IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION declaring April 27th as Start by Believing Day in Jackson County, Missouri and recognizing the Metropolitan Organization Countering Sexual Assault for fifty years of combating sexual offenses and supporting victims.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22251, April 27, 2026
INTRODUCED BY Jalen Anderson, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Jackson County, Missouri is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and equitable community for all residents; and,
WHEREAS, Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed each April to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities on prevention and support for survivors; and,
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA) has served Jackson County for nearly 50 years as the region's only comprehensive rape crisis center, providing free and confidential services to thousands of individuals each year; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA's mission is to improve the lives of those impacted by sexual abuse and assault and to prevent sexual violence in our community; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA provides critical, survivor-centered services including a 24-hour crisis line, hospital advocacy, and law enforcement advocacy to ensure survivors are supported during some of their most vulnerable moments; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA offers legal advocacy and court support, counseling services for survivors and their families, and ongoing care that promotes healing, stability, and empowerment; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA delivers education programming to youth across public, private, and charter schools throughout Jackson County, equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to build healthy relationships and prevent violence; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA engages in community-wide prevention efforts across neighborhoods and coalitions to address the root causes of violence and create safer, more connected communities; and,
WHEREAS, MOCSA's Sexual Assault Free En...
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