Crime Survivors Inc.

THE MISSION OF CRIME SURVIVORS IS TO PROVIDE HOPE & HEALING TO VICTIMS & SURVIVORS OF CRIME THROUGH ADVOCACY & THE SUPPORT OF RESOURCES, INFORMATION, & EMPOWERMENT FROM THE CRITICAL TIME AFTER A CRIME OCCURS THROUGH THE CHALLENGES & SUCCESSES OF SURVIVING & THRIVING.

For victims of crime to recover from their experience mentally, physically, emotionally, and financi

Goal One: Recruit and engage volunteers with expertise to assist the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with responsibility for coordination and management of administrative and programmatic components.

Goal Two: Explore ways to partner with other cities’ law enforcement and other resources to extend CSRC’s reach and attach new resources for the agency.

Goal Three: Seek opportunities to collaborate with allied service providers to increase breadth and depth of services.

Leadership development is important at CSRC. In the last 12 to 18 months, we have focused on leadership development by having an outside strategic problem-solving skills and planning session with the CEO/Founder, Patricia Wenskunas, and the Board of Directors. Additionally, CSRC has a consultant/special advisor who is working with us to develop an extensive and growing leadership plan, which includes coaching, mentoring, peer-to-peer support, collaboration, professional development, sustainability, budgeting and marketing, and self-care. At CSRC, these areas are a priority for sustainability and growth for staff and Board of Director, which a focus on leadership and overall organizational success.

The need for programs and services have grown tremendously during COVID-19, and CSRC has had to alter its outreach, programs, services, healing events, classes and trainings. However, we have been able to do the majority of these programs virtually, and also provided additional necessities above and beyond our prior capacity. There have been more victims in need of support, resources, daily necessities, and a place for mental health support, guidance and to know they are not alone, and CSRC continues to provide hope and healing with a supportive team. We were able to provide additional items throughout Survivors Hope Fund/Pandemic Direct Program Support, which includes items such as food/groceries; utilities, phone, rent, and deposits; hygiene/necessities; diapers, wipes, power, and lotion; gas/transportation, and relocation services. We have also been able to offer bed, bedding, pillows; relocation clothing, hotel vouchers, Eastern healing food baskets; self-defense & safety classes; case management and wrap around services, online support groups; therapy referrals and sessions; peer-to-peer support groups, service provider roundtables; education, training, and outreach materials; computers, iPads, and school supplies. CSRC quickly pivoted to fill the need of victims, crime survivors, and the community. We looked to our donors and supporters more than ever before and we witnessed a united front to give, guide, and direct. We implemented a new way to work during a crisis for sustainability and growth! The key learning is that we have always known that partnerships and community are vital for healing and survival and when we come together, we are better and stronger helping and supporting one person, one family, and one community at a time.