Victim Advocate Program

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Topic: Victim Advocate Program Course: Domestic Violence – BEHS 453 Introduction The objectives of this paper are to provide information on the Victim Advocate Program and identify the domestic/family violence task force in my community. The information obtained in this paper is the results of interviews, both telephonic and face-to-face, with the Victim Advocate Coordinator and her assistant who is located in the Army Community Services, at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. The Victim Advocate Program is just one of the many services provided by the Family Advocacy Program. It was established at Fort Leonard Wood in 1999. The Victim Advocate Coordinator is the key person who manages, track, and respond to incidents involving domestic violence victims. I was told this program falls under the overarching Family Advocacy Program, which was established throughout the United States Army in 1983 to serve as an advocate for the needs of the families, especially in the areas of child and spouse abuse. The program includes prevention, Identification, reporting, investigation, and treatment of spouse and child abuse. Their rules are governed by Army Regulations. The mission of the Victim Advocate Program is to ensure that each reported, key word reported, victim of domestic violence receives support and assistance through the services of a Victim Advocate. These services are provided for active duty military, retirees, and their families. The Advocate’s job is to inform victims of their rights and options within the military and civilian community. They provide emotional support, safety planning, referrals and accompany victims to the available services. Basically, the Advocate runs interference with service providers, agencies, and commands on behalf of the victim to increase awareness and support. The Victim Advocate Program also assists in

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