Assault Center at 123 North Pitt Street, Suite 225 in Alexandria. Please call the Sexual Assault Hotline at 703.683.7273 for more information or to register for a group or class.

*Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes 

Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Assault: This is an eight-week group for survivors who were sexually assaulted as children. Address the impact that the sexual abuse has had on survivors’ lives and explore methods that survivors may use to help them cope with and heal from the abuse. All group members must be receiving individual therapy or case management services while in the group.  All members will meet with a Sexual Assault Center group facilitator before group begins.

Adult Survivors of Sexual Assault: This is an eight-week group for survivors who were sexually assaulted as adults. This group will explore the impact that sexual assault has had on survivors’ lives and will address topics connected to healing from the assault. All members must meet with a Sexual Assault Center group facilitator before group begins.

The Non-offender Caregiver support group: This is a psycho educational group appropriate for caregivers of alleged victims of sexual abuse. The group creates a safe space for caregivers to identify and express their feelings regarding their child’s abuse. Parents should expect an increase of knowledge about sexual abuse and how it affects the victim and their families. 

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Prevention, Education and Awareness

The Sexual Assault Center is dedicated to building a safer community where no one has to be a victim or perpetrator. Our Prevention and Education Program is designed to build awareness of the prevalence of this issue on a national and local level among Alexandrians in an effort to stop sexual violence before it occurs. In addition, we aim to change negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that lead to sexual violence. The Sexual Assault Center reaches out to schools, youth servicing organizations as well as adult civic associations and military within Alexandria to provide free prevention presentations on an array of topics. These topics include but are not limited to prevention, awareness, healthy relationships, sexual harassment and bystander intervention of sexual violence. Behind education, taking a stand against violent and oppressive behaviors is the first step towards preventing sexual assault. Respecting individuals, encouraging independent thought, and demanding justice are key to building a violence-free society. To schedule a free presentation for your organization please call the Sexual Assault Center at 703.746.3118.

Prevention: Preventing sexual violence starts with building awareness in the community on the issues of sexual harassment and sexual violence and focusing on those committing the act. The goal of prevention programs is to provide the tools and resources to help reduce or diminish risk factors and to strengthen protective factors. Understanding and challenging belief systems that blame the victim and protect the rapist are key in achieving a violence-free community.

Bystander Intervention: Bystander intervention addresses the behaviors of others—  the friends, families, teachers, clergy, coaches and witnesses that surround any act or pattern of abuse. This training will discuss the concept of bystander intervention along with shifting the responsibility away from just the victim and perpetrator to provide a space for individuals outside these roles to join the movement. Placing responsibility on the community as a whole will prevent more acts from escalating to the point of sexual violence. In addition, this training offers strategies for being proactive, addressing the behaviors before sexual violence has been perpetrated in the first place, and reactive, addressing the behavior as an intervention response to an act of violence that has already been perpetrated. Educating and creating community awareness on how to prevent sexual violence will create a community culture where people will be more willing to speak up and say or do something when there is an opportunity to act.

Social Ecological Model

 

The Alexandria Sexual Assault Center strives to work from the Social Ecological Model. This model considers the complex interplay between individual, relationship, community, and societal factors. It allows us to understand the range of factors that put people at risk for violence or protect them from experiencing or perpetrating violence. While we recognize that risk reduction may be beneficial at times, the focus is on potential victims, which may impose an unjust burden for individuals to carry in preventing perpetration against their person. People often ask what they can do to keep themselves safe. Yet, it is important to remember that whether or not risk reduction and/or safety tips are taken, a victim is NEVER responsible for preventing their assault. Below is a list (Table 1) of potential risk factors that may contribute to the perpetration of gender based violence, including sexual assault. However, this is not meant to be an exhaustive list, but rather a resource to increase your knowledge and understanding of the various influences.

Risk Factors for Violence

While risk factors help us to understand underlying root causes which support sexual violence, recognizing protective factors is an integral component. The Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance describes protective factors as the conditions or characteristics that decrease the likelihood of SV/IPV perpetration, while also facilitating a broad range of related positive outcomes. A single protective factor does not necessarily directly prevent SV/IPV, but the presence of multiple protective factors decreases the chance of perpetration. The protective factors illustrated in the chart below are outline factors following the Social Ecological Model:

Social Ecological Chart

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Domestic Violence and LGBTQ Services

Learn about Domestic Violence services and LGBTQ resources.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are an integral part of the Sexual Assault Center. After a comprehensive 40 hour training course, volunteers may become advocates. Volunteers respond to the 24-hour hotline on evenings and weekends. They provide emotional support and information to assist victims in regaining control of their lives. Volunteers also accompany victims of sexual assault to the police department and/or hospital.

Requirements are:

  • 21 years or older
  • Have reliable transportation to INOVA Fairfax Hospital (not metro accessible)
  • 40 hours of training plus 12 hours of shadow shift
  • Commit to minimum of two 12-hour shifts per month
  • Ability to work with numerous community response teams
  • Ability to work calmly and independently at hospital
  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Background Check required.

If you are interested in more information about volunteering, call 703.746.3127 to speak to the volunteer coordinator. See the volunteer application.

Community Education: Presentations and workshops on sexual assault and related topics are offered to community groups. This includes presentations for youth, adults and Spanish-speaking audiences. Other community education events include Denim Day, and Messages of Hope campaign held each April, which is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Presentations are available upon request. To schedule a presentation for your group please call a prevention specialist at the Sexual Assault Center at 703.746.3118. 

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Resources and Related Links

Alexandria 

  • Alexandria Domestic Violence Shelter (703.746.4911)
  • Alexandria Police Department, Non-Emergency (703.746.4444)
  • Alexandria Child Protective Services (703.746.5800, local) (1.800.552.7096, national)
  • Alexandria Hospital ER (703.504.3066)
  • Alexandria Victim Witness Assistance Program (703.746.4100)
  • Alexandria Adult Protective Services (703.746.5778)

Arlington 

  • Doorways for Women and Families (703.228.4848)

Fairfax 

  • Office for Women & Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (703.360.7273)
  • INOVA Fairfax Hospital Emergency Room (703.776.3116)

Washington DC  

  • DC Rape Crisis Center (202.333.7273)

Virginia 

  • Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline (1.800.838.8238)

Additional Reading 

  • Preventing Sexual Assault on College Campuses
  • The Relaxation & Stress Reduction Workbook, Martha Davis, PhD; Elizabeth Robbins Eshelman, MSW; Matthew McKay, Ph.D.
  • Healing From Trauma, Jasmin Lee Cori, MS, LPC
  • The Body Remembers, The Psychophysiology of Trauma & Trauma Treatment (for professionals), B. Bothschild
  • 8 Keys to Safe Trauma Recovery: Take Charge Strategies to Empower Your Healing (for survivors), B. Rothschild
  • Coping with Trauma-Related Dissociation: Skills Training for Patients and Therapists, S. Boon, K. Steele, O. Van Der Hart
  • Healing from Trauma: A Survivor's Guide to Understanding Your Symptoms and Reclaiming Your Life, J.L. Cori.  
  • The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
  • Superando el dolor/ Overcoming the Pain: Un libro para y acerca de adultos abusados en la ninez, Eliana Gil

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