Community organizations raise awareness for Victim and Survivors of Crime

Whether it be a hand or a paw, support is there.

From May 26 to June 1, awareness is raised during Victims and Survivors of Crime Week. This year, the theme for the campaign is The Power of Collaboration: Many Voices Speak Many Words.

Three locally based victim service providers have banded together in Prince George. The Elizabeth Fry Society, Prince George Native Friendship Centre, as well as the RCMP Victim Service Unit have all joined forces to discuss the work they do in unison to provide support to victims of crime and trauma.

At an event held at the South Fort George Family Resource Centre, a demonstration was showcased, using meaningful words in a wide array of languages.

“It’s recognizing that cross-sectoral diversity,” Bally Bassi told MyPGNow. “The words that were pronounced in the various languages were inspirational empowerment words that victims and survivors talk about, what they want: love, trust, hope, empowerment.”

Those words were pronounced in languages such as Russian, Italian, Spanish, and French to name a few.

While there was a verbal portion of the event, there were some furry friends also present for the event.

As part of The Power of Collaboration: Many Voices Speak Many Words, therapy dogs showcased some tricks.

The event was held as Victims and Survivors of Crime Week kicked off.#CityofPG @mypgnow #TherapyDogs #VictimsWeek pic.twitter.com/FCxcOM5vjP

— Ethan Ready (@EthanReady) May 27, 2019

“When we’re looking at language and the message of many voices speak many words — we had the dogs.” said Bassi. “Doing sign language and tricks, which also understanding and recognizing that language as well.”

Krista Levar, the owner of Caring K-9 Institute, understands the impact dogs can play in interactions.

“Therapy dogs can make a huge difference in almost any interaction that you’re having with anyone who’s feeling victimized, or perhaps experiencing trauma,” said Levar. “It takes a long time to build rapport with people. When you’re dealing with someone who’s feeling traumatized or upset, having a therapy dog present allows you to connect quickly.”

Further adding to the events lined up for the week and its awareness, Wednesday will bring a series of workshops intended for service providers for people who work in the anti-violence field. Thursday will bring a luncheon recognizing victim service workers.