50th Anniversary

Celebrating 50 years

Welcome to our 50th year anniversary page! Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) was the first victim service agency in Allegheny County, and one of the first rape crisis centers in the nation. We have been fighting for victims and their families through counseling and case management, as well as through our legal & medical advocacy support.

PAAR’s vision is to create a place of hope and healing for all victims of sexual violence and that starts with being committed to extending our reach and deepening our connection in the greater community.

The effects of rape, assault, and harassment are devastating, leaving an imprint on victims’ lives that diminish their quality of life and dims their light. What’s even worse is that many victims don’t report these crimes or seek the help they deserve due to the public scrutiny, shame and fear they have in coming forward with their truth. We work to help survivors reclaim their dignity and take back their lives.

As we talk about the work that continues to be done, we also recognize the need to shift and evolve to meet the needs of ALL individuals in Allegheny County. This shift will not happen overnight- we know change takes time.

A quote by Maya Angelou reads “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This is the work. Making sure every individual feel seen, heard, and most importantly BELIEVED.