OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sexual Assault Center (MCSAC) has officially received certification as a rape crisis center. Founded in January 2024, MCSAC was created to fill the gap in services left after Creative Services, Inc. closed its doors in 2024 after serving Marion County for nearly 50 years. The certification marks a significant milestone in MCSAC’s mission to provide high-quality, trauma-informed, survivor-centered care to those impacted by sexual violence in our community.

When Creative Services, Inc. closed in 2023, the community lost a longstanding provider of domestic and sexual violence prevention and support. In response, local leaders, advocates, and supporters came together to form a new organization dedicated to continuing that critical work. Over the past year, MCSAC launched a successful Give4Marion fundraising campaign and received a $100,000 grant from Marion County Community Services through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s community development block grant program. With this support, MCSAC was able to hire an executive director, a program coordinator, and an advocate to begin delivering vital services.

Certification as a rape crisis center confirms that MCSAC meets Florida’s required standards, including providing 24/7 crisis hotline support, advocacy and accompaniment, crisis counseling, referrals, and community education. This recognition affirms MCSAC’s dedication to quality service and enhances its capacity to expand its impact throughout the community.

This milestone reflects the collective efforts of the MCSAC’s staff, board of directors, volunteers, and countless community partners. It also acknowledges the many survivors and supporters who have walked alongside the center since its founding.

In April 2025, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners formally recognized MCSAC’s leadership during a proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The moment served as a public reminder of the important role the center plays in ensuring access to safe, informed, and compassionate care for survivors in Marion County.

The Marion County Sexual Assault Center remains committed to creating a safer, more informed, and empowered community.

For more information on the center or to join their mission as a volunteer, visit MarionSexualAssaultCenter.org or call 352-484-1002. A 24/7 crisis hotline is available at 352-633-5563.

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