Sexual Assault Center’s Work in Healing and Prevention

In a recent conversation with Rachel Freeman, President and CEO of Nashville’s Sexual Assault Center (SAC), we gained insight into the vital services provided by this organization, its impact, and the ongoing need for community support. The SAC has been a lifeline for survivors of sexual violence and a proactive force for prevention and awareness across Tennessee. Here, we highlight key takeaways from this impactful discussion, underscoring why community involvement in this mission matters now more than ever.

Childhood Assault Remains Alarmingly Prevalent

One of the most staggering statistics shared by Rachel was about the prevalence of sexual assault among minors. One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually assaulted before they reach their 18th birthday. This means that, in every group of young people, a significant percentage may have experienced trauma that affects them for years to come. Recognizing the scale of this issue, the SAC has expanded its services to ensure support is accessible to young survivors and their families.

Higher Reporting Rates in Davidson County

Sexual assault is one of the most underreported crimes nationwide, with only about 30% of incidents being reported. However, in Davidson County, that rate is much higher, with approximately 70% of cases reported. The SAC attributes this increase in reporting to years of coordinated efforts among local law enforcement, medical professionals, and community outreach teams. When survivors see multiple organizations committed to supporting them, they are more likely to come forward.

Safe Bar Program Expands Prevention in Nashville

The SAC has also implemented a unique program called Safe Bar, which addresses the link between alcohol and assault in Nashville’s bustling nightlife. Over 50 establishments in Nashville are now Safe Bar-certified, meaning their staff have received training on bystander intervention and how to respond if a patron feels unsafe. Participating bars also use special coasters that double as drug-detection strips. The program has already proven effective, with trained staff members in some locations identifying and removing patrons exhibiting problematic behavior.

Increasing Accessibility to Medical Exams

Until recently, Nashville faced severe limitations in providing medical support for sexual assault survivors. Before 2018, only one hospital offered rape kits in the entire city, making it difficult for many survivors to receive timely care. In response, the SAC opened the SAFE Clinic in 2018, a facility dedicated to sexual assault forensic exams in a non-hospital setting.

Within the clinic’s first year, the number of annual exams doubled in Davidson County—from 160 to over 400 exams, split between the SAFE Clinic and local hospitals. The SAFE Clinic provides a safe, trauma-informed environment where survivors can seek help without the added stress of a hospital visit.

Financial Needs and Community Support

The SAC’s growth over recent years has been extraordinary. In 2024, the center’s budget exceeded $5 million for the first time, a significant achievement in their mission to expand services. This funding allows the center to maintain a team of 55 staff members who collectively provide over 7,000 therapy sessions each year and educate thousands more through outreach programs. However, funding challenges remain.

Rape exams, for instance, cost around $1,500 each, but only $1,000 per exam is reimbursed through the state. This gap represents just one of the many financial challenges the SAC faces in meeting Nashville’s needs. Fifty-four percent of the center’s funding comes from government grants, while 40% relies on private donations. Increased funding would allow the SAC to extend its reach, particularly through awareness and prevention initiatives that are vital to stopping assaults before they happen.

Legislation and Advocacy Efforts

The SAC is also active in legislative advocacy, helping to push through crucial reforms in the state of Tennessee. For example, a recent success was the passage of a rape kit backlog tracking system. This new system allows survivors to track the status of their rape kit, reducing the anxiety and waiting period that can often last up to 18 months. Additionally, the SAC recently advocated for changes in the civil statute of limitations, allowing survivors three to five years to file civil cases—an increase from the previous one-year limitation, which often expired before cases could be resolved.

Opportunities for Community Involvement

For those who feel called to support the SAC’s mission, there are multiple ways to get involved:

• Volunteer Advocacy: The SAC offers volunteer opportunities to accompany survivors during medical exams or to join the team at community outreach events.

• Safe Bar Program Expansion: If you know bar owners in Nashville or surrounding areas, encourage them to join the Safe Bar program and make their venues safer.

• Legislative Support: The SAC encourages community members to reach out to their state representatives to advocate for improved resources and legal protections for sexual assault survivors.

Mad Hatter Fundraiser

For anyone interested in contributing to the SAC’s mission, the annual Mad Hatter event offers a chance to support the center while enjoying a fun community gathering. This year’s event, chaired by one of Nashville’s leaders, will raise vital funds for SAC programs, making a lasting difference for survivors and their families.

For more details, visit SAC’s website or the Mad Hatter event page.

Closing Thoughts

The Sexual Assault Center’s work is a vital part of Nashville’s community safety net, providing survivors with the resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. As Rachel Freeman shared, “If we aren’t out there trying to raise this conversation... then we’re just responding to people after one of the most devastating things has happened to them.” By supporting the SAC, we not only help those affected but also work toward a future where these services are no longer needed.

Together, we can make a difference, ensure support is available when needed, and take a collective stand against sexual violence.