Lynchburg’s “Heart Project” Recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Alyssa Wilson ~ Editor-in-Chief 

Photo reading “I believe you.”. Photo taken from www.activeminds.org. 

The University of Lynchburg’s “HEART Project” is hosting events throughout the month of April, sexual assault awareness month, and is making a call of action to students to take a pledge against sexual assault. 

The “HEART (Holistic Empowerment through Advocacy and Response Training) Project” was started at the University after the Office of Student Development spearheaded a grant application process that awarded the University a three-year, $299,288 contract from the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women to reduce domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. 

The campus program teams up with community members and organizations to support those who are survivors of sexual assault. This teamwork happens year-round, but is especially prominent in the month of April. 

HEART is primarily working with the YWCA of Greater Lynchburg to host events both on and off-campus, but other organizations like Randolph College, Central Virginia Community College and Patrick Henry Family Services will also be taking part. 

The YWCA’s mission is to eradicate domestic violence against women and children, and is committed to helping individuals find a safe place after fleeing from domestic violence. 

Alpha Chi Omega, a sorority on Lynchburg’s campus, adopted domestic violence prevention as their philanthropy in 1992. Chesapeake West, a member of Alpha Chi Omega, is especially passionate about her organization’s philanthropy. 

“Our philanthropy is important to me because I have always loved helping people, and coming to Lynchburg I wanted to continue giving back to my community,” said West. 

The athletics department will also be partnering with Title XI in participating in a department wide pledge against sexual assault on April 5 in order to help spread awareness and set an example for other students. 

Volleyball player and junior, Princess Salifou said, “Partnering with Title XI on this month of Sexual Awareness Month is important to us because we can productively prevent situations from happening.” 

To learn more information about the “HEART Project” or Sexual Assault Awarness Month visit https://www.lynchburg.edu/about/heart-project/ and find a list of events here.