Our History

Sage Advocacy Center began as an initiative in 1977 led by a group of volunteers from the Wenatchee Police Department (WPD). The Wenatchee Police Department recognized the need for community support for victims of sexual assault. The agency started with a 24-hour crisis line and advocacy services staffed by volunteers.  

 

In 1978, domestic violence services were added to the agency’s offerings, and it was issued 501 c (3) status and named the Wenatchee Rape Crisis Center. A food and clothing bank were added to its services, and in 1990, an emergency shelter program was established, offering temporary housing to women and children fleeing domestic violence.  

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Sage Advocacy Center serves as the only accredited Children's Advocacy Center serving Chelan and Douglas counties. Sage partners with the Wenatchee and East Wenatchee Police Departments, the Chelan and Douglas County Sheriff's Offices, the Chelan and Douglas County Prosecuting Attorney's Offices, and DCYF to coordinate on child abuse investigations. The Sage team conducts child forensic interviews and  supports children who have experienced abuse. To support these children in forensic interviews and in court, we rely on our court facilitator dog, Hank, who continues to serve our community. 

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Sage Advocacy Center offers wrap-around support services to our clients. These services include general advocacy, legal advocacy, medical advocacy, therapy, support groups, emergency shelter, emergency financial assistance, a 24/7 helpline, a food bank and so much more. Last year, we served more than a thousand survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crimes. All of our services are free.​​