Celebrating a Champion for Survivors

We’re proud to share the news that one of our Sexual Assault Response Advocates (SARAs), Elizabeth Lopez, was nominated and awarded the 2026 Crime Victim's Rights Week Outstanding Volunteer award from the Delaware Victim's Rights Task Force.

This award is given every year during Crime Victims’ Rights Week to recognize that incredible work of organizations serving victims of crime. Elizabeth was nominated for her compassion, dedication, and commitment to victims of crime.

Elizabeth Lopez, YWCA Delaware SARA (Left)
Lauren White, YWCA Delaware SARC Legal and Medical Services Trainer

Elizabeth has been a helpline advocate for the Sexual Assault Response Center for over eight years and has been an invaluable resource for many victims and survivors. Elizabeth volunteers from Sussex County, answering YWCA Delaware’s 24/7 statewide Sexual Assault Response Center (SARC) crisis intervention helpline. She offers listening support and referral to resources including emergency shelter, mental health referrals, crisis intervention, suicide prevention and access to protection orders. Elizabeth also helps callers create safety plans, provide information on medical and legal options, and connects them to SARC case managers and counseling services.

Since 2018, Elizabeth has completed over 14,000 volunteer hours with SARC. She frequently takes the overnight and weekend shifts and responds with compassion, patience, and understanding at all hours of the day. Elizabeth embodies advocacy in her quiet, selfless, consistent, and giving attitude and has assisted thousands of survivors in taking steps toward hope and healing.

Interested in becoming a Sexual Assault Response Advocate for YWCA Delaware? Fill out a volunteer form here.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, our 24/7 helpline is here for you. Call 800-773-8570 to speak with an advocate.