Date started
1969
Website
What’s the story behind your organization?
In 1969, a metropolitan-wide coalition of criminal justice, health, mental health and other professionals came together to address the needs of those who had been sexually assaulted. That group evolved and incorporated in 1975 to become the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA), serving as the Kansas City area rape crisis center and later expanding services to include child sexual abuse victims and their families. Through the years, MOCSA has enhanced and increased outreach, prevention and education programs focused on students as well as professional and community groups. Today, MOCSA is a comprehensive service model that is unique and is recognized for innovative programs and quality services.
Why is your organization important to the community?
One in six women will be the victim of completed or attempted rape in her lifetime. And we know that less than 20 percent of all rapes are reported. At the same time, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused during childhood. The statistics tell us, someone you know needs MOCSA. That’s why MOCSA is here today.
Who do you support?
MOCSA provides services to men, women, children, and families who have been impacted by sexual abuse and assault. MOCSA’s service area includes six counties in the bi-state Kansas City metropolitan area: Jackson, Platte, Clay, and Cass Counties in Missouri, and Johnson and Wyandotte Counties in Kansas.
How many volunteers do you currently have (estimate)?
More than 100 volunteers have been recently trained, and currently around 30 are active and regular volunteers.
What is your biggest need right now?
Volunteers are the cornerstone of MOCSA, and they provide important services to the community. MOCSA has many opportunities for volunteers interested in serving including hospital and crisis line advocates, community outreach and education, survivors speakers, and special events/fundraising. For more information about volunteering, please https://www.mocsa.org/volunteer or email volunteer@mocsa.org.
Financial donations are always welcome. Make a one-time donation, join the monthly giving club, or purchase MOCSA merchandise. Visit https://www.mocsa.org/donate to learn more about ways to give.
What else should we know about what you do?
MOCSA’s services are completely free of charge. MOCSA is available for survivors and their loved ones in the immediate aftermath of an incident, but also days, weeks, months, or even years following an assault. Have questions or need support? Call MOCSA’s 24-hour crisis line: (816) 531-0233 or (913) 642-0233.
