Skip to main content

Below are some some suggestions for supporting a friend or family member who has experienced sexual harassment.

Get to a safe place

Your safety is the HIGHEST priority. If you feel unsafe, IMMEDIATELY contact the Point Park Police Department by dialing 412-392-3960 or text 412-267-7847 OR call the Pittsburgh Police at 911.

Reach out for help

It can be difficult to think clearly if you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual harassment and abuse. Sexual harassment and abuse can bring up uncomfortable feelings and it may be hard to maintain daily routines and re-connect. Talking with someone can help. You can call PAAR at 1-866-END-RAPE. You should not go through this alone. Use the resources listed below for support and counseling. Friends and family may also offer support and care.

Seek medical attention

Go to a hospital emergency department to check for and treat injuries and to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Ask the hospital staff to call an in-person advocate to help and support you from PAAR at 1-866-END-RAPE.

Have evidence collected

If you choose to report the assault or pursue legal options, physical evidence can be important. Forensic evidence can be collected 5 to 10 days after the assault. Valuable evidence may remain on your body or clothing. Try not to change your clothes. Try not to bathe, shower, eat, drink, brush your teeth or go to the bathroom before going to the emergency room.

Reporting the harassment or assault

Call 911.

Sexual assault is a crime and no matter the details of the incident, it was NOT your fault. **If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the assault you will NOT be charged for using either.

Consider reaching out to Point Park University resources

  • Student Life staff, 7th Floor Student Center, including Resident Directors and Resident Educators, can provide resources, explain your options and support you through the healing process.
  • Office of Student Affairs and Office of Student Conduct can assist in academic and residential support and supply information about the University's disciplinary process, your rights under Title IX, and legal options.
  • University Counseling Center, 3rd Floor Student Center, 412-392-3977 or counseling@pointpark.edu 
  • Student Health Center, 3rd Floor Student Center, 412-392-3800 or studenthealth@pointpark.edu 
  • Stephanie Stark Poling, Title IX Coordinator, 412-392-8158 or sstarkpoling@pointpark.edu 
  • Amanda Avampato, Director of Compliance & Integrity, 412-392-3407 or aavampato@pointpark.edu 

You can reach out to off-campus resources

  • Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC (Oakland), 300 Halket St., Pittsburgh, 412-641-1000
  • UPMC Mercy (Uptown), 1400 Locust St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219, 412-232-8222
  • Pittsburgh Action Against Rape 1-866-END-RAPE (363-7273), www.paar.net

Supporting friends

Many victims of sexual violence and abuse may struggle with feelings of guilt, shame and sadness. Providing comfort and support to victims can often mean just listening without judgment and without asking questions. Knowing what to say can help reassure victims that their feelings and reactions are appropriate and expected.

  • "I am so sorry to hear that happened to you."
  • "I believe you and want to help."
  • uSafeUS App: Provides on-campus, off-campus, and national resources to students.