Bringing Behrend’s attention to organizations beyond the plethora that we are lucky enough to have on campus. There are a vast number of groups in the area that are always both serving the needs of the community and accepting volunteers. Whether this sparks your interest for the assets you need or those you are able to provide, never forget to look further than what is readily available!

 

For the last week of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we will take a look at:

 

Organization: Crime Victim Center of Erie County

 

Mission: In operation for 45 years, the Crime Victim Center began as an ear for victims and has since grown to include much more. The center operates with the goal of reducing crime and the impact of crime, including sexual violence, through counseling, prevention education, and advocacy.

 

Services: To accomplish this, CVC provides a 24-hour hotline, individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, prevention education, accompaniment, victim compensation assistance, mandated reporter training, a large variety of education and outreach information, and equine therapy for trauma and sexual abuse survivors.

 

Involvement opportunities: The center is always accepting volunteers who are passionate about the issues addressed by the organization. Specifically, individuals are able to perform community speaking about the CVC, office support, site maintenance, special events, or target human trafficking. If you have other interests, feel free to reach out and ask what your role could be. There are limited internship opportunities available through CVC. Applications can be found on the website.

 

Location: 125 West 18 St., Erie, PA 16501

Satellite offices can be found in Girard, Union City, Edinboro, Corry, and North East as well.

 

Contact information: HOTLINE: (814) 455 9414 OR 1 (800) 352 7273, for general inquiries call at the same numbers as are listed under the hotline or email admin@cvcerie.org. Find more information on their website at www.cvcerie.org.

 

The Office of Civic and Community Engagement is also teeming with information regarding other organizations in the area and would be more than happy to discuss any questions you may have or help facilitate connections. Feel free to reach out to the office, located in the Smith Chapel, at 814-898-6609 or by email at psbservice@psu.edu.