Did you know that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are seven times more likely than people without disabilities to be sexually assaulted? Even more startling research out of the University of Michigan has shown that more than 90% of people with developmental disabilities may experience sexual assault at some point in their lives.

With funding from the US Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women, Quality Trust has worked for nearly ten years to educate people with IDD in the District of Columbia about sexual violence and to create systems that are able to help prevent sexual violence and support survivors when it happens. Our partners in this effort include Project ACTION!, the DC Rape Crisis Center, and for the last three years, the DC Department on Disability Services. While there is so much still to be done, Quality Trust is committed to improving access to information and supports for people with IDD who are survivors of sexual violence. In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, learn more about Quality Trust’s current efforts in this newsletter.

In addition, in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, please join me in recognizing each member of Quality Trust’s Board of Directors who graciously volunteer their time, resources, and energy to make sure that Quality Trust continues providing quality advocacy for people with IDD in the District and beyond. We are so thankful for their support.