Patricia McGeshick

For more than 18 years, Patricia McGeshick has dedicated herself to providing and improving services for victims of sexual and domestic abuse and other crimes on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation and in the surrounding communities. McGeshick came to work for the Fort Peck Tribes under a Sexual Abuse Victim's Treatment contract from the Bureau of Indian Affairs that was awarded as a result of the unfortunate need for this service in the area. 

Since her tenure began in 1986, the scope of services for victims of sexual, domestic violence, and other crimes increased significantly, and a model victims' advocacy program was developed. A major accomplishment achieved under McGeshick's leadership was the establishment and operation of a community-based, culturally appropriate Family Resource Center. 

Prior to 2003, the victim assistance programs operated out of a suite located in the Tribal Court building. This location was not suitable for the provision of victim services because of its proximity to the court with its high traffic volume. McGeshick leveraged resources of the Fort Peck Tribes and Bureau of Indian Affairs to purchase a building stationed in a more appropriate location and renovated it for use as the Fort Peck Tribes' Resource Center. 

The Resource Center programs reflect McGeshick's willingness to coordinate and collaborate with other community programs and jurisdictions. This model project can be replicated in Indian Country by individuals who share McGeshick's spirit of dedication and energy. Her continued advocacy for victims has been a catalyst for more positive attitudes about the benefit of victim services within the community and tribal government. 

McGeshick was nominated by Fort Peck Tribes Chairman Ray Eder.