For 25 years, the McKean County Victim’s Resource Center has
been helping men, women and children who are victims of either
sexual assault or domestic violence.
On Saturday, the program will be recognizing those 25 years of
service with an anniversary gala beginning at 6 p.m. at the
Bradford Club with dinner starting at 6:30 p.m.
The program was developed in 1980 when it became apparent to
members of the community and the YWCA of Bradford that there was a
need for women who were being abused.
Today, the eight part-time and full-time staff working in the
office admit it’s a difficult job, but add that it is rewarding.
From time to time, they hear the results of their work so they know
that they are at least helping someone advance out of an abusive
relationship.
“It takes a special kind of person to do this work,” said
program director Nancy Chestnut, who has worked in the program for
15 years. “You have to be compassionate and be able to leave it
here.”
The program, in fiscal year 2004-05, served 401 people who
needed domestic violence services and 103 people who needed sexual
assault services. That includes adults, children and significant
others. Those working in the program also know that there are more
people out there who have not come forward.
Mickey Swackhamer, who works as a legal advocate for the
program, said she has been working there for 15 years as well.
“I’m glad with my experience. I can give them options,” said
Swackhamer. “I am not a miracle worker, but we can at least try to
give women the tools they need to leave a bad situation.
“I do like what I do,” she added. “(President) Judge John M.
Cleland once said we make things easier for a lot of people, we
know how to access the system. It’s true.”
Agreeing, Chestnut added, “As advocates, you do need to know how
victims can access any system – that could be housing or Department
of Public Welfare.”
Chestnut said that the employees are seasoned providers for
victims who can help with referrals and provide support. They
provide options based on each persons needs.
“It’s an eye-opening experience,” said a caseworker named Heidi.
“It changes the way you look at things. Somehow, you end up being
an activist if you weren’t before.
Heidi’s last name will not be used for her protection.
“You get more in tune with what’s going on around you, when
before you might have walked away,” she added.
The program now offers prevention education programming in
community groups, and in the school districts at all levels of
school. They also help with training at the University of
Pittsburgh at Bradford and work with their health services
department and can provide an advocate to them if needed.
Funding through the state to create programs for domestic
violence were put to use and the program was developed. A shelter
was opened in 1980, and the program was named the Bradford Domestic
Violence Program. Chestnut explained that the shelter was a rented
space until 1996 when they were able to purchase their own house
for victims.
In 1989, the program was able to expand and started providing
some, but minimal services to victims of sexual assault. In 1984,
the Victims of Crime Act was developed and through this, the YWCA
Victims Resource Center gained funding.
In 1993, through the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, the
program received more funding – enough to begin the dual program
that exists today.
Mikele, who is an outreach coordinator, travels to different
areas of McKean County to be sure that people are aware of the
agency.
“I go out to different sites. There might be people who lack
transportation, and sometimes it’s easier to go and get the word
out,” she said.
While the agency works to get the word out about what they have
to offer, they have in mind eight different people and agencies to
thank along the way.
They include Cleland, who Chestnut said took the time to become
educated in both aspects of abuse.
“The president judge sets the tone in the criminal justice
system. He has been important in demonstrating the importance of
response,” said Chestnut.
Others they will present with awards include M & M Answering
Service Inc., who has been helping them through the hotline
service; Northwestern Legal Services of Bradford, who has helped to
provide civil and legal representation; and Port Allegany High
School Guidance Department, for its forward thinking in making sure
teen victims have ready access to counselor advocates.
The agency will also present an award to Bradford Regional
Medical Center Emergency Department/S.A.N.E Nurses, who have
trained to become examiners.
“That is quite a contribution,” added Chestnut.
The Guidance Center will receive an award for its contribution
in peer support groups and therapists for short-term counseling.
Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church, whose members have made quilts
for victims to use, will be honored; and District Judge Barbara
Boser will receive an award for helping with training of volunteers
over the years and for making access for victims easier.
Keynote speaker at the event will be Jacqueline Stutts, training
and technical assistance manager of the Pennsylvania Coalition
Against Domestic Violence.
