Free, confidential services for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault in southwest Wisconsin.

Passages is a private, non-profit organization with the mission of supporting those individuals affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.

We provide free, confidential services to any victim of crime, especially domestic violence or sexual assault, recent or past.

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Passages provides advocacy services to any person in the community regardless of age, gender, race, color, religion, culture, national origin, sexual orientation, economic status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability.

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Services include crisis intervention, emergency shelter, advocacy-based counseling, court, medical and social services advocacy, support groups, children’s advocacy and community education and prevention.

April, recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, is a month to bring awareness, education, support, and solidarity to the survivors of sexual violence. Every 73 seconds an individual is sexually assaulted. Sexual assault affects individuals of every gender, economic status, social status, age, religion, culture,
nationality, education level, and racial background. The United States Department of Justice defines sexual assault as “any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient.” This includes acts such as fondling, rape, coercion, or attempted rape that the individual did not give permission or actively/voluntarily consent to. Sexual assault is NEVER the victim’s fault, and no matter the circumstances any sexual act that you do not give permission to occur is sexual assault.

In 2020, there were 291 sexual assaults clients served by Passages:

 88 in Richland County
 65 in Crawford County
 24 in Vernon County
 114 in other counties

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This month, in an effort to continue to promote awareness and advocacy, there will be a “A Day for Passages” radiothon on WRCO 100.9FM on April 28th from 9am-12pm and “Denim Day,” two events to stand in partnership and solidarity with survivors. Passages is also kicking off a safety pin campaign. Follow our Facebook page for more information on these and other events.