Get Involved

Making a positive impact on your community and helping those affected by crime starts with getting involved. Whether through advocating for legislative change, volunteering your time, or supporting organizations that work to prevent crime, there are many ways you can contribute. Below are some actionable steps you can take to support victims and help prevent future crimes.

1. Advocate for Legislative Change

One of the most powerful ways to make a difference is by supporting or advocating for legislation that protects victims, enhances penalties for offenders, and addresses the root causes of crime. Here’s how you can get involved:

Support Key Legislation

• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Advocate for the reauthorization and full funding of VAWA, which provides critical resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
• Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act: Support legislation aimed at protecting older adults from abuse and exploitation, including mandatory reporting and tougher penalties for offenders.
• The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act: This law enhances law enforcement’s ability to target human traffickers and provides better support for victims. You can support amendments or new bills that strengthen this legislation.

Contact Your Representatives

• Find Your Representatives: Visit House.gov and Senate.gov to find contact information for your elected officials.
• Write or Call: Send a letter or make a phone call to your representatives to express your support for specific crime prevention and victim protection bills.
• Attend Town Halls: Participate in local town hall meetings to voice your concerns and support for legislation aimed at crime prevention and victim protection.

Join Advocacy Groups

• Human Rights Watch: hrw.org – Engage with global efforts to prevent crime and human rights violations by supporting policy advocacy and educational campaigns.
• Everytown for Gun Safety: everytown.org – Advocate for sensible gun laws to reduce gun violence and protect communities from crime.
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV): ncadv.org – Support efforts to pass laws and policies that protect victims of domestic violence and hold offenders accountable.

2. Volunteer Your Time

Volunteering with organizations that support victims and work to prevent crime is a direct way to make a difference. Here are some options:

Victim Support Organizations

• Local Domestic Violence Shelters: Volunteer at shelters providing safe spaces for victims of domestic violence. Roles may include providing emotional support, assisting with daily operations, or helping with fundraising events.
• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): casaforchildren.org – Become a CASA volunteer to advocate for the best interests of children who have been abused or neglected within the court system.
• Crisis Hotlines: Volunteer for hotlines such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline or RAINN’s Sexual Assault Hotline to offer support and resources to victims in need.

Crime Prevention Initiatives

• Neighborhood Watch Programs: Join or start a Neighborhood Watch group to help monitor and report suspicious activities, working directly with local law enforcement to prevent crime in your community.
• Community Outreach Programs: Participate in community outreach programs aimed at educating the public about crime prevention, safety strategies, and resources available to victims.

Youth Mentorship Programs

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of America: bbbs.org – Volunteer as a mentor to help guide at-risk youth and provide them with positive role models, reducing their chances of becoming involved in crime.
• Boys & Girls Clubs of America: bgca.org – Help youth in underserved communities develop skills, build self-esteem, and stay away from crime through after-school programs and activities.

3. Support Victim Advocacy and Crime Prevention Organizations

Financial support can greatly enhance the work of organizations dedicated to helping victims and preventing crime. Consider donating to or fundraising for these groups:

National Organizations

• National Center for Victims of Crime: victimsofcrime.org – Supports victims through advocacy, training, and resource provision.
• Polaris Project: polarisproject.org – Focuses on ending human trafficking and supporting survivors through advocacy, services, and the operation of the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): madd.org – Supports victims of drunk driving and advocates for stricter laws and better enforcement to prevent future tragedies.

Local Organizations

• Search for Local Nonprofits: Use platforms like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to find and support local organizations in your area that focus on victim assistance and crime prevention.
• Fundraise: Host or participate in fundraising events like charity walks, auctions, or online crowdfunding campaigns to support these organizations.

4. Raise Awareness and Educate Others

Creating awareness about crime prevention and victim support is crucial in mobilizing community action. Here are some ways you can help:

Social Media Advocacy

• Share Resources: Use your social media platforms to share information about crime prevention, victim support resources, and ongoing legislative efforts.
• Campaigns and Hashtags: Participate in awareness campaigns such as #MeToo, #EndGunViolence, or #StopHumanTrafficking to spread the word and educate others.

Host Educational Events

• Workshops and Seminars: Organize or attend workshops on crime prevention topics such as self-defense, cyber safety, or domestic violence awareness.
• Community Forums: Host forums where experts, law enforcement, and community members can discuss crime trends, safety tips, and available resources.

Write and Speak Out

• Blog and Articles: Contribute to or start a blog focused on crime prevention, victim advocacy, or related topics to inform and engage your audience.
• Public Speaking: Volunteer to speak at schools, community centers, or local events to educate others about crime prevention strategies and the importance of supporting victims.

5. Participate in Crime Prevention Programs

Active participation in crime prevention programs can help reduce crime in your community:

National Night Out

• Website: natw.org
• Overview: National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to make neighborhoods safer. Participate by organizing or attending events in your area.

Crime Stoppers

• Website: crimestoppersusa.org
• Overview: Crime Stoppers programs allow citizens to report information about crimes anonymously, leading to safer communities. You can contribute by providing tips, volunteering, or supporting their efforts financially.

Gun Buyback Programs

• Overview: Participate in or support local gun buyback programs aimed at reducing the number of firearms in circulation and preventing gun-related crimes. Check with your local law enforcement for upcoming events.