Empowering learners worldwide
A nonprofit built by a survivor, guided by lived experience, and committed to change
SSTA AWARE was founded to bring sibling sexual trauma and abuse out of silence and into the conversations, systems, and policies that protect children. We exist to educate families, equip professionals, and advocate for a future where children are seen, heard, and supported.
At SSTA AWARE, we believe this is not a small gap at the edge of the system. It is a gap at the center of it. That is why we work to close it through awareness, education, partnership, and advocacy.
The problem we are solving
Breaking the silence around sibling sexual abuse
Mission
To embed SSTA into every framework that shapes child safety through education, data collection, professional training, and prevention policy — through strategic partnerships, shared learning, and systemic change.
Vision
To create a national shift in awareness, prevention, and response by ensuring that sibling sexual trauma and abuse is recognized, researched, and included within all child protection and prevention systems.
Trauma-informed training
Breaking stigma and silence
Every safe conversation can change a life. impactful online courses, enhanced experiences
My journey with Sibling Sexual Trauma/Abuse started before I was born. I believe that one of the driving forces behind the SSTA in my home was the existence of generational trauma in my family system. My parents’ inability to meet the emotional needs of their children, coupled with their age, their own unmet emotional needs, and historical family trauma, left my brother and me in a home that lacked healthy boundaries, consistency, or proper supervision. For years, I lived in fear and shame, hiding the trauma of my childhood. Besieged by a lifetime of dysfunctional coping mechanisms, I found I could no longer manage my life, and finally sought help.
I have been telling my story to friends and family for the last 25 years to process and free myself from the shame that silenced me for the first 30. Today, I tell my story to shine a light on this silent epidemic and give others hope.
Over the years, my goal has always been the same: to grow, heal, and give space for others to feel seen and heard. As I advocate for myself, I advocate for you. Wherever you are, know that there is a community of people who have walked in your shoes and understand your pain. You are not alone.
With Gratitude,
Colleen Mullowney Psy. M.
Our Founder
SSTA AWARE was founded by Colleen Mullowney, a lived-experience advocate dedicated to bringing awareness, education, and prevention resources to sibling sexual trauma and abuse. Her work includes a 45-minute introductory presentation, the ONE WORD Initiative, professional development, coalition-building, and strategic advocacy. She also has a Master’s in Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles and is a certified instructor in ECHO Training and Education and a facilitator for Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children.
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Ways to engage
Training, volunteering, donations, and partnership options are visible right away.
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Faster access to help
Use concise routes for urgent help, reporting, and referrals.
Meet our board members
Our board
Our board members bring together diverse experience, insight, and dedication to guide SSTA AWARE’s mission with integrity and compassion. Together, they help strengthen our vision, support meaningful partnerships, and expand access to the resources families and communities need.
Colleen Mullowney
Founder
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Meet our team
Our team
Our team brings together finance, research, and communications support to advance our mission with care and purpose. Together, we work to build awareness, strengthen partnerships, and expand access to meaningful resources.
Sophia Bennett
Digital Specialist
Israel Precious
Technology Specialists
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