We’re here to help. 24/7.
Contact us for free, confidential support at any time, 365 days a year. We are always here for you.
A safer Philadelphia, for better tomorrows.
For 50 years, WOAR – Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence has provided an empathetic ear, a caring heart and a helping hand to anyone who has experienced sexual violence recently, or at any time in their life. Each year, we helped thousands of survivors of sexual violence in Philadelphia through our hotline and in-person support and advocacy.
WOAR is here for survivors of sexual harassment, abuse, and assault because generous donors, like you, made it possible. Generosity gives everyone the power to make a positive change in the lives of others. WOAR is here because you make it possible!
Please stand with us by making a donation to WOAR.
Get the support you need.
WOAR offers crisis support and resources for specific communities. Find guidance to get the help you
need, or discover resources to help someone in need of crisis support.
You are not alone.
We’ve been there.
“When I was put in a fight or flight situation, I did neither. I froze. And I want to make it clear to other survivors that froze, you made it out alive. Your body protected you the best it could. You did everything right, and now you are a survivor. A SURVIVOR. Also, survivors of this kind of trauma should always remember it is never your fault. You did not choose this – no matter what people say or don’t say.”
Isabella, Survivor and Volunteer
Sexual violence can affect anyone, but systemic oppression increases the risk for marginalized communities. From sex trafficking to abuse within intimate partnerships, the statistics highlight a pattern of exploitation targeting those with fewer resources and less power.
At @woarphila, we are committed to ending sexual violence by providing specialized treatment, prevention education, and advocacy—fighting for the rights of all survivors, especially those most at risk.✊🏾✊🏿✊🏼✊🏽✊🏻
Together, we can create a safer world by addressing the root causes of sexual violence and supporting those affected.💙💜
#SAAM2025 #SupportSurvivors #EndSexualViolence #SexualAssaultAwareness
Image description:
Slides include a light-blue background with a soft overlay of pinkish-purple.
Slide 1: Sexual Violence and Increased Risk for Marginalized Communities.
A horizontal row of diverse figures positioned along the bottom edge of the image.
Slide 2: Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, or economic status. However, certain groups of people are more vulnerable and face increased risk to violence.
Let’s look at how specific groups experience sexual violence differently.
Slide 3:
40% of confirmed sex trafficking survivors in the U.S. are African-American
Native Americans are at the greatest risk of sexual violence out of all racial groups
LGBTQ+ people are nearly 4x more likely to experience violent crimes including sexual assault than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts
Transgender individuals are nearly 4x more likely to experience sexual violence than cisgender individuals
continued image description in replies!
Sexual violence can affect anyone, but systemic oppression increases the risk for marginalized communities. From sex trafficking to abuse within intimate partnerships, the statistics highlight a pattern of exploitation targeting those with fewer resources and less power.
At @woarphila, we are committed to ending sexual violence by providing specialized treatment, prevention education, and advocacy—fighting for the rights of all survivors, especially those most at risk.✊🏾✊🏿✊🏼✊🏽✊🏻
Together, we can create a safer world by addressing the root causes of sexual violence and supporting those affected.💙💜
#SAAM2025 #SupportSurvivors #EndSexualViolence #SexualAssaultAwareness
Image description:
Slides include a light-blue background with a soft overlay of pinkish-purple.
Slide 1: Sexual Violence and Increased Risk for Marginalized Communities.
A horizontal row of diverse figures positioned along the bottom edge of the image.
Slide 2: Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, or economic status. However, certain groups of people are more vulnerable and face increased risk to violence.
Let’s look at how specific groups experience sexual violence differently.
Slide 3:
40% of confirmed sex trafficking survivors in the U.S. are African-American
Native Americans are at the greatest risk of sexual violence out of all racial groups
LGBTQ+ people are nearly 4x more likely to experience violent crimes including sexual assault than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts
Transgender individuals are nearly 4x more likely to experience sexual violence than cisgender individuals
continued image description in replies!
Earlier this week, WOAR hosted our Teal Reception in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The event brought together our dedicated team of advocates, Board of Directors, and local community partners — all united in support of our mission.
We were honored to hear from a powerful lineup of speakers, including @shariea_shoatz from WOAR’s Survivor Advocate Program, Interim Executive Director Dr. Indira Henard, Councilmembers @cmninaahmad and @nicorourkephl, Representative Morgan Cephas, and @phillyodvs
Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to stand with survivors during #SAAM2025 and all throughout the year
Earlier this week, WOAR hosted our Teal Reception in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The event brought together our dedicated team of advocates, Board of Directors, and local community partners — all united in support of our mission.
We were honored to hear from a powerful lineup of speakers, including @shariea_shoatz from WOAR’s Survivor Advocate Program, Interim Executive Director Dr. Indira Henard, Councilmembers @cmninaahmad and @nicorourkephl, Representative Morgan Cephas, and @phillyodvs
Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to stand with survivors during #SAAM2025 and all throughout the year
As SAAM continues on we have a few words from WOAR`s Interim Executive Director, Dr. Indira M. Henard. Know that as WOAR continues our work we remember that to truly support survivors, we must confront the systems that harm them. Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, ageism, religious discrimination, and all forms of oppression have no space in gender-based violence work. #saam2025 #SupportSurvivors #intersectionaljustice
As SAAM continues on we have a few words from WOAR`s Interim Executive Director, Dr. Indira M. Henard. Know that as WOAR continues our work we remember that to truly support survivors, we must confront the systems that harm them. Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, ageism, religious discrimination, and all forms of oppression have no space in gender-based violence work. #saam2025 #SupportSurvivors #intersectionaljustice
💙 Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a time to amplify voices and spread awareness about the reality of sexual violence. Every 68 seconds, someone is sexually assaulted in the U.S. Let’s join together to create safer communities and support survivors.
💜 If you or someone you know was assaulted, please seek help—whether it’s from a trusted person or a hotline. You are never alone.
📞 WOAR 24-hour Hotline: 215-985-3333
You are believed. You are valid. You matter.
#SAAM2025 #EndSexualViolence
Image description: Dark teal-blue background with text overlayed.
Slide 1: Every 68 seconds, a U.S. resident is sexually assaulted.
Slide 2: What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault happens when someone intentionally touches another person sexually without their consent, or coerces a person to engage in a sexual act without their consent.
Forms of sexual assault include: Rape or attempted rape
Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
Forcing someone to perform sexual acts
Slide 3: Who is sexually assaulted?
According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (2018):
1 in 6 women experienced sexual coercion and 1 in 5 women experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetime.
1 in 10 men experienced sexual coercion and 1 in 14 men were made to penetrate someone during their lifetime.
Slide 4: Increased risk for marginalized communities: LGBTQ+ people are nearly 4x more likely to experience violent crimes including sexual assault than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts.
People with disabilities are over 2x more likely to experience violent crimes like sexual assault. Native American women are twice as likely to experience sexual assault compared to all other races.
More than 2 in 5 Black women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime
Slide 5: If you or someone you know was assaulted:
Get to a safe place and/or call a trusted person to help you.
WOAR 24-hour hotline: 215-985-3333
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Slide 6: REMEMBER
You are not alone. What happened is not your fault, and there are people who care about you and believe you
💙 Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a time to amplify voices and spread awareness about the reality of sexual violence. Every 68 seconds, someone is sexually assaulted in the U.S. Let’s join together to create safer communities and support survivors.
💜 If you or someone you know was assaulted, please seek help—whether it’s from a trusted person or a hotline. You are never alone.
📞 WOAR 24-hour Hotline: 215-985-3333
You are believed. You are valid. You matter.
#SAAM2025 #EndSexualViolence
Image description: Dark teal-blue background with text overlayed.
Slide 1: Every 68 seconds, a U.S. resident is sexually assaulted.
Slide 2: What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault happens when someone intentionally touches another person sexually without their consent, or coerces a person to engage in a sexual act without their consent.
Forms of sexual assault include: Rape or attempted rape
Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
Forcing someone to perform sexual acts
Slide 3: Who is sexually assaulted?
According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (2018):
1 in 6 women experienced sexual coercion and 1 in 5 women experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetime.
1 in 10 men experienced sexual coercion and 1 in 14 men were made to penetrate someone during their lifetime.
Slide 4: Increased risk for marginalized communities: LGBTQ+ people are nearly 4x more likely to experience violent crimes including sexual assault than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts.
People with disabilities are over 2x more likely to experience violent crimes like sexual assault. Native American women are twice as likely to experience sexual assault compared to all other races.
More than 2 in 5 Black women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime
Slide 5: If you or someone you know was assaulted:
Get to a safe place and/or call a trusted person to help you.
WOAR 24-hour hotline: 215-985-3333
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Slide 6: REMEMBER
You are not alone. What happened is not your fault, and there are people who care about you and believe you
On Thursday, WOAR was honored to witness city council officially recognize April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a powerful resolution. In case you missed, we caught it on tape for you! #saam2025 #endsexualviolence
On Thursday, WOAR was honored to witness city council officially recognize April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a powerful resolution. In case you missed, we caught it on tape for you! #saam2025 #endsexualviolence
Today, WOAR proudly partnered with City Council to honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a powerful proclamation. A huge thank you to Council Members At-Large @ruelandau and @Ninaforphilly for co-sponsoring this important initiative and for their steadfast commitment to creating a safer, more supportive community for all. Together, we’re taking a stand against sexual violence. 💙 #SAAM2025
Image Description:
City Council members stand alongside advocates of WOAR with the proclamation recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. All in the picture stand tall wearing shades of blue and teal and strong smiles on their face.
Today, WOAR proudly partnered with City Council to honor Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a powerful proclamation. A huge thank you to Council Members At-Large @ruelandau and @Ninaforphilly for co-sponsoring this important initiative and for their steadfast commitment to creating a safer, more supportive community for all. Together, we’re taking a stand against sexual violence. 💙 #SAAM2025
Image Description:
City Council members stand alongside advocates of WOAR with the proclamation recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. All in the picture stand tall wearing shades of blue and teal and strong smiles on their face.
Last night, Philly’s skyline was beautifully lit in teals and blues to honor Sexual Violence Awareness Month. WOAR, in partnership with BOMA, painted the town teal to spread awareness and offer support. Through April 3rd, you can look up and see WOAR’s signature color lighting up the night—reminding you that we’re always here for you. 💙 #SAAM2025
Image Description:
A view of the Philadelphia skyline taken from a bridge. The city’s tall buildings are lit up shades of teal, blue, and fluorescent yellow with a calm and vibrant glow. The lights of the skyscrapers reflect in the water below. The sky behind the buildings hues from a black to a blue.
Last night, Philly’s skyline was beautifully lit in teals and blues to honor Sexual Violence Awareness Month. WOAR, in partnership with BOMA, painted the town teal to spread awareness and offer support. Through April 3rd, you can look up and see WOAR’s signature color lighting up the night—reminding you that we’re always here for you. 💙 #SAAM2025
Image Description:
A view of the Philadelphia skyline taken from a bridge. The city’s tall buildings are lit up shades of teal, blue, and fluorescent yellow with a calm and vibrant glow. The lights of the skyscrapers reflect in the water below. The sky behind the buildings hues from a black to a blue.
Today, April 1st, marks the beginning of 2025 Sexual Assault Awareness Month. At WOAR, our mission is clear: to end sexual violence. As Philadelphia`s rape crisis center, we are committed to supporting survivors, advocating for justice, and educating the community to prevent further harm. Throughout this month, we`ll be attending events, hosting workshops, and offering resources to continue this important work. Keep an eye out for WOAR tables and activities! For more info, visit our website or check the links in our bio.
What does #SAAM2025 mean to you? Share your thoughts with us below—whether it’s about raising awareness, supporting survivors, getting involved in advocacy, or taking extra good care of yourself.
Remember, if you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual violence, our hotline is always available at 215-985-3333
Image description:
A white background with teal letters announcing the kickoff to Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In a smaller font it is noted that this month is a call for awareness of all forms of sexual violence in our city. We must see the problem in order to address it. We must end Sexual Violence. #SAAM2025
Today, April 1st, marks the beginning of 2025 Sexual Assault Awareness Month. At WOAR, our mission is clear: to end sexual violence. As Philadelphia`s rape crisis center, we are committed to supporting survivors, advocating for justice, and educating the community to prevent further harm. Throughout this month, we`ll be attending events, hosting workshops, and offering resources to continue this important work. Keep an eye out for WOAR tables and activities! For more info, visit our website or check the links in our bio.
What does #SAAM2025 mean to you? Share your thoughts with us below—whether it’s about raising awareness, supporting survivors, getting involved in advocacy, or taking extra good care of yourself.
Remember, if you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual violence, our hotline is always available at 215-985-3333
Image description:
A white background with teal letters announcing the kickoff to Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In a smaller font it is noted that this month is a call for awareness of all forms of sexual violence in our city. We must see the problem in order to address it. We must end Sexual Violence. #SAAM2025
💜 If a child seems withdrawn, anxious, or their behavior suddenly changes, they may be trying to tell you something. It’s not always easy to recognize the signs of sexual abuse, but your attention and support can make all the difference.
Listen with love. Believe them. Seek help.
WOAR’s 24/7 hotline is here for you and your family at 215.985.3333. No one has to face this alone. 🌟
💜 If a child seems withdrawn, anxious, or their behavior suddenly changes, they may be trying to tell you something. It’s not always easy to recognize the signs of sexual abuse, but your attention and support can make all the difference.
Listen with love. Believe them. Seek help.
WOAR’s 24/7 hotline is here for you and your family at 215.985.3333. No one has to face this alone. 🌟
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month! Come show your support for survivors by attending these community events. More details on specific events to come! #saam2025
Image description:
Save the date announcement regarding sexual assault awareness month. Events listed include April 1st- Teal Day, April 2nd- Holy Family University SAAM Kick Off, April 3rd- City Council Resolution Supporting SAAM and UPenn Campus Take Back the Night, April 8th- Candle Lighting hosted by Philadelphia Coalition for Victims Advocacy, April 11th- WOAR Survivor Self-Care Day (offered virtual), April 24th- Take Back the Night Philly, and April 30th- National Denim Day. Image also includes a purple and teal ribbon representing sexual assault awareness.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month! Come show your support for survivors by attending these community events. More details on specific events to come! #saam2025
Image description:
Save the date announcement regarding sexual assault awareness month. Events listed include April 1st- Teal Day, April 2nd- Holy Family University SAAM Kick Off, April 3rd- City Council Resolution Supporting SAAM and UPenn Campus Take Back the Night, April 8th- Candle Lighting hosted by Philadelphia Coalition for Victims Advocacy, April 11th- WOAR Survivor Self-Care Day (offered virtual), April 24th- Take Back the Night Philly, and April 30th- National Denim Day. Image also includes a purple and teal ribbon representing sexual assault awareness.
Your child`s safety begins with awareness.
WOAR’s Prevention Workshops help parents like you create open conversations about boundaries, respect, and safety. Equip yourself with knowledge to help you build a secure and respectful environment at home and beyond.
💡 Gain the tools you need—register today!
🔗 Learn more at woar.org/prevention-workshops
Your child`s safety begins with awareness.
WOAR’s Prevention Workshops help parents like you create open conversations about boundaries, respect, and safety. Equip yourself with knowledge to help you build a secure and respectful environment at home and beyond.
💡 Gain the tools you need—register today!
🔗 Learn more at woar.org/prevention-workshops
Abusers often isolate victims, making it harder to reach out for help. But you don’t have to face this alone. Abuse is never your fault. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial control. WOAR provides resources like support, legal advocacy, and counseling to help you rebuild your life. Asking for help is a courageous step toward freedom and healing. Call WOAR’s 24/7 hotline 215.985.3333.
If you feel unsafe or uncertain, trust your instincts and seek support. WOAR is here to help you. 💜
Abusers often isolate victims, making it harder to reach out for help. But you don’t have to face this alone. Abuse is never your fault. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial control. WOAR provides resources like support, legal advocacy, and counseling to help you rebuild your life. Asking for help is a courageous step toward freedom and healing. Call WOAR’s 24/7 hotline 215.985.3333.
If you feel unsafe or uncertain, trust your instincts and seek support. WOAR is here to help you. 💜