UNIVERSITY PARKS, Pa. — The Relationship Violence Outreach, Intervention, and Community Education (R-VOICE) Center is celebrating four decades of service to Penn State students and the broader community. The center will be hosting events throughout the month of October in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) and in celebration of its 40th Anniversary, This year’s theme, “With Survivors, Always,” encapsulates the center’s ongoing commitment to supporting survivors and raising awareness about interpersonal violence.
From the Center for Women Students in 1985 to the Gender Equity Center in 2017 — and now the R-VOICE Center — the office has remained dedicated to supporting survivors, promoting consent, building healthy relationships, and fostering a campus culture where every student can thrive.
Since the center's inception, R-VOICE supports students who have been impacted by sexual and relationship violence, stalking, harassment, and other campus climate issues. In addition, R-VOICE works to educate the University Park community about gender equity issues and provides workshops and resources for the prevention of sexual violence.
The center believes everyone deserves healthy relationships that are built on respect and consent, positive experiences, and learn life skills that enable them to be successful and achieve their goals at Penn State.
“Our office will always stand with survivors. Where there is uncertainty, the R-VOICE Center provides stability by offering a safe place for all. We are here to listen, to believe, and to walk alongside survivors as they navigate their own paths toward healing,” said Sophia Mills, program coordinator for outreach and prevention at the R-VOICE Center.
Survivor Support Fund
As part of its 40th anniversary, the R-VOICE Center is launching a Survivor Support Fund for students. This fund is a student-centered initiative designed to provide immediate financial relief to individuals navigating the aftermath of sexual misconduct. It will cover urgent expenses such as replacing bedding or clothing, transportation to medical or court appointments, protection order costs, medications not covered by insurance, and other critical needs. Every dollar raised will go directly to helping students reclaim safety, stability and agency in the wake of trauma.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month events
Brunch Celebration
Oct. 12, 10 a.m., the Graduate Hotel in State College
The anniversary will be marked with a brunch celebration on Oct. 12, at 10 a.m. at the Graduate Hotel in State College. The event will feature guest speakers, student performers, brunch, and an opportunity to reflect on the center’s history, stories, and future. Students, staff, faculty, alumni and community partners are invited to attend. To register a seat, fill out the RSVP form.
Open House
Oct. 30, 3-5 p.m., 222U Boucke Building
For those unable to attend the brunch, the R-VOICE Center will host an Open House on Oct. 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. at 222U Boucke Building. Visitors can meet staff, explore the center, and learn more about the work the unit performs for our Penn State students and community.
Clothesline Project T-Shirt Making Sessions
Oct. 2, 1–3 p.m., HUB LL011 and Oct. 2, 5–7 p.m., Flex Theater
The Clothesline Project is a national campaign that lifts the voices and experiences of survivors of interpersonal violence through a powerful public shirt display. Before the display goes up, the Penn State community is invited to join the cause in creating shirts during t-shirt making sessions. All are welcome to participate in standing in support or expressing their own experience.
Restoring Balance: Yoga for Survivors with Kerri Zelman
Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, 4–5:30 p.m., IM Building. Apply now.
A four-week yoga series for students who have experienced trauma. Participation is free but requires an application and intake meeting. Space is limited to 15 students.
Purple Thursday
Oct. 23, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., HUB
Observed nationwide, Purple Thursday is a day to raise awareness about domestic violence and show support for survivors. Members of the Penn State community are encouraged to wear purple throughout the day as a visible sign of solidarity.
Sounds like Treble: Karaoke Night
Oct. 30, 6-8 p.m., Lion’s Lair Lounge, HUB
A night of karaoke will feature popular songs from today while also creating space to reflect on how music can influence expectations and encourage healthier perspectives on relationships.
More information
For more information and to learn how to support the R-VOICE Center, visit Domestic Violence Awareness Month programming or on Instagram: @rvoice_pennstate.