Deputy Mayor Quander. Photo by Sarah Anne Hughes.

The D.C. government officially launched an app today to assist victims of sexual assault, in particular those under the age of 35.

ASK D.C. will provide resources from 33 different agencies to victims of sexual assault or partner violence and those looking to assist them. The app is the brainchild of Men Can Stop Rape, a D.C.-based group that promotes a national message of male involvement in stopping sexual assault.

At a press conference today to launch the app, Melissa Hooks, director of the Office of Victim Services, called it an “incredible resource.” The app is targeted at people between the ages of 18 and 35, Hooks explained, because statistics show this group is most affected by sexual assault. The app – which is available through the iTunes app store, Google Play store and Blackberry App World – is believed to be the first of its kind.

Assistant Police Chief Peter Newsham said the app would also benefit friends and family of victims, as well as help with outreach. Sexual assault is still “largely underreported” in D.C., according to Newsham.

Also in attendance at the press conference was Col. Christian Cabaniss, commanding officer at the Marine Barracks in D.C. At least 1,200 Marines have been trained in bystander intervention thus far, Hooks said. Cabaniss said the training will “help improve upon what we’ve been doing” and will continue.

Men Can Stop Rape executive director Neil Irvin showed off some of the app’s features. The words “Confidential. Free. Safe” are prominently displayed on the first screen. Users can navigate to find resources including free rides, 24-hour chat and information about what to expect during an exam.

A member of the street team promoting the app said those who have seen it “really enjoyed” what it’s capable of. One can “feel like you’re apart of the prevention effort,” the team member said, adding that it makes a person an “instant advocate.”