What Is Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault?

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of power and control—not just a single incident. It can include physical harm, emotional abuse, financial control, intimidation, isolation, digital abuse, and threats. Survivors often navigate these experiences quietly, feeling afraid, ashamed, or unsure where to turn. Domestic violence impacts individuals of every age, background, and identity. Its effects ripple far beyond the immediate harm, influencing long-term safety, health, stability, and well-being for survivors and their children.

What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact or behavior carried out through force, coercion, manipulation, or when a person is unable to consent. It is an act rooted in power, not passion. Survivors may face trauma that affects their physical, emotional, and psychological health long after the assault occurs. At the Ember Center, we believe every survivor deserves safety, dignity, and support. Through shelter, advocacy, therapy, and community education, we work to break the cycle of violence and empower survivors as they rebuild their lives.

If you, or someone you know, has been impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault, call Ember Center today at 303-688-8484.

National Statistics:

In the U.S., nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, amounting to more than 10 million victims annually.

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lives.

About 3 women are killed every day in the U.S. by a current or former intimate partner.

When it comes to sexual violence, every 68 seconds someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted.

1 in 6 American women has experienced an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime.

About 3% of American men (or 1 in 33) have experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime.

Sources: NCADV (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: thehotline.org); RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network: rainn.org)

Questions to Ask Yourself About Seeking Help:

Have I experienced physical harm, threats, or intimidation?

Am I being controlled or isolated from friends, family, or resources?

Do I feel unsafe in my own home or relationship?

Has someone pressured or forced me into sexual activity without my consent?

Do I feel constantly anxious, on edge, or emotionally drained because of someone’s behavior?

Am I worried about my children’s safety or well-being?

Have I considered leaving, but feel unsure or unsafe about how to do so?

Do I need someone to listen, support me, and help me understand my options?