What is one of the key responsibilities of a Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)?

A Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) has a vital role in overseeing and managing local Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) programs and policies. This responsibility ensures that there is a structured approach to addressing sexual assault within a community, including facilitating appropriate support services for victims and promoting prevention initiatives. The SARC coordinates resources, creates awareness about available services, and ensures that the policies in place are followed effectively.

Managing local SAPR programs allows the SARC to implement training, outreach, and support initiatives that are tailored to the community’s needs. This helps in fostering an environment that encourages reporting and provides comprehensive support to survivors of sexual assault. The essential nature of this role lies in its focus on organizing and advancing the overarching program rather than taking on specialized tasks like investigating cases, providing legal assistance, or training law enforcement directly, which are not primary responsibilities of the SARC.