Ohio Victim Witness Association Inc.

The Ohio Victim Witness Association Inc. (OVWA) is a nonprofit organization established in 1978, aimed at supporting victims of crime across Ohio. It operates as a statewide network of victim service providers, enhancing services for crime victims and witnesses.

Background

OVWA was formed as a response to the growing need for victim services, which were initially supported by federal grants through the Law Enforcement Assistance Agency (LEAA) in the mid-1970s. Initially comprising eight county prosecutors' Victim/Witness divisions, OVWA expanded to include advocates from various public and private agencies to ensure comprehensive coverage across Ohio.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of OVWA is to be a leader in Ohio for crime victims, advocates, and allied professionals by promoting best practices that result in meaningful rights and quality services. Its vision is to ensure access to equitable and meaningful victim services throughout the state.

Key Activities and Programs

• Advocates Riding the "Circuit" Program: OVWA utilizes this program to deliver services statewide, particularly in high-profile or resource-intensive cases. It provides trained advocates who can assist with crisis responses, specialized interviews, and educational support on the court system.
• Training and Education: OVWA offers training to police departments and other agencies on topics such as victim sensitivity, child abuse, and domestic violence. It also helps jurisdictions develop their own training curricula.
• Advocacy and Policy Work: OVWA has been instrumental in public policy efforts, notably contributing to the passage of Ohio's first victims' rights constitutional amendment in 1996. It continues to advocate for victims' rights at both state and national levels.
• Partnerships and Funding: OVWA partners with law enforcement agencies, state offices, and other organizations, often utilizing grants such as those from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) to enhance and expand its services.

Impact

OVWA's efforts have increased the number of crime victims served in Ohio, providing more comprehensive services and reducing barriers to victim care. The organization's influence extends beyond Ohio, as its Ohio Advocate Network for Training and Registration (OAN), established in 1994, served as a model for the National Advocate Credentialing Program (NACP) established in 2003.

Values

OVWA operates under the values of equity, empathy, integrity, leadership, empowerment, and cultural humility, ensuring a trauma-responsive approach to its work. It maintains an inclusive environment, emphasizing respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences. OVWA does not discriminate in employment or service provision based on various protected characteristics.

Structural Developments

In 2017, OVWA opened its first state office, which facilitates cooperation with state agencies and other victim advocacy coalitions. This development has enhanced OVWA's ability to keep its members informed and build partnerships to strengthen victim services across Ohio.

[1] https://ovwa.org/about-us/who-we-are/ [2] https://ovc.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh226/files/publications/infores/rural_victim_assistance/4_arc.html [3] https://prosecutor.franklincountyohio.gov/criminal-division/victim-witness-unit [4] https://ovwa.org [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/34-1371196