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Local domestic violence resource agency expanding services

Downtown Lebanon will be painted teal for Sexual Assault Awareness month

DAYTON — The Artemis Center is expanding its services to include support for sexual assault survivors, marking a significant addition to its 40-year history of domestic violence advocacy.

The announcement coincides with Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which takes place in April, a spokesperson for the center said.

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Operating as a dual agency, the Dayton-based organization aims to fill a gap in local care by providing trauma-informed support to individuals who have experienced sexual violence.

While domestic violence remains a core focus, the center is broadening its mission to ensure all survivors have access to compassionate assistance.

Jane Keiffer serves as the executive director of the Artemis Center. She emphasized the importance of visibility for survivors during April.

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“April is a time to shine a light on survivors, their resilience, and the importance of making sure no one has to face violence alone,” Keiffer said. “Artemis has long been known for our work supporting survivors of domestic violence. Today, we want our community to know that we are also here for survivors of sexual assault.”

Survivors, family members, and concerned community members can access support through a 24-hour hotline at (937) 461-4357.

The center provides safety planning, crisis intervention, information, and connections to additional local services.

These resources are available to all people regardless of their gender or gender identity, the spokesperson said.

In-person assistance is available at the office located at 310 West Monument Avenue. Walk-in hours are held Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Keiffer noted that the organization is addressing unmet needs within the Dayton area through this expansion.

“There is a real need in our community and Artemis is stepping forward to meet it,” Keiffer said. “We are proud to carry forward our legacy of service while expanding support for survivors whose needs have too often gone unmet.”

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