Advancing Victim Advocacy Since 1975
We Promote Dignity & Compassion
Our mission is to champion dignity and compassion for those harmed by crime and crisis.
"Assistance" means we are here to help; "Advocacy" means we are here to lead.
Founded in 1975, NOVA is the oldest national victim assistance organization of its type in the United States and is a recognized leader in victim advocacy, education, and credentialing.
We support aspiring advocates, victim assistance professionals, crisis responders, civilian and government advocacy groups, and allied professionals working with victims of crime and crisis. Our work extends to political advocacy to support public policy promoting victims’ rights.
Our longstanding commitment to compassionate, evidence-based victim advocacy guides our work. As we have grown, so have our efforts to advance the field of victim assistance and crisis response.
In 2024, NOVA changed it’s name from the National Organization for Victim Assistance to the National Organization for Victim Advocacy. While holding on to our history, this change embodies the organization we have become to support the future leaders of the victim advocacy movement.
OUR WORK
Train
We provide skill-based and survivor-centered training to victim advocates and crisis responders.
Credential
We ensure the highest standards, ethical practice and professional competencies are met and maintained by those working directly with crime victims through credentialing programs.
Empower
We empower survivors, advocates, crisis responders and policy makers with tools and resources to create a healthy and productive advocacy field.
Advocate
We advocate for victims of crime by advancing the field of survivor services, promoting victims’ rights and policy, supporting communities after crisis.
OUR HISTORY
NOVA has always been a proud advocate for change and innovation in victim services. Learn about NOVA’s history by reading our timeline of key milestones and accomplishments over the past 50 years.
PILLARS OF ADVOCACY
The mission of the advocacy profession is to empower survivors of crime through ethical practice and the promotion of safety, healing, justice and victims’ rights. Like all professions rooted in service and community, there are core values which guide and unite the practicing professionals drawn to this work. In collaboration with our community of advocates, NOVA established 6 core values that root our profession and guide our work with intention.
Knowledge
We place value in our own education, development and trauma-informed training to meet the needs of those we serve. Advocates recognize the importance of continuous investment in their own growth.
Compassion
We put care and passion into our work through empathy and concern for survivors, and for ourselves through effective and sustainable wellness practice.
Integrity
We uphold ourselves to high standards and professional moral principles through the knowledge and execution of ethical practices in the field, including confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Empowerment
As a guiding principle, we lift and reinforce the voices of those we serve.
Collaboration
We work with an appreciation and admiration for this field, and a regard for the individual cultures, rights and perspectives of all.
Respect
We make a conscious and innovative effort to work with victims/survivors, fellow advocates, and the greater community to advance the field of advocacy and elevate its impact.
Join our Community! Explore the Benefits of NOVA Membership
Join the National Organization for Victim Advocacy and become part of an inspiring community committed to advancing the field of victim services. Access member-only benefits, monthly CEU training, career development tools, networking opportunities, and more!
Support Our Critical Work in Victim Advocacy
Support NOVA’s mission to champion dignity and respect for those harmed by crime and crisis. Your donations and support for our critical work help us to ensure victims of crime and crisis are well-supported by trained, trauma-informed professionals.
Meet NOVA’s Dynamic Team of Advocacy Professionals
Our team is a diverse, dynamic group of professionals committed to victim advocacy. We work together to provide victim advocates and crisis responders with critical, relevant, and supportive resources and training so victims of crime and crisis are well-supported.
Meet NOVA’s Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors, led by the Executive Board, is comprised of up to 15 elected members committed to its mission. NOVA’s Advisory Board offers additional expertise to the Board of Directors. Our board members are passionate about our critical work and come from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Explore Internships Opportunities & Careers at NOVA
At NOVA, we work daily to champion dignity and respect for those harmed by crime and crisis. We provide professional development, credentialing, and high-quality, trauma-informed training across the vast field of survivor services. Join us!
Shop Merch & Rep NOVA
Visit our NOVA Store to shop NOVA merchandise! Rep our organization with a shirt or mug and help us promote this amazing field of victim advocacy.
View Our Impact & Financial Reports
View NOVA’s annual financial statements (IRS Form 190) and NOVA’s Annual Report to learn more about our yearly financial activities. Review how we use and allocate funds to support our mission and to advance our work in victim advocacy and crisis response.
Get the Latest Updates from NOVA
Read the latest announcements, news stories, press releases and statements from NOVA. View updates about our current and past board members, team members, and partners. Explore relevant news stories and important information.
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