The Crowsnest Pass used to have it's own independent Victim Services, but in January 2013, Ranchland Victim Services Society (RVSS) took over the position and now they will be taking over the contract long term. They now have offices at the RCMP detachments of the Crowsnest Pass, Claresholm, Fort Macleod, Pincher Creek, and Piikani Nation.
Support roles
"The RCMP focus on the law enforcement part, our role is to support for the victims," explained Executive Director Christine Wagenaar. RVSS offer free confidential services to the public. "We are often the first responders for emotional support, so we also provide support to victims of tragedy. Fire, sudden death, suicide are not crimes, but we respond. We respond to anything from victims of sexual assault, or sudden death notifications. It can be emotional support like a crisis intervention, it can be be practical support like a ride to the hospital." Anybody can directly contact them even though most of their referrals are from the police. "We are not councilors, we are crisis intervention workers, so we do refer to other community organizations if people need a little more ongoing help."
"A big thing that we do is court. We help people prepare for court. We help them navigate the court system, and all the legalities of it. We do court prep, and court accompaniment. By explaining how the court system works, and who does what, it can be easier on witnesses. Court can be quite intimidating." explained Wagenaar. RVSS can also assist with finding compensation through Alberta Justice in the case of a person being a victim of crime.
Funding
RVSS is funded by Alberta Solicitor General, the Victims of Crime Fund, Family and Community Support Services, and through fundraising.
Advocacy and volunteering
RVSS is currently looking for volunteer advocates at all five community sites and also for one more board member. Board members are responsible for oversight and financial and legal accountability. They do not work with victims of crime. Volunteer advocates are the people that provide the front line services to the victims. Training is provided through Alberta Justice. "We ask that people volunteer in the community where they live."
Ranchland Victim Services Society has locations at the RCMP Detachments of:
Crowsnest Pass, Claresholm, Fort Macleod, Pincher Creek, and Piikani Nation
403-562-7098
1-877-627-6040
Like ripples in a pool, tragedy does not just impact those directly affected, but those that interact with them.
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