Victim Witness Services: Tracing the Humble Beginnings
In 1984, a pivotal initiative named Impact emerged in Flagstaff, marking the beginning of a dedicated effort to address family violence within the community. Spearheaded by Joni Adams, a dedicated counselor at Killip School and the chairperson of Impact, the organization set out with a clear mission: to establish a crisis intervention field team dedicated to supporting victims of crimes and witnesses.
Under Joni Adams’ leadership, Impact made significant strides in its early days. A dedicated group of 15 individuals volunteered to be on call 24 hours a day, providing essential assistance to victims and supporting law enforcement agencies in the delicate task of notifying relatives about tragic incidents.
Impact Grows
A crucial milestone in Impact’s journey was a pivotal training seminar conducted by the Tucson Victim Witness Program. This seminar, which garnered substantial interest, saw approximately 25 participants, 15 of whom went on to become the core members of the Impact field team. The ambitious long-term goal was to expand this team to 50 members by July 1st, 1984, reflecting the community’s dedication to this vital cause.
To ensure that volunteers were well-prepared, three additional training seminars were organized that year. These sessions covered essential skills such as victim assistance techniques, diffusion strategies, and counseling skills, adopting a comprehensive approach to victim support.
Field Team
By the end of June 1985, Joni Adams projected that the Impact field team would grow to 30 trained members, each equipped with a thorough understanding of victim and witness assistance services. The team operated in pairs, often combining experienced volunteers to maximize their effectiveness.
Inspired by the Tucson Victim Witness Program, Impact became a beacon of hope and support for the Flagstaff community. Its mission resonated deeply with the needs of both victims and law enforcement agencies, highlighting a commitment to collaboration and ongoing training.
Victim Witness Services Today
Today, Victim Witness Services has expanded significantly from its modest beginnings. What started as a small, dedicated team in Flagstaff has grown into a comprehensive network covering all of Northern Arizona, including eight offices across the region and the Navajo Nation. The organization’s evolution from Impact to a regional leader in victim support reflects its enduring commitment to providing critical assistance and fostering a supportive community for all.
“With concern like yours, victims have hope and our society sends them a message of support in the healing process.”
Joni Adams, Victim Witness Services FounderBecome a Volunteer: Empower Change with Victim Witness Services
Join our dedicated team of volunteers and become a beacon of hope in our community. Your time and compassion make a real difference in the lives of victims and survivors. Whether offering crisis response support or spreading awareness through outreach efforts, you can help shape a brighter future for those in need. Explore our volunteer opportunities and make your mark today.