CARE Advocates

Support for UNL students, staff, and faculty impacted by sexual violence, dating/domestic violence, stalking, and sexual harassment.

We believe you and are here to listen and support you.

We offer an inclusive and trauma-informed space and survivor-centered approach, providing confidential support that is focused on individual needs and concerns. Advocates will help you understand and navigate supportive resources and the reporting options available, while respecting and supporting individual decisions.

CARE Advocate sitting across from a student

CARE Advocates can provide a variety of support services including:

A safe space for you to process your feelings and reactions
Safety planning
Access to temporary safe housing on campus
Assistance navigating reporting options (on and off campus)
Accompaniment and coordination for interviews and appointments
Connection to supportive measures including academic and housing modifications
Referrals to campus and community resources

Who We Support

All Huskers (undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff) who have been impacted by sexual violence, domestic/dating violence, stalking, and sexual harassment.

We are committed to providing judgement free advocacy to survivors of all identities and experiences, providing a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for all Huskers.

Our services are not just for those who have experienced interpersonal violence, but also for those who may be supporting a friend or peer who has been impacted. If there are situations you are unsure how to handle or are struggling with how to be supportive, fell free to reach out. CARE can provide insight and information on supportive measures.

Advocacy services are free to students regardless of how many credit hours you are enrolled in.

CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT

Sharing your story with a CARE Advocate does not mean you are reporting to the University. Communication between you and your Advocate will not be shared with any person or office without your consent.

CARE Advocates are a confidential resource per Nebraska Revised Statute 29-4303.

CARE Advocates are designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSA). Federal law requires CSAs to report non-identifying information about certain incidents including the date, time, location, and type of crime (such as sexual assault) to be included in the University’s Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report and if appropriate, for the purpose of issuing a safety alert or other emergency notification. CARE Advocates do not include the name of the reporting student or other individuals in the report unless the student requests that we do so.

*Technology and confidentiality

Emailing with CARE Services is not a secure form of communication since complete confidentiality cannot be guaranteed with electronic messages.

What to Expect When Meeting with an Advocate

You will be listened, heard, believed, and respected.

You will lead the conversation and will control all choices. There is no pressure to discuss anything you’re not comfortable with, including personal, difficult, or traumatic experiences. Share only what feels right for you. Your information is yours, and you decide if and how it’s shared.

Discuss concerns, needs, and resources

CARE Advocates focus on individual needs. Each situation is unique, but we may provide a variety of support services, including:

A safe space for you to process your feelings and reactions
Safety planning
Access to temporary safe housing on campus
Connection to supportive measures including academic and housing modifications
Referrals to campus and community resources

Explore reporting options- if you'd like

With an Advocate, you will be able to tell your story confidentially. You will be supported in your decision to report or not to report to police, Institutional Equity and Compliance (Title IX) or neither—the choice is yours.

Advocates can:

Assist with navigating reporting options (on and off campus)
Accompany and help coordinate interviews and appointments

Support the choices you make

Advocates provide information-based guidance allowing each individual to make choices best for them.

It is our goal to help you:

Regain control that may have felt lost
Identify needs and preferred outcomes

How to Make an Appointment with a CARE Advocate

CARE Advocates will work with you to find a time that is best suited to fit your schedule. Please call or email us during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to set up an appointment.

Advocates can meet in-person, over the phone, or via Zoom- the choice is yours!