PRESS ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WHAT:
On Thursday, September 4, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center will host a significant advocacy meeting in Ashtabula County, convened by the Ashtabula County Victims of Crime Office, which is a branch of the Ashtabula County Prosecutor’s Office. This gathering brings together survivor-serving agencies including CRCC, Home Safe, and the Child Advocacy Center of Ashtabula, marking a renewed commitment to coordinated, trauma-informed care for survivors across the region.
WHEN:
Thursday, September 4, 2025
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
WHERE:
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center – Ashtabula Office
5021 State Road
Ashtabula, OH 44004
WHY:
This meeting represents a powerful step forward in Ashtabula County, where collaborative systems for supporting survivors have been lacking. Prosecutor April Grabman is taking bold, meaningful action to convene those doing the work and ensure survivors are met with dignity, justice, and care.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY:
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About Cleveland Rape Crisis Center
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s mission is to support survivors of rape and sexual abuse, promote healing and prevention, and advocate for social change. Our vision is the elimination of sexual violence. Each year, CRCC provides direct support and services to more than 10,000 survivors in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake and Ashtabula counties and reaches tens of thousands more community members with prevention and education programs. Our 24/7 crisis and support hotline is available to call or text at: (216) 619-6192, or visit clevelandrapecrisis.org to learn more.
Media Contact: Kim Farkas | kimf@clevelandrcc.org
The Ashtabula County and Lake County Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) are proud to announce our 2025 SART Conferences. Join us September 12 at Kent State Ashtabula and September 19 at Lakeland Community College to hear expert presentations on topics relevant for law enforcement, medical professionals, social workers, educators, and more.
Friday, September 12
Kent State Ashtabula
Friday, September 19
Lakeland Community College
To learn about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ave Warren Lowe, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s Regional SART Coordinator at (440) 665-1829 or avew@clevelandrcc.org.
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center Issues Statement in Response to the Sean “P. Diddy” Combs Verdict
At Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, our first commitment is to survivors of human trafficking and sexual violence. We believe survivors. We affirm that legal outcomes, while critical, do not invalidate survivors’ lived experiences.
This case illustrates deep systemic challenges survivors face—particularly when allegations involve fame, wealth, or power dynamics. Survivors may feel invisible when charges are downgraded or dismissed in court; that invisibility must end.
We are steadfast in our mission to support survivors regardless of legal outcomes. We offer trauma-informed care, advocacy, medical accompaniment, and crisis support every day. No verdict changes our work—and no judgment verdict negates what survivors endure or endure alone.
To survivors across Ohio and nationwide: you are seen. You are heard. You are believed. And you do not have to navigate this alone. Our services are confidential and survivor-led.
We’re here to listen on our 24/7 Hotline. Text or call (216) 619-6192 or (440) 423-2020 or chat online.
On behalf of the Ashtabula County and Lake County Sexual Assault Response Teams (SART), we invite you to submit a proposal to present at one of the following:
Sexual violence affects people from all backgrounds and walks of life—it doesn’t discriminate. But the impact of trauma, access to services, and prevention education can vary across communities. Join us to discuss how we can confront barriers, support survivors, and reduce risk in our communities.
Examples of desired topics:
Target audiences: Medical professionals, law enforcement, prosecution, K-12 schools, college campuses, and other survivor-serving organizations.
Deadline for submission: Monday, July 28.
Thank you to all who submitted proposals to present! All proposals will receive a response soon. Please email Ave Warren Lowe, Regional SART Coordinator at avew@clevelandrcc.org with any questions.
RSVP to attend the Lake and Ashtabula SART Conferences. Registration is free.
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center invites survivors of rape and sexual abuse to free community yoga classes led by Dana Perry Kirchoff, E-RYT. This practice will allow students an opportunity to increase body awareness in support of greater physical, emotional and mental well being.
Location:
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center
Clark-Fulton Office
2937 West 25th Street, 3rd Floor
Cleveland, OH 44113
Who can attend:
Survivors of rape, sexual abuse, or human trafficking ages 18+. Survivors ages 13-17 may attend with a participating parent/guardian. Registration is required.
To RSVP and for additional details, please visit the following pages on Eventbrite:
Please register for each class you plan to attend.
Space is limited. If you cannot make a class you signed up for, please contact update your RSVP on Eventbrite to allow another participant to take your spot. Thank you!
Are beginners welcome?
Yes! This is a beginner-friendly class, and all levels of yoga experience are welcome.
Can my teen attend this class?
Survivors aged 13-17 are welcome to attend WITH a parent/guardian. Please complete two registrations, one for the minor and one for the adult.
Do I need to bring anything?
Yoga mats and bolsters are provided for students to use during the class. You are welcome to bring your own, if you prefer. We recommend bringing a water bottle and wearing comfortable clothes that you can move around in.
Is this a CRCC support group?
No, this is not a clinical support group. If you are interested in a group, please visit our Support Groups page. For additional support or to learn about CRCC services, text or call (216) 619-6192 or (440) 423-2020.
Since this class is for survivors, will I have to talk about my story?
No. This is simply a yoga class designed for survivors. There will not be discussion time, and you will not be expected to talk about your experience.
About the Instructor:
Dana Perry Kirchoff, E-RYT has been practicing and teaching yoga for 20 years. She has trained in a variety of modalities and has learned from many amazing teachers over the years. Her most recent work has been focused on teaching yoga + mindfulness to kids ages K-8, as well as providing Trauma Informed Yoga classes for the community.
We are excited to introduce the newest members of the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center Board of Directors. As we continue our vital work to support survivors of sexual violence and advocate for systemic change, we are thrilled to welcome these outstanding individuals who bring a wealth of expertise, passion, and commitment to our mission.
Carmen Belock is a dedicated RN Care Manager with Summa Health System, providing compassionate support and care to patients in our community. Her deep knowledge of the healthcare system and clinical expertise will offer invaluable insight as CRCC continues to ensure the best possible care for those impacted by sexual violence.
Latasha Brown works with Aetna, focusing on public health and working with survivors of human trafficking, making her an essential addition to our board. Her advocacy for those affected by human trafficking and her commitment to health equity will be an asset as we work to create safer, more supportive communities for all survivors.
Mary LaVigne-Butler is a retired professional with a tremendous track record in fundraising. With years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Mary’s skills in resource development and her passion for community-driven impact will help CRCC strengthen its financial sustainability, expand our outreach efforts, and continue to provide critical services to survivors of sexual violence.
Samantha Claggett is a dedicated hospital SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) nurse with a passion for supporting survivors of sexual assault. Her experience in providing critical care and her understanding of trauma-informed approaches will enhance CRCC’s mission to create a comprehensive, survivor-centered support system.
Peter Morrison is an attorney with Squire Patton Boggs, where he brings vast experience in legal services and corporate law. His expertise in legal matters will play a crucial role as CRCC continues to advocate for justice and legal reform to support survivors. We are excited to have his leadership and insight to guide our efforts in fostering a fairer, more just system for all.
Tenneille Power
is both a minister and a therapist, offering a unique perspective on spiritual and emotional healing. Her deep understanding of mental health, combined with her work in ministry, will help guide CRCC in providing holistic care to survivors. Tenneille’s insights into the intersection of faith and healing will be invaluable as we continue to support survivors in their journey to recovery.
Rick Rucker is a Founder & CEO in the equity mortgage investment group industry. His background in finance and investments will be instrumental as CRCC works to ensure long-term financial health and sustainability. Rick’s expertise will help CRCC continue to thrive as we expand our programs and services to reach even more survivors.
Brittany Wilhelm is an associate at Jones Day Cleveland, Ohio, specializing in Securities Litigation, SEC Enforcement & Investigations. With her strong background in law, particularly in high-stakes litigation, Brittany will provide invaluable expertise in navigating the legal landscape for CRCC. Her skills will help strengthen our advocacy for policy change and legal reform to better support survivors and hold offenders accountable.
We are incredibly grateful to welcome Carmen, Latasha, Mary, Samantha, Peter, Tenneille, Rick, and Brittany to the CRCC community. Together, they bring diverse and invaluable expertise that will strengthen our work, expand our reach, and help us continue our critical mission to support survivors of sexual violence.
See the full list of Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s Board of Directors.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s theme for SAAM 2025 is Awareness Ignites Action.
1. Wear Teal on April 1 and post a photo on social media. (Tag @clevelandrcc!)
2. Take our brief, confidential survey to help improve services for survivors in Northeast Ohio.
3. Attend an event:
Lekko Coffee: $1 from every SAAM drink special donated to CRCC, plus an option to donate at checkout. (Cleveland)
Dahlia Coffee: A SAAM Drink of the Month plus an option to donate at checkout. (Cleveland)
T-Shirt Fundraiser: Use code ‘SAAM’ for 10% off black “My Body Belongs To Me” throwback t-shirts. (Please note: 10% discount applies ONLY to the black t-shirts. Light blue, grey, and yellow shirts do not qualify for the discount.)
Need to talk? We’re here to listen. Text or call (216) 619-6192 or (440) 423-2020 or chat on our website.
Take action today to help Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) provide life-changing support to survivors in Cuyahoga, Ashtabula, Geauga, and Lake counties. Check out these ideas for how your business or group can get involved in Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Take Action
Email jackiek@clevelandrcc.org or visit the links above for more information.
Thank you for supporting survivors! Click here to learn more about Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2025.
