Brad Cunningham, a survivor of sexual violence, was the keynote speaker at a forum in Red Deer on May 31. (rdnewsNOW/Josh Hall)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF CRIME WEEK

Collaboration key in helping crime victims, survivors

May 31, 2019 | 4:23 PM

Organizers behind Red Deer’s first ‘Power of Collaboration’ forum for Victims and Survivors of Crime Week hope a bridge was gapped for some attendees who may be unsure how to start getting help.

The forum took place Friday at the Baymont and featured panelists from RCMP, Victim Services, the John Howard Society and elsewhere.

Sadia Khan, Community Support spokesperson with the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre, says it’s imperative that the community knows local agencies are working together.

“We are not working in silos. We work with Victim Services and the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC), and it’s really important for survivors to see that collaboration,” Khan says.

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“We talk to each other so clients feel comfortable in knowing all of the organizations are out there to support them.”

Alyssa Truant, Community Awareness Coordinator with the CACAC, says working together actually gives a voice to survivors.

“I met a few those that came to the forum so they could see the services and feel like they are part of a community,” says Truant. “Coming together as organizations and as a community is what is going to help heal these victims and push them to become survivors.”

One such person is Brad Cunningham, who became a survivor of sexual violence at a young age and served as a panelist and keynote speaker at the event.

Cunningham, who grew up in High Prairie and came forward in 2009 with four others to out their single offender, says victims and survivors must realize there are resources available.

“For people that have been victims of sexual violence, there are supports and services out there, there are people out there who will believe you and listen; that’s number one,” he says. “Knowing there are people out there who will understand and be there for you in your time of need.”

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is an annual initiative of Justice Canada. It runs through June 1.