Aly Austin, Sexual Assault Community Advocate with Families First
Aly Austin, Sexual Assault Community Advocate with Families First
What do you do to combat sexual assault?
My role as an advocate is to provide confidential support and education to individuals that have experienced sexual assault. I help survivors navigate the criminal justice system by providing court support and assistance with protective orders. As an advocate, I can meet individuals where they are in their recovery process and provide them with information on community resources and assist them with safety planning. I can meet them in our office or in the community at a safe location. We are currently in the process of starting up a sexual assault support group which will be peer-led.
What motivates you in this role?
Fighting sexual assault is one of my biggest passions. I’ve known a lot of people that have experienced sexual assault, and I’ve also seen the difference between a survivor having ongoing support versus a survivor that does not have support. It’s important that survivors have somebody that listens and believes them, as well as someone to give them guidance when they feel lost. I am very happy I found a job that allows me to do that.
What is your favorite hobby?
I enjoy traveling, going to rallies and hanging out with my cat.
What’s your favorite quote or mantra?
“Whatever you choose, however many roads you travel, I hope that you choose not to be a lady. I hope you will find some way to break the rules and make a little trouble out there. And I also hope that you will choose to make some of that trouble on behalf of women.” Nora Ephron
How long have you been a SA advocate?
I have been in my position with Families First for about two and a half months.
How has being a SA advocate helped you in your career?
Everything I have been doing with Families First as a sexual assault advocate has helped me grow as a professional and as an individual. I love being able to learn about different issues relating to sexual assault & domestic violence through training’s and learning from other advocates. I’m very fortunate to have found a job that allows me to gain experience that is directly related to what I’ve always wanted to do – since I’ve only been out of college for one year J working with FF has also been helping me decide what path I want to take as I pursue higher education.