SAAM Events - Frequently Asked Questions | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)

SAAM FAQs

How can I find a speaker for my SAAM event?

We recommend getting in touch with your state coalition or local rape crisis center — they often have individuals who are available to speak at events. The following national organizations also host speakers’ bureaus and storytelling projects: The Voices and Faces Project, PAVE, Voices Over Violence, Mirror Memoirs, and 1 in 6.

Can NSVRC be a speaker at my SAAM event?

Due to the volume of requests we receive, NSVRC has very limited capacity to present during the month of April. However, this is a perfect opportunity for you to partner with local organizations. You can search our directory to connect with state, territory, or tribal organizations in your area: https://www.nsvrc.org/organizations

What is Mobilize? How can I use NSVRC’s Mobilize page?

Mobilize is an online platform used by nonprofits and advocacy organizations to organize and promote virtual and in-person events. You can add your own event to NSVRC’s Mobilize listing, boosting its visibility to our national audience. You can also utilize our event templates, which make it quick and easy to host an event for your community.

I want to host a virtual event. What technology should I use?

There are lots of platforms you can use to host a virtual event. Zoom, Google Meet, Webex, and GoTo Meeting are all popular platforms that include capabilities like group chatting, screen sharing, captioning, and creating breakout rooms. Many of these platforms offer free or paid versions. Depending on your event, you may find that one platform meets your needs better than another.

What types of virtual SAAM events can I host?

The sky is truly the limit when it comes to virtual events, but some of the most popular online events we’ve seen in the past include concerts, plays, or poetry readings; workshops or trainings; virtual runs/walks; film screenings and discussions; and survivor support groups. Our SAAM Event Planning 101 series can also help provide some inspiration.

How do I use the event templates?

Whether you’re a first-time SAAM event planner, strapped for time, or just looking for fresh new event ideas, our event templates are for you! Browse our list of templates and click “Get Started” on any event that interests you. The event title, photo, description will auto populate, but feel free to customize as much — or as little — as you want! All you have to do is indicate whether the event is public (viewable on our national list) or private and in-person or virtual. Add the date and time, and your event is ready to share!

Are there recordings of past events?

Since previous SAAM events were hosted by individuals and organizations outside of NSVRC, we do not have access to any recordings. You may be able to contact the event organizer directly to see if a recording is available.

Can NSVRC promote my event?

While we can’t promote individual events, we will be regularly directing our audience to check out the ever-growing events list!

How can I get more participants signed up to attend my SAAM event?

The best way to attract more participants for your event is to share the information far and wide! The Mobilize platform makes it easy for you to share your event on social media — you can post to your own account or to your organization’s. Email the event link to your networks and ask them to share. Make sure to remind people of the date, time, and location — and encourage attendees to bring a friend or two!

I am a survivor and I want to be a speaker and share my story.

Deciding to tell your story can be a powerful part of your healing process. The following resources can help you think through what it means to go public with your story:

If this is a step you want to take, there are several ways you can do it. You can get in touch with your state, territory, or tribal coalition to see if they have a speakers’ bureau. You can also reach out to programs in your area to find out if they are looking for survivors to speak at a local SAAM event. These national organizations also host speakers’ bureaus and storytelling projects: The Voices and Faces Project, PAVE, Voices Over Violence, Mirror Memoirs, and 1 in 6.

You may want to share your story digitally — on a blog, in a video, or on social media. If that’s the case, remember that stories shared on the internet can be far-reaching and may elicit a wide range of responses or reactions. If possible, ask a friend or trusted person to help monitor and moderate the comments to reduce victim-blaming or harmful statements.