Washington County proclaims April 2026 Sexual Assault Awareness Month; care center urges residents to wear teal ribbons

The Washington County Board of Commissioners voted on April 2 to adopt a proclamation declaring April 2026 Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Commissioner Maggi read the proclamation, which highlighted prevention, survivor support and the county‑level role of the STARS care center. The board moved, seconded and approved the proclamation by roll call.

Joanna Dragon, supervisor of violence services at the care center, accepted the proclamation and thanked the commissioners for supporting prevention and outreach. Dragon described services the center provides across Washington and Greene counties, including counseling and advocacy that she said are free regardless of insurance status.

"Our team of advocates is amazing, making sure that no survivor goes without counseling or advocacy services or, you know, a response, that's what they call our hotline," Dragon said, and she urged residents to wear teal‑ribbon pins and to contact the program’s toll‑free line for support.

The proclamation names the STARS program as a vital local resource and encourages residents to participate in prevention and awareness activities during April. The board did not adopt additional funding at this meeting; the proclamation is a formal recognition and outreach step.

The care center provided a hotline number for residents seeking services and said pins are available for distribution to show support during April.