The Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN) and the University’s new peer-educator program, Personal Safety and Sexual Assault Prevention (psASAP), are joining forces to raise awareness about student personal safety. A “Guarded by the Pack” safety rally on Thursday, April 9 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in front of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center will provide information and introduce students to resources to promote their individual safety and security on and around campus.

“Promoting awareness and reducing incidents of personal violence and crime on campus and in the community is very important,” said Heidi La Bash, psASAP coordinator and clinical psychology doctoral degree candidate. “The rally will be a time for students and the entire community to come together in dedication to keeping themselves and others safe.”

Representatives from a variety of University programs and community agencies will be available to talk about topics such as sexual health, sexual assault support services, prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, as well as legal, police protection and support services available to students. The fair will include games, prizes and a cake walk.

On hand will be psASAP, ASUN and the University’s Safety Action Team members, which include the University Police Services, Campus Escort Services, Office of Student Conduct, Counseling Services and the Student Health Center. Alphie, the Wolf Pack mascot, will be available for photos.

Participating city and community organizations include the Crisis Call Center, Nevada Coalition Against Sexual Violence, the Reno Police Department Victim Services Unit, as well as ultimate fighter Ken Shamrock. Shamrock will be conducting demonstrations and will be available for autographs.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and officials with the peer-educator team and members of its supporting organizations said they want to provide a caring, supportive and nurturing environment for all students this month and year round.

For more information, visit Counseling Services Sexual Assault Prevention or email unrpsasap@gmail.com. For concerns or questions about personal safety or the safety of others, contact (775) 784-4648.