Clarksville, Tenn. – In 1991 the Sexual Assault Center opened in Clarksville but because of funding cuts was forced to close in 2010. That all changed late last year as the center once again opened its doors in Clarksville to help victims of sexual assault. Dozens of local supporters turned out Wednesday, February 10 for the grand opening and ribbon cutting.
Valerie Guzman, Client Services and Outreach Coordinator for the Clarksville office shared her enthusiasm about how the center will help the community. “I think the best way to put it is it’s going to help with the process of healing. We’re not here just treating victims, were also here with prevention that could stop more people from being victimized,” said Guzman.
Dorlisha White, who is as she puts it, is a survivor, not a victim of sexual assault. White was raped in 2014 on Fort Campbell and said she received very little support locally until she found her way to the Sexual Assault Center office in Nashville. Staff with the center credit her with being instrumental in pushing for the reopening of the center in Clarksville.
The Sexual Assault Center in Clarksville is at 1725, Suite I, on Wilma Rudolph Boulevard, behind Jimmy John’s restaurant. Guzman said the best way to learn more about the center is to go to their website at www.sacenter.org or you can also call 931-241-4144.