The Advocate | June 2023

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, the anticipation of summer fills the air. We eagerly await the joyous moments this season brings – from fun-filled nights to well-deserved vacations and moments of relaxation. Amidst the excitement, it is crucial that we acknowledge the unfortunate reality of increased criminal activities during this time. At VAP, we are committed to respond to the surge in violence, working collaboratively with our community to ensure safety, support, and empowerment throughout the year.

Extensive research over the years has demonstrated a consistent correlation between warmer temperatures and a rise in crimes. While this connection is complex, several key factors contribute to this unfortunate trend:

1. Increased Outdoor Activity: As people spend more time outdoors, engaging in recreational activities and social gatherings, it inadvertently creates opportunities for criminals to exploit crowded spaces and target unsuspecting individuals.
2. Changes in Daily Routines: The transition to summer often leads to disruptions in regular schedules, with schools being out of session and altered work patterns. These shifts can create vulnerabilities, as individuals may find themselves in unfamiliar settings or deviating from their usual safety routines.
3. Heightened Discomfort and Frustration: The sweltering heat can lead to increased levels of discomfort, which in turn can contribute to feelings of frustration and irritability. These emotional states may elevate the potential for impulsive and aggressive behavior, leading to interpersonal conflicts and crimes of opportunity.

While the rise in crime during the summer months may be disheartening, it serves as an eye opening need for us to be prepared. Here are some strategies that can help us safeguard our communities during this season:

1. Community Vigilance: Encourage community members to be vigilant and proactive in observing and reporting suspicious activities. 
2. Safety Education: Promote community-wide education on summer-related safety issues. Empower individuals with knowledge and skills to prevent crime and protect themselves, their families, and their property.
3. Empowering Youth: Invest in positive engagement opportunities for young individuals during the summer months. Provide educational, recreational, and vocational programs that foster personal growth, skill development, and a sense of belonging. 

As we embark on the summer season, let us remain proactive in our efforts to safeguard our communities. Together with your unwavering support, VAP is prepared to respond promptly to the unfortunate increase in violence. We stand firm in our commitment to ensure the safety, support, and empowerment of our community this season. 

Thank you for your continued support, as it enables us to take proactive measures during this challenging time.

“I had a criminal case against someone that I was in a relationship with and they were charged with kidnapping, rape, and felonious assault.”

Watch Sarah’s full story and hear how VAP was able to walk alongside this courageous woman to create safety and obtain justice against her abuser.

Helping thousands of women like Sarah through this type of traumatic experience is only possible because of your generosity. Thank you for your support which made it possible for us to help Sarah navigate her next steps after escaping a dangerous situation.

We are extremely grateful for the partnership and monthly support of Patricia Warner. She was inspired to become a monthly partner after attending a VAP event with her niece. We are excited to share how that first meeting made a profound impact on Patricia’s life, which in return is impacting so many others. 

I first became interested in VAP because of my niece, Jennifer LaFleur (previous Board Chair). She invited me to one of the breakfast meetings at Portage Country Club. Since that time, I have remained interested and inspired by the work being done. When Jen became a Board Member and eventually Board Chair, I began supporting VAP to honor her. I still contribute monthly to the organization because I have seen its value in the community and realize the importance of helping others at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

At this stage of my life, I cannot do much volunteering, but I continue donating to this most worthy cause.

We are so thankful for the continued support of Patricia Warner and for our monthly donors who continue to support our mission to restore lives impacted by violence, crime, and tragedy. 

Victims of crime require support and assistance year-round, and your help can make a profound difference in their lives. By becoming a monthly donor to the Victim Assistance Program, with a gift of just $37 a month, you will enable us to maximize our impact. Together, we can provide 24-hour crisis intervention, advocacy, and education to thousands of victims throughout Summit County, ensuring they receive the care and support they desperately need.

Your monthly partnership will help us keep:

• Responding on-scene day or night for those who need us, right where they are, to help them get through the 24 hours immediately following a crisis.
• Walking alongside them through days, weeks, and months of court advocacy and healing.
• Providing individualized resource referrals to meet their emergency needs.  
• Filling a large gap in the community, serving ALL victims of ALL crimes for free.
• Decreasing violence in underserved areas.
• Keeping families safe.
• And more!

By joining us as a monthly donor, we will send you a special gift – The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. This enlightening book explores the profound impact of relationships on our ability to heal and offers hope for reclaiming lives affected by trauma.

Together, we can create a community where survivors find healing, strength, and a path to a brighter future. Join us today in making a lasting impact on the lives of victims of crime. 

Become a VAP Advocate

Looking for a fun way to support VAP and enjoy the thrills of golf? If so, we are excited to partner with the Kaulig Companies Championship to offer you a unique opportunity to support a great cause. 

We invite you to join us at the PGA TOUR Champions’ Kaulig Companies Championship, returning to Firestone Country Club from July 12-16. Experience world-class golf, live music, and local cuisine while making a meaningful difference in our community. 

Experience Concerts at the Course with Wanted: The Bon Jovi Tribute Band on Friday and The Vindys on Saturday, as well as local food trucks while Ernie Els, Fred Couples and Steve Stricker compete for a major championship. 

Purchase a $25 Good Any One Day Ticket (Wed-Sun) using code ASSISTANCE23 before July 7 and $20 will go to our organization. Ages 18 and under are admitted free.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of victims in our community, while enjoying golf, live music, and delicious food.

Purchase your tickets at https://www.nogcf.org/buy-tickets-fore-charity using code ASSISTANCE23.