VOCA (Victims Of Crime Advocates Initiative)
The sad reality of the times is that the number of victims impacted by crime has increased, the good news is that TEAM VOCA has hit the ground running, helping victims of crime bridge the gaps and avoid the pitfalls that prevent them (victims) from getting needed services in a timely manner.
The Victims of Crime Advocates (VOCA) Initiative provides services and support for Crime Victims and their families. The VOCA Initiative delivers compassionate, individualized assistance to residents of Staten Island who have suffered the trauma of victimization.
VOCA provides comprehensive supportive and referral services and promotes recovery and resilience through Crisis Counseling, Advocacy, Emergency Shelter, Civil Legal Assistance, Relocation Assistance, Transportation, Safety Planning. VOCA will also connect ELIGIBLE victims to the NYS Office of Victim Services (OVS) for Compensation Services, such as Financial Assistance, Reimbursement, Funeral and Burial Expenses, Lost Wages and Support.
Get to Know the Team
Stephanie Shavuo
VOCA Program Service Manager
Native of Bedford Stuyvesant in central Brooklyn. Holding a degree in Americana History from Yale University. Stephanie use those skills to connect our clients to helpful community organizations.
Samson Abodunrin
Case Manager
Samson holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the College of Staten Island. He has worked as a Senior Case Manager for over 10 years before transitioning three years ago to his current role as Case Manager. Supporting victims of crime on Staten Island.
Nurookia Johnson
VOCA Program Assistant
Nurookia, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, brings both passion and purpose to her role, skillfully managing day-to-day administrative operations while ensuring every client is connected to the resources they need with compassion and urgency.
Aidan Rivera
Case Manager
Aidan is a Staten Island native with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. A former victim of gun violence, he aims to use his education and experience to help victims of all crimes seeking a positive path forward.
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Interested in joining this program?
To request joining, please fill out and submit the Intake form.
For additional information and services contact The VOCA Initiative VOCA@CentralFamilyLifeCenter.org or 718-273-8414 Ext.315.