There are several options in seeking care for an individual impacted by sexual violence, which includes sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. WSU provides access to both confidential and nonconfidential resources, as well as reporting for criminal or university investigation. Victims/survivors are encouraged to access whichever resource they feel most comfortable with. Victims/survivors can also seek support and referral information directly from WSU’s Compliance and Civil Rights (CCR) or a local law enforcement agency.
A current listing of resources for victims/survivors is maintained and posted by CCR. Victims/survivors can choose to seek medical care, even if they are unsure whether they want to make a police report or if they choose not to move forward with a criminal investigation. Victims/survivors can also seek support and referral information directly from the Office of Compliance and Civil Rights, or a local law enforcement agency.
A healthcare provider can help assess well-being and personal safety, provide any necessary medical treatment, and refer students to counseling and other resources. Trained healthcare providers can also collect forensic evidence.
Healthcare providers at local hospitals offer Sexual Assault Forensic Exams to collect physical evidence for use in a law enforcement investigation and possible prosecution. Victims/survivors do not have to speak to the police in order to receive a forensic exam. Healthcare providers will explain the exam process before beginning and can answer any questions about what will happen during the exam. It is important to preserve any evidence that may be necessary to prove a criminal offense. Preservation includes refraining from showering or bathing and saving articles of clothing worn during the assault. Victims/survivors have the option to be accompanied by a support person, such as a friend or an advocate, during medical appointments and/or exams.
Within the local community, victim advocacy agencies provide support to victims/survivors, as well as support for friends and family of victims/survivors. Their services are free and confidential. They can be reached at the below telephone lines:
YWCA of Clark County: 1 (800) 696-0167 (24hr) or (360) 696-0167 (office)
Cowlitz Indian Tribe Pathways to Healing: (360) 397-8228
Reports of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking may be made anonymously to the WSU Vancouver Police Department or another local police department where an individual is located. For anonymous reporting, please see section Voluntary, Confidential Reporting. Additionally, individuals may report or file a formal complaint or dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking to WSU Compliance and Civil Rights (CCR) by emailing ccr@wsu.edu, by calling 509-335-8288, or through CCR’s Online Reporting webpage.