To support Alaska victim service organizations

The Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA) is the federal recognized state coalition for Alaska.  They provide training, technical assistance, pro bono attorneys, shared resources, as well as continued exploration of ways to reduce the administrative burden for member programs. At a meeting of the Network’s 23 members in March 2021, Member programs expressed a desire for several new services and supports from ANDVSA.  Specifically, the project will: 1) Create a position “Deputy Director” to oversee membership including support to Executive Directors, recruitment and retention of membership, new member orientation, Sexual Assault component of the coalition and T/A programming; 2) Develop an Executive Director Support Program to contract with prior or current Executive Directors or other mentors who could provide supports to Executive Directors requesting it; 3) Develop and Implement a Staff Exchange Program – Travel funds will allow staff members to visit other programs to learn; 4) Create a position – “Domestic Violence Advocacy Specialist” – will work with statewide partners to increase effectiveness of system, work with programs to provide training and technical assistance; 5) Create a new position – “Shared Services Coordinator – this position would be available to assist programs with projects, assist with grant management with programs who do not have the current capacity to administer the grants from CDVSA or other sources; 6) Fund the VELA database for all member programs for four (4) years; 7) Develop a “Communications Director” position to engage in content creation for media; creation of on-line learning platforms; updates of websites; over-sight of coalition manager; and engagement with programs to enhance their communication plans; 8) Create a position Criminal Justice Planner to engage in the on-going development and creation of training for law enforcement and other state agencies, to engage in statewide work related to the criminal justice system, reduce bias towards victims and host annual listening sessions; 9) Host a multi-disciplinary Statewide Conference and provide travel for program participants.