Thursday, March 31, 2016
National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM) is an observance held each April to raise awareness and educate communities on the prevention of sexual assault. During SAAPM the U.S. Army reaffirms its commitment to eliminate sexual assault within the Army, support victims, and inspire bystander intervention. The Army’s 2016 SAAPM theme is Sexual Assault. Sexual Harassment. Not in Our Army.
The Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) program is a key contributor to readiness as it enables Army leaders and personnel at all levels to prevent sexual offenses from occurring by promoting a climate in which the dignity of every Soldier, civilian, and Family member is respected.
The Army created the best prevention and response system available, so those working with victims are trusted, well-trained and effective. The Army is implementing the following training initiatives:
(1) SHARP Academy: This is the only institution of its kind in the Department of Defense. This academy was established by the Army to improve training, competence, professionalism and the abilities of all Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) and Victim Advocates (VAs).
(2) Emergent Leader lmmersive Training Environment SHARP Command Team Trainer (ELITE CTT): This is a virtual, interactive training platform established to facilitate a more meaningful initial meeting between commanders and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs).
(3) ELITE SHARP Prevention and Outreach Simulation Trainer (POST): This is a new computer-based training application, which is being developed by the Army. This initiative supports the training of Army Sexual Assault Response Coordinators and Victim Advocates on the processes and procedures for successful implementation of the Prevention and Outreach missions. The application is expected to be completed in October 2016.
The Army is implementing initiatives such as enhanced, interactive training; increased outreach/engagement; new research into male victimization; the role of alcohol in sexual assaults; and deployment of new awareness materials.
The Army is committed to taking care of the Soldiers and DA Civilians by working together to end sexual offenses in the Army, facilitating a more ready, capable force.
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