Meet NORA: A New Name for Riverside's 51-Year-Old Rape Crisis Center

The Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center is embracing a new identity as NORA, a name rooted in humanity and hope. The rebranding, announced on Nov. 1, 2024, marks a significant shift in the organization's approach to addressing sexual violence and supporting survivors.

NORA, which stands for Nurture, Outreach, Resiliency, and Advocacy, signifies "honor" and encapsulates the center's mission of a community-centered approach to ending sexual violence.

Dr. Adriane Lamar Snider, Chief Executive Officer at NORA, explains the motivation behind the change. "At NORA, we center survivors' experiences, honoring their stories and resilience," she says. "Harnessing our collective vision and strength, we're creating brighter futures and a better world for all."

The rebranding comes after 51 years of service. Since 1973, the organization has expanded its services from crisis intervention to include education, counseling, and long-term support for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Amy Hoyt, Board President and Gala Chair, expresses enthusiasm for the new direction. "We are very excited to announce our new vision—NORA," she says. "Nurture, outreach, resiliency, and advocacy embody both our mission and the life-saving work of NORA's advocates. We look forward to the next 50 years of serving the community as NORA."

The former Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center worked with downtown Riverside's nonprofit brand strategy agency, Legible, to bring this vision to life.

"We believe in empowering organizations that create good in their communities," says Merea Price, President of Legible. "It was a special honor to partner with the Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center for their rebrand. Through this rebrand, we've aimed to reflect the compassion, resilience, and strength they embody every day. We're honored to be part of their journey and support their work in our community wholeheartedly."

The rebranding aims to break down stigmas and reshape how the community perceives support services. By leading with values of hope and unity, NORA invites Riverside's community members to call upon them not just in moments of crisis but as a trusted ally in resilience and transformation.

This shift in identity reflects a broader commitment to humanize the organization's mission, prioritizing healing, community support, and resilience. The new name aims to inspire individuals to seek support without the barriers often associated with terms like "crisis" or "rape."

NORA services continue to encompass a wide range of support for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. The organization offers critical resources, from immediate response to long-term counseling, serving Riverside and surrounding areas.

The rebranding process involved careful consideration of the organization's story and future goals. By moving away from language that may deter individuals from seeking help, NORA hopes to create a more welcoming and accessible environment for those in need of support.

Dr. Snider emphasizes the importance of this new approach in addressing sexual violence. "Our new identity as NORA allows us to focus on the strength and resilience of survivors rather than defining them by their experiences of trauma," she says.

The organization's website, rarcc.org, remains active as the transition to the new brand takes place. Community members are encouraged to visit the site for more information about NORA's services and mission.

As NORA embarks on this new chapter, the organization reaffirms its dedication to nurturing healing, fostering resilience, and advocating for survivors. The rebranding represents not just a change in name but a renewed commitment to creating safe, supportive communities and working towards a future free from sexual violence.