Category: Helpful Tips

24 Years of Breaking the Silence: Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2025

April marks the 24th official anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but our fight against sexual violence has much deeper roots. Before SAAM was formally recognized in 2001, brave advocates were already doing the crucial work of awareness and prevention. They understood a fundamental truth: we cannot prevent what we don’t acknowledge, and awareness without… Read more »

Join Us for a Special TDVAM Movie Night: Breaking Down Stereotypes, Building Healthy Relationships

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), and Lumina Alliance is excited to invite you to a special movie screening that promises both entertainment and meaningful discussion. Join us for a free showing of “Easy A” at Colony Cinemas in Atascadero, where we’ll explore important themes about gender stereotypes and their impact on teen… Read more »

For Dana: A Sister’s Fight to End the Cycle

This story was transcribed by April Cole for the Storytellers Bureau at Lumina Alliance. It was told to April by Melinda Hatfield, who shares her family’s journey of loss, resilience, and breaking the cycle of violence. If you would like to share your story, please email [email protected] or call (805) 592-3324. The Cycle Textbook case;… Read more »

Inclusive Services & Resources: A Guide for Our Community

//Desplázate hacia abajo para español// At Lumina Alliance, our doors are open to everyone. We understand that sexual assault and intimate partner violence can impact anyone, regardless of their background, and we remain steadfast in our mission to provide safe, equitable, and inclusive services to all who need them. To foster trust and ensure safety,… Read more »

When the Magic of the Holiday Season is on Mute: When Merry and Bright are Silenced by Grief and Loss By Tanya Winje, AMFT

The holiday season is often filled with warmth and celebration, but for those navigating grief, loss, or past trauma, it can bring unique emotional challenges. In this thoughtful piece, Tanya Winje, AMFT, offers compassionate insights and practical guidance to help individuals and families find peace, honor their feelings, and approach the season with grace and… Read more »