NCVC Advocate Academy

NCVC's Advocate Academy: Empowering Victims to Empower Others

“I just want to make sure this never happens to someone else, and no other victim has this experience.  I want to help people because of my experience.”  In 1985, Alexander and Ala Von Auersperg founded what became the National Center for Victims of Crime on this idea, and indeed, this is one of the most repeated mantras of those who have been impacted by crime. Individuals who have been harmed are eager to assist others, but often finding their place and footing in the victim advocacy world is a challenge – laws are confusing, nonprofits are difficult to establish, and grant applications are complex and lengthy.   

NCVC’s Advocate Academy is designed specifically for individuals who have been victims of crime and seek to become advocates for themselves and others. Recognizing the significant barriers that victims face when entering the advocacy world, we aim to create a supportive environment where attendees can share their experiences, learn from experts, and build a network of like-minded individuals committed to making a difference. This unique one-day event will provide crucial knowledge and skills to help navigate the often-overwhelming landscape of victim services, advocacy, and nonprofit management.  

Given NTI’s location in Orlando, FL – this year’s inaugural academy will be specifically geared towards Florida residents. Throughout the day, participants will engage in informative sessions that cover the legislative process, vicarious trauma, nonprofit management, effective media engagement, and much more. Our goal is to empower participants with the tools they need to turn their experiences into advocacy and create meaningful change in their communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The academy will take place the day before the start of the National Training Institute on Tuesday, September 2 at the Hilton Lake Buena Vista in Orlando, Florida.

Registrations will close one month out from the conference on Monday, August 4th or when the registration hits capacity, whichever happens first.

Registrants are responsible for their own travel costs to the academy, but attendance is free. Additionally, attendees will be offered a 50% discount rate to attend the remainder of NTI if they so choose.

In order to foster a more collaborative environment, NCVC anticipates capping the attendance at 40-50 individuals to attend the academy.

Attendees can expect to experience a number of different sessions during the programming, including panel-led sessions and time set aside to network. The finalized agenda will be shared with attendees prior to the academy. Please note that due to the nature of this event, many of the topics will be geared towards Florida laws, policies, etc. 

If have any questions regarding the academy, or are running into issues submitting your registration, please reach out to nationaltraininginstitute@victimsofcrime.org.