Area Agency on Aging 3, in commemoration of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), April 7–13, is hoping to raise awareness about crime victims’ issues and rights and introduce the community to the important resources and services available. According to the most recent Bureau of Justice Statistics’ National Crime Victimization Survey, U.S. residents age 12 or older experienced 3.1 million violent victimizations and U.S. households experienced an estimated 13.3 million property crimes in 2017.

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of NCVRW by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf.

This year’s theme – Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future. – encourages commemoration, honor, and respect toward the crime victim advocates, allied professionals, and selfless volunteers who have courageously worked for increased rights for crime victims. The theme also invites us to look toward a future of inclusive, accessible, and innovative resources and services for survivors.

“Here at the Area Agency on Aging 3 we are grateful to be able to spotlight the need for assistance for those that have been victims of crime. With older adults and people with disabilities we unfortunately see these individuals become victims and are trying to help in any way we can. The National Crime Victims’ Right Week really helps us bring the message to the fore front and get information out utilizing social media, our website, the media, and other forms of communication,” Area Agency on Aging 3’s Chief executive Office Jacqi Bradley stated.

OVC and Area Agency on Aging 3 encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. OVC will host the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C., to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime. For additional information NCVRW and how to assist victims in your own community, please contact Area Agency on Aging 3 at 419-222-7723 or visit Area Agency on Aging 3’s website. For additional ideas on how to support victims of crime, visit OVC’s website.