BELLEFONTE –The Centre County Commissioners proclaimed April as Sexual Assualt Awareness Month in Centre County during their weekly meeting, stating they aim to raise awareness of issues affecting vulnerable community members and survivors.

Jennifer Pencek, executive director of Centre Safe, joined the commissioners regular weekly meeting to discuss the community’s role in supporting survivors, spreading education and preventing sexual violence.

Pencek noted that, on average, Centre Safe serves 900 domestic violence survivors, 200 sexual assault survivors and 200 individuals or families in need of shelter assistance each year. In addition to their in-person services, Centre Safe monitors the local crisis line, which allows them to serve an additional 1,200 to 1,500 people annually.

Throughout the month, Centre Safe will conduct awareness and educational efforts across Centre County under the theme “Looking Back, Moving Forward: Turning Awareness into Action.”

Centre Safe is also marking its 50th anniversary, recognizing five decades of service to people affected by sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking in Centre County.

“As we honor the work of Centre Safe, we also want to honor the lived experiences of thousands of victims and survivors who have had to navigate trauma and healing,” said Pencek. “We must remember that sexual assault, at its core, is a devastating abuse of power — one that affects people of every identity. It is on all of us to stand up and speak out against it, not only to improve the laws and services available to victims and survivors, but also to change the culture and attitudes that allow sexual assault to remain so pervasive.”

According to Centre Safe, the theme highlights efforts across Pennsylvania to address sexual abuse, assault and harassment, while recognizing survivors, advocates and support organizations. The organization said the campaign encourages residents to take action by supporting survivors, promoting safety and working toward long-term change.

Upcoming Sexual Assault Awareness Month events include:

— “What Were You Wearing?” Survivor Art Installation: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 10 at the HUB-Robeson Lounge, University Park. The exhibit, presented by the R-VOICE Center and Centre Safe, aims to challenge misconceptions about sexual violence, according to the organizations.

— Honoring Survival: 3 to 5 p.m. April 22 at Pasquerilla Spiritual Center, University Park. The event will be an evening of healing to honor the strength and resiliency of survivors.

— Denim Day: All day, April 29. Community members are encouraged to wear denim to show support for survivors and raise awareness. Visit denimday.org and share your denim-themed wear by tagging @centresafe on social media.

Centre Safe provides free and confidential services for anyone in Centre County, including counseling, advocacy, legal support, outreach and education, shelter, transitional housing and safe custody exchanges/supervised visitations via its Child Access Center. Centre Safe’s 24/7 hotline is toll-free at 877-234-5050. Learn more at www.centresafe.org.