PARIS – The Rape Education and Crisis Hotline (R.E.A.C.H.) announces the recent hiring of Jeanie Stone as the school-based educator. Her extensive experience in working with area youth will be an asset to the organization as well as to her as she works to present sexual violence prevention and awareness presentations to the schools.

Stone has a long history of contributing to the communities of Oxford Hills, including owning and operating the Jack and Jill Shoppe, a children’s clothing business in Norway for 17 years. Over the past eight years, Stone has served as the Oxford Hills Respect Team advisor, Teen Impact coordinator, Y.E.S.S. advisor and Skate Park Committee advisor. She has also led prevention programs, including the successful programs for young women in Norway last spring and summer.

The position of school-based educator is important in the work of prevention of sexual violence. Bullying, teasing and harassment that is seen in the elementary grades is often the precursor to sexual harassment and sexual assault later on.

R.E.A.C.H. was established in 1982 to provide support and advocacy to victims and survivors of sexual assault and sexual abuse. It maintains a toll free 24-hour hot line, 1-800-871-7741. Services that R.E.A.C.H. provides include support groups, accompaniment to medical exams, police interviews and court proceedings, community education and awareness as well as a lending library. For more information, call the office at 743-9777.