San Antonio's community of nonprofits are quite extraordinary, if we do say so ourselves. From institutions fighting food insecurity like the San Antonio Food Bank to making women's health products more accessible thanks to Periodpalooza, there's no shortage of community-minded efforts.

Today we’re taking a look at one of them — the lasting legacy of the Alamo Area Rape Crisis Center (RCC) and its 50 year impact.

We sat down with Lauren Aguillon, the RCC's Digital Media & Community Outreach Coordinator, to learn more about the organization.

Community impact

The RCC offers a range for services that are available to not only Bexar County residents, but also across the country.

Through its 50 years, the center continues to offer:

Client advocacy involving legal, housing, or career assistance
Bilingual counseling for individuals, couples, or families
Education for the community via workshops and partnerships
Crisis hotline

“A lot of people don’t know that we have a hotline that operates 24/7, 365 days a year," said Aguillon. This service, in addition to the ones that are listed, are offered at no cost to the client.

The resources at the RCC are free for anyone to use. | Photo by Brenda Bazan

Getting involved

If you're looking to get involved with the organization by being a volunteer, check out the RCC's requirements. Here's the different departments you can have a hand in:

Community outreach: Representing the organization by attending health fairs
Volunteer Generalist: Helping with front desk admin work and answering phones
Crisis Hotline: Providing online and phone support to clients
Hospital advocate: Participating in client advocacy , outreach, and emotional support

"The center recently held a crafting event where guests were able set an affirmation that they wanted for the year regarding healing, and used art as a vehicle for healing," says Aguillon.

You don't have to be a volunteer or attend its community events to join the RCC's mission. The center also accepts monetary donations if you feel like giving an anonymous donation.

Planning ahead

When we asked Lauren where she thinks the RCC will be in the next 50 years, she shared, "Hopefully in our own building with community + event spaces, community garden, art center, and stocked community pantry complete with dry goods and fresh produce."

The organization is now accepting sponsorship opportunities for its upcoming Light the Path to Healing Gala taking place on September 9 at the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

Too far out? Not to worry, because the center is getting in on the Fiesta festivities by offering two Fiesta medals for purchase — the first time in the organization's history.

For even more ways to get involved with San Antonio's nonprofit community, check out our City Guide which features 15+ organizations. Your favorite organization not listed? Let us know.