CARES

CARES is a gender-inclusive and confidential resource available to RIT students. Women, men, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community are encouraged to call the hotline for support. Our services are accessible to individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing.

The CARES team advocate for the identified survivor/complainant in a case. We do not advocate for or serve the accused identified offender. Advocates who assist offenders are available from other sources at RIT. Although anyone involved in a case has the right to an advocate, CARES strictly serves survivors.

A CARES advocate will meet with any RIT student that is considering making a report to Public Safety, and will travel to the Public Safety Department to accompany them. If you decide to file a report with Public Safety, you can still contact CARES for additional support.

You are not required to file a Public Safety report to receive assistance from CARES. If you are not comfortable involving Public Safety, an advocate may travel to another safe location on campus if a student is in a crisis related to an incident of sexual assault, harassment, relationship violence, or stalking. We are there to make sure you are aware of your rights, know what services are available to you, and to support you in an understanding, non-judgmental manner.

The CARES Team can be contacted by phone to provide support and information at any time, day or night. During regular business hours, a staff member from Counseling and Psychological Services is available to assist you. After business hours and on weekends, breaks, and holidays, a CARES team member will respond to hotline calls.