About Nova (network of victim assistance)
Nova (Network of Victim Assistance) - Providing Support and Advocacy for Victims of Crime
Founded in 1974, Nova (Network of Victim Assistance) is a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy for victims of crime. It was the first rape crisis center in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and continues to be the only one to this day. Nova's mission is to provide comprehensive services to victims of all types of crimes, including sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, homicide, and other violent crimes.
Nova's team consists of highly trained professionals who are dedicated to helping victims overcome the trauma they have experienced. The organization offers a wide range of services that are designed to meet the unique needs of each victim. These services include crisis intervention and counseling; legal advocacy; medical advocacy; court accompaniment; support groups; education and prevention programs.
Crisis Intervention and Counseling
Nova provides immediate crisis intervention services 24 hours a day through its hotline service. The hotline is staffed by trained volunteers who offer emotional support, information about available resources, safety planning advice as well as referrals for additional assistance if needed.
In addition to its hotline service Nova also offers individual counseling sessions with licensed therapists who specialize in working with victims of crime. These sessions are designed to help individuals cope with their trauma by providing them with tools they need to manage their emotions effectively.
Legal Advocacy
Nova's legal advocates work closely with law enforcement agencies as well as prosecutors' offices throughout Bucks County. They provide assistance in navigating the criminal justice system by explaining legal procedures such as filing restraining orders or obtaining protective orders against abusers.
Medical Advocacy
Victims often require medical attention after experiencing violence or abuse. Nova's medical advocates accompany survivors during forensic exams at hospitals or clinics where evidence can be collected for use in criminal investigations if necessary.
Court Accompaniment
Going through court proceedings can be intimidating especially when it comes down testifying against an abuser or attacker but Nova provides court accompaniment which means that someone from NOVA will accompany you throughout your time at court so you don't feel alone during this difficult time.
Support Groups
NOVA has various support groups available depending on what type(s)of crime(s)you have been affected by so you can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences which helps create a sense community among survivors while also providing emotional support from people who understand what it feels like firsthand .
Education & Prevention Programs
NOVA offers educational programs aimed at preventing future incidents from happening such as workshops on healthy relationships , consent , bystander intervention etc . They also offer training sessions for professionals such as law enforcement officers , healthcare providers etc so they know how best respond when dealing with cases involving victims .
Conclusion
In conclusion NOVA has been serving Bucks County since 1974 providing comprehensive services aimed at supporting survivors while advocating on their behalf . Their team consists highly trained professionals dedicated towards helping those affected by violent crimes get back on track towards healing . If you're looking for an organization that truly cares about making positive change within our communities then look no further than NOVA!