Episode 309: On Empowering Allies and Supporting Survivors: A Conversation with Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region’s Anna Najcler

In this episode, Caitlin Plant, Program Manager at Distress and Crisis Ontario, speaks with Anna Najcler, Volunteer Coordinator at the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region (SASC). Anna shares her journey to her current role, highlighting the essential qualities she looks for in volunteers, how SASC provides comprehensive training and support, and the unique needs of survivors from diverse backgrounds. They also discuss debunking common misconceptions about sexual assault and the broad range of services SASC offers.
The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of working in this sensitive area, practical steps for becoming an ally, and what changes are needed to foster safer communities.
To learn more about the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region or to get involved, visit sascwr.org.
To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member Centre. Many of our centres operate 24/7. Thank you for joining us, and we hope this episode encourages you to continue the conversation. If you have feedback or future content requests, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/o8yUPMss6wo8dP1X8.