CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — As April shines a spotlight on Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), local nonprofit R.A.C.E.S (Rape Advocacy, Counseling, and Education Services) is celebrating 25 years of supporting survivors and educating the Champaign-Urbana community. From therapy and advocacy to prevention education and community events, R.A.C.E.S has become a critical resource for individuals and families affected by sexual violence across Champaign, Douglas, and Piatt counties.

“Sexual violence impacts everyone in our community, whether directly or indirectly,” said Jaya Kolisetty, Prevention Education Coordinator at R.A.C.E.S. “SAAM is the time to raise awareness, start important conversations, and remind our community that prevention and support are possible. For 25 years, RACES has been dedicated to helping survivors heal and teaching skills that prevent harm before it occurs.”

Kolisetty leads a team of prevention educators who work in schools, community organizations, and local groups. “Prevention is not just about teaching kids to stay safe,” she explained. “It’s about giving them the tools to understand boundaries, respect, and consent. Our programs are age-appropriate—from kindergarteners learning to ask before touching, to high school students navigating relationships and understanding healthy communication.”

To hear the entire interview, click here: Stream episode FOCUS – R.A.C.E.S IN COMMUNITY EVENT 2026 by Illini Media Group podcast | Listen online for free on SoundCloud

R.A.C.E.S offers a comprehensive array of free, confidential services. These include legal advocacy, medical support for survivors undergoing forensic exams, and therapy sessions using evidence-based methods. Kolisetty emphasized that support extends to non-offending family members, acknowledging the ripple effects of sexual violence.

“Our advocacy approach is always centered on the survivor,” Kolisetty said. “We start by asking, ‘What do you need?’ Some people need help navigating the legal or medical system. Others just need a compassionate listener. Our goal is to meet them where they are and provide support tailored to their needs.”

SAAM events bring the community together

In addition to their ongoing programs, R.A.C.E.S hosts a series of community events during April to mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Events this year include Take Back the Narrative, an art exhibit and resource fair at the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center, and Healing Through the Senses, a therapy-focused workshop incorporating mindfulness, grounding exercises, and aromatherapy. The month concludes with Denim Day, encouraging community members to wear jeans in solidarity with survivors.

“These events are more than educational—they provide a space for our community to come together,” Kolisetty said. “You don’t have to be a survivor to participate. Showing support, attending workshops, and starting conversations are all ways to contribute to prevention.”

Reaching the community through schools

Kolisetty described the reach of R.A.C.E.S’ prevention programs in schools. “We work with students from kindergarten through high school, often returning year after year to build rapport. For our youngest students, lessons start simple—asking before touching, seeking guidance from trusted adults. As students progress, we scaffold lessons on consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention. Over multiple sessions, we see students internalize these lessons, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”

Teachers have shared positive feedback: “Kindergarteners are now asking before hugging or touching someone. These are small but meaningful changes that demonstrate understanding and respect,” Kolisetty said.

Small actions, big impact

Kolisetty also highlighted the importance of small, actionable steps for community members. “Even knowing your local resources, like our 24/7 crisis line at 217-384-4444, can make a huge difference. One of the first things we encourage people to do is believe survivors. A simple ‘I believe you’ or ‘Thank you for trusting me’ can be life-changing.”

She emphasized that prevention and support are community responsibilities. “Sexual violence is not just an individual problem—it’s a societal issue. Everyone has a role to play, whether that’s starting conversations with children about consent, reinforcing boundaries in schools, or volunteering with organizations like RACES.”

Volunteer opportunities and community engagement

For those wanting to get involved, R.A.C.E.S offers volunteer programs that include 40 hours of crisis intervention training. Volunteers help operate hotlines, assist in educational programs, and support community outreach. “Volunteering is a way to actively contribute to prevention and support survivors, even if you don’t work in the field,” Kolisetty said.

Looking back on 25 years of service, Kolisetty reflected, “We all deserve communities where respect, boundaries, accountability, and safety are the norm. By investing in prevention, advocacy, and education, we’re not just reacting to harm—we’re building healthier communities and creating safer futures for everyone.”

For more information, upcoming events, or to access resources, visit cu-races.org.