Finding Support: UNO's Victim Advocacy Services Empowering Our Community
Victim Advocacy Services (VAS) is dedicated to supporting the UNO community through advocacy and compassionate care.
- published: 2024/11/17
- contact: Bella Lockwood-Watson - Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications
- email: unonews@unomaha.edu
At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), Victim Advocacy Services (VAS) offers a vital lifeline for students, staff, and faculty who have experienced sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating or domestic violence, and stalking. With a commitment to providing affirming, empowering, and confidential support, VAS ensures that survivors are met with a compassionate and caring approach as they navigate their options.
What Does an Advocate Do?
The role of a victim advocate is crucial in supporting those who have experienced trauma. VAS's state-certified advocates provide individualized advocacy tailored to each survivor's unique circumstances.
Whether an unwanted experience is recent or from years past, advocates are available to help survivors understand their options and connect with available resources, both on-campus and in the community.
Meena Wilwerding, a graduate assistant and certified advocate, emphasizes the importance of outreach and creating trauma-informed spaces at UNO.
"We are here to help survivors navigate their options and provide support every step of the way," said Wilwerding.
Advocates assist with a variety of needs, including:
- Providing emotional support
- Educating on resources and reporting options, including helping with Title IX and law enforcement support
- Connecting to mental health providers
- Filing protection orders
- Developing safety plans
Nicole Naatz, lead victim and survivor advocate at UNO, explained, "Our goal is to meet survivors where they are, discuss any barriers, and explore resources that can help them achieve their goals."
A Safe Space for All
One of the defining features of VAS is its commitment to confidentiality. Survivors can speak freely about their experiences, knowing that their information is protected. As advocates.
The service is available not only to those currently experiencing trauma but also to those grappling with past experiences that continue to affect their lives.
"We are here to listen and support at any point in someone's experience, they do not have to have it all figured out,”
How to Access Victim Advocacy Services
Getting in touch with VAS is straightforward. Students, faculty, and staff can reach out via phone or email, and the advocates will respond promptly to schedule a consultation.
"We also serve secondary survivors, those who are supporting a friend, family member, or colleague who has experienced trauma," said Wilwerding.
With a strong network of partnerships across campus and in the community, Victim Advocacy Services stands as a crucial resource for the UNO community. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or needs support, don't hesitate to contact VAS at 402-554-2030, by email unoadvocacy@unomaha.edu, or on their website. You are not alone, and there are caring professionals ready to help you navigate your path to healing.
About the University of Nebraska at Omaha
Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.
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