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Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)

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October 9, 2024

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)

On October 15, we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), a landmark piece of legislation that has had a profound impact on countless lives since its enactment in 1984. For four decades, VOCA has provided essential funding and support to organizations and services that aid victims of crime, including child abuse and neglect, domestic violence, and human trafficking. Its influence extends across the United States, empowering victims to seek justice, safety, and healing.

In the years since its inception, VOCA has evolved and grown to meet the needs of communities, supporting a wide range of services such as crisis intervention, counseling, legal assistance, and emergency housing. Its focus on victim-centered approaches has enabled organizations to build critical infrastructure and provide direct aid where it’s most needed.

Court Appointed Special Advocate and Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) programs across the country are among the many organizations that benefit from VOCA funding. Each year, over $100 million in VOCA funds are awarded to a total of over 500 CASA/GAL state organizations and local programs, supporting their efforts to advocate for children in the court system who have experienced abuse or neglect. This funding enables CASA/GAL programs to recruit, train, and support volunteers who serve as the voices for children who have experienced trauma and need a dedicated advocate on their side.

VOCA’s contribution is pivotal in sustaining the work of CASA/GAL programs, helping to ensure that children in foster care receive the advocacy they need to navigate complex legal and social systems. The impact of this funding is felt by thousands of children every year, as it bolsters the capacity of CASA/GAL state organizations and local programs to provide individualized attention and support to each child they serve.

As we celebrate 40 years of VOCA, we reflect on its remarkable contributions and the lives it has changed. This milestone is not just a moment to look back at the successes of the past, but also to consider how we can continue to improve and strengthen services for victims of crime.

The National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA), the oldest national victim assistance organization of its type in the United States and a recognized leader in victim advocacy, education, and credentialing, will host a VOCA 40th Anniversary Virtual Commemoration Event on October 15 at 1:00 ET to celebrate the day. We invite you to register and tune in with us!

As we honor VOCA’s legacy, we also reaffirm our dedication to the children and families who depend on these essential services. Here’s to 40 years of progress—and many more to come.

Check out the Department of Justice Office of Violent Crimes’ VOCA 40th Commemoration page.