City Leaders, Advocates Mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Ava
Ava Mayor Kirk Pueppke (left) signs a proclamation designating April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month while Brenda Lewis of Christos House (right) looks on.
April has been officially proclaimed Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Ava, as city officials and local advocates work to raise awareness and support prevention efforts in the community.
Mayor Kirk Pueppke signed the proclamation April 20, recognizing the impact of sexual violence nationwide and locally, while highlighting the importance of education, prevention and community involvement.
According to the proclamation, one in three women and one in six men in the United States will experience some form of domestic violence in their lifetime. In Missouri, programs serving survivors of sexual assault assisted 4,781 individuals in 2026, while an additional 1,245 requests for services went unmet.
The proclamation notes that sexual assault remains a widespread issue with significant public health implications for communities, including Ava. It emphasizes the role of advocates, professionals, volunteers and residents in working toward prevention through increased awareness, education and accountability.
Pueppke reaffirmed the city’s commitment to supporting efforts at the national, state and local levels, encouraging community members to take part in conversations about prevention, survivor support and access to services.
The proclamation also recognizes the work of local organizations such as Christos House and advocates including Brenda Lewis, who continue to provide resources and assistance to those affected by sexual violence.
By designating April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, city leaders are encouraging residents to play an active role in addressing the issue and supporting survivors throughout the community.
