ASHEVILLE
– It never crosses our minds until it happens. We think we are safe
when we lock the doors of our homes, buckle our seatbelts and make ourselves
aware of our surroundings. However, crime happens to everyone, and it
does not discriminate. Crime includes homicide, elder abuse, school violence,
cyber crime, kidnapping, assault, domestic abuse, rape, and child abuse.
It is difficult to know where to turn when suddenly
one becomes a victim of a criminal act. That is why the North Carolina
Victim Assistance Network (NCVAN) is here to help crime victims and their
families find the help they need. Moreover, NCVAN believes that crime
victims need and deserve fair and compassionate services across the state.
To ensure just that, NCVAN hosts an annual training conference for victim
service providers, law enforcement, victim/witness assistants in district
attorney’s offices and other related professionals.
This year’s conference, “Bringing Honor
To Victims” will be held August 7-9 at the Renaissance Hotel in
Asheville, NC. During the opening ceremony NCVAN will commemorate the
lives of the 10 law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line
of duty in the year 2001 during a special tribute to law enforcement.
Throughout the conference there will be a focus on the newfound desire
for ever-present security that has affected all Americans since September
11.
The conference is a time for professionals that work with crime victims
on a daily basis to receive valuable training on how to respond to crime
victims in need and to learn about changes in the law that affect victims
of violent crime. The conference also provides a special opportunity for
surviving victims of crime to attend workshops specifically designed for
them, like “What To Do When The Police Leave,” facilitated
by Author, Bill Jenkins who will also be available for a book signing.
Each year NCVAN seeks to identify individuals and
agencies that go above and beyond their daily duties to assist crime victims.
This year, NCVAN will recognize District Attorney, John Carriker of New
Hanover and Pender Counties; Representative Hugh Holliman of Davidson
County; the NC Governor’s Crime Commission; Ramona Glenn, Burlington
Police Department; Lt. Sheldon Skinner, North Hampton Co. Sheriff’s
Office; Johnny Massey of Garner; and Howard Ange of Grifton. These outstanding
individuals and agencies will be awarded during NCVAN’s Annual Award’s
Luncheon hosted by U.S. Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Ms. Cheri Nolan.
NCVAN’s 16th Annual Training Conference promises
to be an enhancing event for law enforcement professionals, professionals
who assist victims of crime, violent crime victims, and concerned citizens
alike. If you would like more information on this beneficial training
conference please contact Mel Chilton at 919/831-2857 or 800/348-5068.
Please use this story in your media outlet because
crime is an issue of importance and interest for all North Carolinians.
If you think your audience would be interested in learning more about
NCVAN, please contact Mel Chilton at 919/831-2857.
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