Local rape crisis center partners with base Published Jan. 27, 2008 By Amy Abbott 452 AMW MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. -- March ARB completed a memorandum of understanding with the Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center earlier this week. The MOU, signed by the 452nd Air Mobility Wing Commander, Brig. General James Melin, is an official agreement outlining the direct relationship between the base and the center. March has always been part of the service area the center has provided for, just without the formality. The MOU was initiated by the base's Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, Debby Ross, in an effort to encourage sexual assault victims to begin breaking the silence. The center gives victims another place to reach out to. "Part of breaking the silence is partnering with the Rape Crisis Center, Alternatives to Domestic Violence, with the commander, with the first sergeant, with a trusted friend - you break that silence and then you start working on it, because it's very hard to work on it by yourself," she said. The center provides a 24 hour crisis hotline that people can call and get information, referrals and counseling. They also have an advocacy program Local rape crisis center partners with base that explains and goes with victims through the entire process, including forensic exams. "Most often a victim of this type of crime has no knowledge about their rights," said Debora Monroe-Heaps, Director of Programs for the Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center. "We are the members of a sexual assault response team. All of our responsibilities are completely different, but we work as a team to provide the best care possible." They offer psychological support, in person counseling, active support groups, rape prevention education, women and children's self defense classes, parenting classes and child abuse prevention classes. In April, during National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the center will provide several of their classes on base throughout the month. Separate classes will be taught either in Spanish or in English. More information will become available at a later date. Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center (951) 686-7273 Toll Free: (866) 686-7273