Helplines
Resources for Immediate Support
About Helplines
Helplines, also known as crisis lines and hotlines, are a valuable resource for athlete survivors of abuse, allies and friends, and witnesses and whistleblowers to seek support about the abuse they have experienced.
Helplines and hotlines are available, although some only return or answer calls during business hours. We denote here if the line is a 24/7 line – that means that it is available all day, every day.
These resources can further connect you with local services and local expertise on how the processes work in your community.
Courage First Athlete Helpline
The Courage First Athlete Helpline is a no-cost call, text, and chat service for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone in sports communities who has questions or concerns about abuse or mental well-being in athletics.
1-888-279-1026
https://www.athletehelpline.org/
Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN)
The Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN) is a national 24/7 hotline that organizes the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline. The Hotline is a free referral service that can put you in contact with your local rape crisis center. You can call the Hotline at 1-800-656-4673, or access RAINN’s online chat service at: https://hotline.rainn.org/online
Local Rape Crisis Programs
You can also find a rape crisis center or sexual assault program near you through the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC). NSVRC also has resources, reading material, and a library of articles on many topics related to sexual violence.
https://www.nsvrc.org/directory-organizations/
Child Advocacy Centers
You can find a directory of child advocacy centers (CAC) that work on providing services to children who are victims/survivors of abuse. Because these laws differ by state, it can be helpful to connect with local service providers that understand the statutes and processes in your community.