First responders to survivors of violent crime can have a major impact on the individuals they want to serve. Unfortunately, that impact is not always positive.

Victim Outreach Intervention Center, a comprehensive victim service agency, strives to have a positive impact on survivors of violent crime by providing them with three basic needs: Non-judgmental emotional support, factual information, and access to community resources.

The people who are first involved with a victim following a traumatic incident contribute to that person's perception of the event for years to come.

To be treated with kindness and patience is helpful to a victim; it reinforces the message that the violence is indeed not her or his fault.

VOICe also works with community agencies to educate personnel on how to effectively serve the person in need without causing "re-victimization".

A 24-hour-hotline, 800-400-8551, is one way people can access VOICe's free and confidential services. The hotline is also used by law enforcement and hospital emergency room personnel to request a VOICe advocate.

Medical advocates from VOICe will respond to Butler Memorial Hospital or UPMC Cranberry anytime, day or night. People who have suffered physical injuries from domestic violence, sexual assault or any other violent crime will be provided advocacy and options in regard to their victimization.

If the person has been injured in a domestic violence incident, he or she will be encouraged to have photographs taken of the injuries. Female victims are given the option of entering VOICe's Domestic Violence Shelter for women and children fleeing the violence. Male victims will be provided other options for safe housing.

Sexual assault survivors will be told about a forensic rape exam performed to provide forensic evidence in the event the crime goes to court.

VOICe advocates are there to provide support and guidance for the individuals who require medical attention.

Local law enforcement agencies can request a VOICe advocate for crime victims who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with police procedures.

Officers can request accompaniment for crime victims in all aspects of police proceedings.

Even though VOICe's staff can be first responders, our commitment to the survivors of violent crime does not end there. After the initial incident, we can provide ongoing counseling, advocacy and support.

For information on Victim Outreach Intervention Center's free and confidential services to victims of violent crime and abuse in Butler County, call 724-283-8700 or 724-776-5910.