voices of vap
Leanne Graham, Executive Director
Victim Assistance Program has an exciting start to the New Year. We are happy to announce the launch of our newly redesigned website. I invite you to explore victimassistanceprogram.org to catch up on all the latest news and services we offer. Getting in touch with advocates in the way you feel most comfortable is now just a click or call away. New to the website is a chat feature to complement our 24-7 hotline. Special thanks to VOCA for funding this initiative and helping us to increase awareness.
Ohio victims' rights are stronger than ever with the enactment of Marsy's Law, which took effect on February 5, 2018. Marsy's Law bolsters existing victims' rights in Ohio by amending Ohio's Constitution to enhance the protection and enforcement of these rights. Victims will learn about Marsy's Law from law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim advocates. Informational handouts will be provided to victims throughout the criminal justice process. To learn about the impact of Marsy's Law, visit Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center's website.
On Saturday, March 3, 2018 Victim Assistance Program will once again turn The Tangier in Akron into a night out on Bourbon Street with our annual Mardi Gras Gala. Over 400 guests will enjoy a gourmet meal, open bar, live music, and bid on live and silent auction items to reach an event fundraising goal of $115,000. Proceeds directly impact victims of crime and trauma in Summit County. Strong community support for this annual event allows us to fulfill our mission to empower our community to restore lives impacted by crisis, violence, and tragedy. We invite you to join us; visit our new website to find out additional event details, purchase tickets, learn about sponsorship information, and more!
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community corner
We are proud to announce Leppo Rents as this year's Mardi Gras Gala Presenting Sponsor! Roy and Stella Leppo founded Leppo Rents in 1945 in Akron, Ohio. A 2017 Plain Dealer Top Workplace, Leppo Rents has been providing quality service for over 70 years. An active pillar in the community, Leppo Rents donates proceeds from specially marked equipment to Breast Cancer Fund of Ohio and Autism Speaks. Chief Executive Officer, Glenn Leppo, is also a member of the board of directors of Summit Education Initiative and Greenleaf Family Center. He states, "To whom much has been given, much will be required." Glenn is passionate about helping people break the cycle of generational poverty. He fosters a relationship with our organization to help reduce victimizations within Summit County. We are thankful for Leppo Rents' support of our mission and our upcoming Mardi Gras Gala. Visit their website at leppos.com and like them on Facebook to learn more about Leppo Rents.
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helpful hints
We're here for you. 24/7.
Founded in 1972, Victim Assistance Program is the only Summit County agency that responds – 24 hours a day – 7 days a week – to the scene of the incident when requested by any emergency response agency. In addition to crime scene response, advocates provide in person services in hospitals, victims' residences, schools, and at our five office locations.- Akron Police Department, Room 935 | 8a – 4p M-F
- Akron Police Department, Detective Bureau | 4p – 8a M-F | 24/7 Weekends
- Barberton Municipal Court, 3rd Floor | 8a – 4p M-F
- Stow Municipal Court, 2nd Floor | 8a – 4p M-F
- VAP Administration Office | 8a – 4p M-F
24-Hour Hotline and Chat Who We Help
We support over 6,000 Summit County residents and/or employees victimized by crime or trauma every year. From hardship to healing, advocates stand alongside victims to help them navigate through the emotional, physical, and financial aftermath of their trauma. How We Help - 24-Hour Crisis Intervention | Support & Information Referrals
- Advocacy | Personal & Court Support
- Professional Education | Internships & Summit Victim Assistance Academy
- Community Outreach | Victim Representation | Community Meetings | Vigils
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