OVC to Honor Exemplary Victims Service Providers


The Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) will honor outstanding individuals, teams, and organizations in the victim’s service provider field at the 2016 National Crime Victims Service Awards. Public nominations are used to determine which organizations will receive the award. The awards are a way for OVC to observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which runs from April 19-April 25. Nominations for 2016 awards remain open through July 30, 2015.

There are 11 award categories available for nomination. For 2016, OVC has added a new category: the “Tomorrows Leaders Award.” This award will focus on youth up to the age of 24 who have dedicated their time or efforts to helping victims of crimes. The remaining awards focus on a variety of different service areas. One award, the “Special Courage Award,” seeks to honor a survivor who has displayed great valor in overcoming their victimization. Several awards focus on the legal or policy aspects of victims services. There is also an award for professionals outside the victim’s service field who have served as allies.

In 2015, Attorney General Eric Holder spoke at the award ceremony. Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs, Karol Mason, also gave a speech. Speakers for 2016 are yet to be announced.

Visit this link to nominate a service provider: https://ovcncvrw.ncjrs.gov/awards/preparation.html

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