Our History

In 1975, a task force of the National Organization for Women met to address rape and sexual assault issues in Westmoreland County. The result was Westmoreland Alliance Against Rape whose hotline answered its first call on December 6, 1976.

Since then, what is now Blackburn Center has grown to a staff of more than 30, with an active team of volunteers. Through this growth, we have developed an array of services for adult and child victims of sexual assault and domestic violence as well as comprehensive community education and professional in-service training programs.

Blackburn Center's Mission

Over the years, Blackburn Center's mission has remained the same. Every year, thousands of people reach out for our services. Blackburn Center will continue to support victims with our shelter, counseling, and advocacy services as long as there are victims who need us. However, for our daughters and granddaughters—and for our sons and grandsons, we must work toward a better future. Blackburn Center urges members of the community to join us in our work to end domestic and sexual violence by changing their own attitudes about these crimes and challenging others to do the same.

The information on this site is for educational purposes. It is not intended to take the place of professional services or medical or mental health treatment.