Breaking the ‘cycle’: SAPR office hosts bike-a-thon

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kayla Christenson
  • Altus Public Affairs

 

Airmen from the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office hosted a bike-a-thon to raise awareness during Sexual Assault Awareness Month at Altus Air Force Base, April 17, 2021.

The local SAPR office is responsible for executing the Department of Defense’s sexual assault policy, and working hand-in-hand with supporting agencies to develop and implement innovative prevention and response programs.

“We need to do our part and bring awareness in order to try to eradicate this out of the military,” said Lisa Holt, 97th Air Mobility Wing SAPR representative. “We want people to be able to come forward and have a space where they can talk about their experience of sexual assault, if it is in the military or even prior to serving.”

Capt. Tyler George, SAPR volunteer victim advocate, stressed the importance of raising awareness of the local SAPR program and the need to care for fellow Airmen.

“The most important part of the Air Force is our people,” he said. “Not only do we want to remind participants that we are there for them, we also want to remind everyone to care for each other as wingmen.”

Capt. Benjamin Riley, 97th AMW chaplain, said it was a pleasure to support the local SAPR mission while participating in the 3-mile race around the flight line with his family.

“What an incredible way to start the morning,” he said. “When a helping agency puts on an event like the bike-a-thon, it gives a chance for the community to celebrate their work,” said Capt. Benjamin Riley, 97th Air Mobility Wing chaplain. “The sunrise and a little exercise was a great way for the family to get out and create a little joy.”

To help SAPR in the fight against sexual assault, Airmen can become Volunteer Victim Advocates. VVA’s educate their units on sexual assault prevention and assist survivors of a sexual assault by providing confidential support and coordination for care throughout the investigation and recovery process.

To report a sexual assault, seek help, or become a VVA, call the SAPR office at (580) 649-0656.