As the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network has helped over four million people in its 29-year history. While every day is spent creating awareness, improving legislation, and supporting victims and their loved ones, RAINN Day holds a particularly special place in the organization and the communities it’s created across the United States. RAINN Day 2023, which took place on April 18, was a dedicated time for college students to come together and demonstrate their support in the fight against sexual violence.
Those looking to participate in RAINN Day could do so in several different ways, both in person and online. Held during Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, the occasion is also an opportunity for supporters to show their love for survivors from all walks of life. Many student organizations put together events, walks, and webinars for their members to provide resources and increase awareness around sexual abuse and victims’ resources. Instead of victims hiding in the shadows or grappling with feelings of shame and guilt on their own, RAINN Day can also be a day of peace and freedom for victims to come forward to get help and share their stories to help others.
RAINN victim services programs help over 800 people on a daily basis, providing much-needed support for survivors and their families. “We are thrilled that RAINN’s services have become so well known and so trusted,” said RAINN President Scott Berkowitz. “At the same time, it’s tragic that so many people continue to be victimized by sexual violence and that demand for our services continues to grow.” Activities like RAINN Day serve to increase awareness of RAINN’s service offerings on a national scale, making it easier for victims to learn about available services and reach out for help when they need it most.
Web-Based RAINN Day Content
RAINN created a variety of web-based content for the day, leveraging a few hashtags to bring everyone together, including #HEALTogether and #WhatIWish. Specifically, the #WhatIWish hashtag was dedicated to conversations around the dangers of child sexual abuse material online. Tagging @RAINN on posts helped the nonprofit learn of the user-generated content and allowed the platform to syndicate stories to broader audiences. Additional graphics and templates were provided by RAINN for public use across a variety of social media platforms. Sample posts designed to inspire others to share their stories were provided, as were Spanish language resources, including awareness campaigns and outreach tool kits for RAINN’s dedicated Spanish-language hotline.
Communities could also get together for RAINN Day beyond social media and online activities. RAINN offers a variety of fundraising and donation options through its website, with contributions going directly to support RAINN’s services to victims and its public education work. Customizable digital fundraising campaigns allow users to invite friends and family to make tax-deductible contributions with ease. Whether donating traditionally or through more novel means such as cryptocurrency and stocks, contributors can make an impact on the lives of survivors. RAINN also accepts volunteers, works with Greek life partners, partners with corporations for workplace giving, and offers a speaker’s bureau to provide additional ways for those interested in getting involved.
RAINN Day activities are encouraged across any and all student communities. Publicity materials and speakers were made available to help local groups spread the word and gather. Whether in person or held virtually, RAINN Day programming is another way that RAINN is supporting communities through education and awareness while reminding survivors that they aren’t alone. Brave individuals looking to share their stories can receive assistance through the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673), which is free, confidential, and available 24/7. “We recognize and thank the millions of survivors who are so brave and courageous in reaching out to RAINN,” said Amy Andrades, director of the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
Scott Berkowitz’s RAINN continues to grow to meet the demand for RAINN Day and beyond, noting that media and special events can often trigger increases in call or outreach volume as victims find the courage to come forward. To this end, RAINN increased its program offerings in late 2022: “We launched a plan to double the capacity of our online hotline services,” said Scott Berkowitz. “Until we’ve met our ultimate goal of ending sexual violence, RAINN’s free, confidential hotlines will be here 24/7, staffed by an incredible group of trained professionals and volunteers.”
