Advocacy Resource Center
About Us
The Advocacy Resource Center (ARC) provides comprehensive assistance to victims of crime. ARC staff is dedicated to providing a wide variety of services to all victims of crime, with a special focus on women and children who are in abusive relationships. The Advocacy Resource Center has certification through the National Organization for Victims Assistance. Three of the staff members have obtained certification as credentialed advocates with a designation of comprehensive victim intervention specialist.
There are three components to the Advocacy Resource Center: Advocacy, the Lodge of Bravery (domestic violence shelter) and Legal Services.
Advocacy
The Advocacy Resource Center employs Victim Advocates to provide assistance to victims of crime to manage their trauma and assist with resolution of victimization. Staff may assist with the completion of Crime Victim Compensation Applications or filing for Personal Protection Orders. Information on how the criminal justice system works and case status is provided to those with criminal cases pending. Staff may attend court hearings to provide emotional support, as well as provide testimony on behalf of a victim. A community educator is also available.
Lodge Of Bravery
For women and child victims of domestic violence in need of safety, the domestic violence shelter provides a safe place to stay. While residing at the Lodge, advocacy services as described above are made available, as is a women’s talking circle and an educational support group for women currently in or leaving a violent relationship.
Legal Aid Services
Legal aid services are available only to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking to assist with civil court proceedings, such as divorce, child custody and child support. The legal aid attorney may also assist with Personal Protection Orders (PPO) and can represent the victim in these matters.