AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- Augusta University calling attention to sexual violence.  The annual event is aimed at helping students know they are in a safe space.

“So here tonight is our community partners your representing universities, your representing advocacy, counseling, women’s centers I this area you’re advocating for the child enrichment is here. So, we have several resources here from the community and they all serve victims of sexual violence,” said Dr. Chelli Larkin, Director of Student Health Services.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Augusta University students and staff, along with others in the community gathered in the Douglas Barnard Amphitheater Tuesday, for its ‘Take Back the Night’ program. 

Local leaders lead a discussion on  sexual violence, while victims found the courage to tell their stories. 

“What we’re truly looking for is to break down the barriers of people who don’t report we know that the statics have stayed the same the one out of three report. So, we’re missing all of those people that we know if we can intervene and help them their long term out comes are much better,” said Larkin.

Plenty of resources were available on site. 

“Hope Women’s Center is a none profit organization that walks along side women in unplanned pregnancies we provide lab quality pregnancy test we provide ultrasounds we provide STI and STD testing,” said Amy Woody, Hope Women’s Center.

And the goal is the make sure victims have the support they need. 

“We just believe the importance of showing love and support for every woman and especially in a time of crisis for us to walk with them through trauma is what I believe our center is made for,” said Woody

“Our goal is to prevent this, but we also understand that this has always been around and that we are going to have victims to take care of” said Larkin.