Fort Leonard Wood's new SHARP Resource Center provides support, services

By Ms. Dawn M Arden (Leonard Wood)December 11, 2014

Fort Leonard Wood's new SHARP Resource Center provides support, services
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

The Maneuver Support Center of Excellence is scheduled to officially open its new Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Resource Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. Dec. 19 in Building 315.

"(Our) SHARP-RC is a 'one-stop shop' designed to coordinate and support all SHARP program services and personnel working on the installation, with a focus on maximum colocation of advocacy, investigative and legal personnel," said Sgt. Maj. Kimberly McGhaney-Reed, SHARP program manager.

McGhaney-Reed said victims, witnesses and Family members can now explore reporting options, meet response personnel and coordinate needed referrals and appointments in a protected environment.

Lt. Col. Katrisa Norwood, Ready and Resilient coordinator, said people needing the services of the resource center can expect to find a professional group of subject matter experts providing multiple services.

"This is a safe and secure location for all personnel to visit in order to receive literature, understand reporting options and receive sensitive advocacy support services," Norwood said.

"The Resource Center will assist with minimizing the victims time in traveling to multiple locations in order to receive the proper support they need," she added.

Norwood said the center will also help to provide training to brigade-level Sexual Assault Response Coordinators and Victim Advocates, to improve the overall support given to victims.

According to Sgt. 1st Class Niyonde Tilman, installation victim advocate, once a victim has chosen a reporting option, either restricted or unrestricted, they can sit down with Criminal Investigation Division, legal assistance or Family Advocacy (at their discretion.)

The center, located on the second floor of Building 315, consists of SHARP administrative offices, waiting area, secure interview room and conference room.

Individuals in need of assistance can visit the center between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., or call the 24/7 SHARP Helpline at 573.855.1327.

Related Links:

Fort Leonard Wood GUIDON Newspaper

Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood