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As we step into April, a month dedicated to awareness, advocacy, and action, I want to take a moment to recognize the significance of this time for crime victims and survivors. April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, and National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 6-12 )— each a powerful reminder of the work we do at NOVA to support survivors, prevent violence through education, and promote justice.
In this issue, you’ll find details about our April Action events, where we invite you to stand with us in raising awareness and strengthening support for those impacted by crime. You’ll also learn more about the Victims’ Bill of Rights, a cornerstone in ensuring survivors have a voice in the justice system.
At the same time, we continue to closely monitor potential changes to federal funding that could impact victim services nationwide. As I shared in my recent memorandum, we remain vigilant and committed to advocating for the resources survivors need and deserve. If you haven’t yet read the memo, I encourage you to do so.
Thank you for being a part of this mission. Your support — whether through participation, advocacy, or giving — ensures that NOVA remains a beacon of hope for victims and their families.
*April is a busy month here at NOVA, and as a result, you may notice an increase in the number of emails you receive from us this month. Please bear with us and understand that our appearances in your inbox will finally dwindle down once the month is over. In the meantime, we are excited to share all of our upcoming events with you!
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| April: A Month of Action at NOVA | | |
At NOVA, we recognize the critical importance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, and National Crime Victims' Rights Week, all observed in April. These observances are a key part of our ongoing commitment to supporting those affected by sexual assault, child abuse, and crime. They provide us with an opportunity to raise awareness, educate our community, and advocate for the rights and needs of victims.
In April, and all year long, we work to empower victims and survivors, increase public understanding, and highlight the importance of preventing violence in all its forms. By engaging with our community and offering vital resources, we continue to emphasize that victims and survivors are not alone, and help is available. These observances serve as a reminder of the power of collective action in supporting victims and creating a safer, more compassionate world for everyone. At NOVA, we remain dedicated to providing vital services for victims and survivors of crime in Bucks County.
We invite all in the community to join us for our April programming. To learn more about these upcoming events and RSVP, please click here.
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A History of NOVA’s Candlelight Tribute for Victims of Crime
More than 20 years ago, NOVA’s Candlelight Tribute for Victims of Crime began as an ecumenical service, created to provide a space of healing, remembrance, and community for those impacted by crime. Over time, it evolved into the powerful candlelight tribute it is today—an annual event that honors victims and survivors, raises awareness, and offers support.
Since its beginning, hundreds of people have attended the tribute, including survivors, families, friends, partners, and community members. Each year, the event features moving remarks from client speakers who have been personally affected by crime and have utilized NOVA’s services on their journey of healing. The program also includes music, moments of reflection, and the symbolic lighting of candles to remember and honor those impacted by violence and trauma.
The tribute is held at the Victims Commemorative Arbor in Core Creek Park. The arbor was established in 1998 by families of homicide victims to create a peaceful place for remembrance, healing, and increased awareness of the devastating impact of violence. Located on a 5-acre site generously provided by the Bucks County Commissioners, the Arbor began with a single tree. Over the years, it has grown to include 29 additional trees, seven benches, and memorials commemorating homicide victims, 9/11 victims, and fallen law enforcement officers.
This meaningful gathering is open to all, and we hope you will join us for this year’s event on Tuesday, April 22nd at 6 p.m. Whether you are a survivor, a loved one, or an ally, your presence helps create a strong, compassionate community of remembrance and support.
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The Victims' Bill of Rights
The Victims' Bill of Rights is a powerful set of protections designed to ensure that crime victims are treated with dignity and respect throughout the criminal justice process. These rights give victims the opportunity to be informed about key developments in their case, the ability to attend court hearings, and the chance to speak out through victim impact statements. It also guarantees protection from harassment or retaliation, along with access to compensation for crime-related expenses. The goal is to ensure that victims have a voice, are treated fairly, and are supported during what can often be a difficult and emotional time.
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Pilates Classes for a Cause
April 1, April 12, April 17, April 30
In collaboration with Flip Dog Pilates, 50% of the proceeds from four class sessions will support NOVA! Attend 4/1 at 7:15 am, 4/12 at 9 am, 4/17 at 5:15 am, or 4/30 at 10 am, and be part of the impact. Learn more and secure your spot here!
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NOVA Book Club
April 7, 2025
NOVA’s Book Club pick for April is Somebody's Daughter: A Memoir by Ashley C. Ford. Read along and join us on Monday, 4/7 at 6PM at NOVA's Jamison Office for an in-person discussion unpacking themes of trauma and abuse. Register here.
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A Discussion on Sextortion
April 9, 2025
Join NOVA Training Institute for a training and discussion on Sexting & Sextortion: Talking with Your Teens about the Dangers of Online Exploitation. Learn about the risks of sexting, sextortion tactics, and how to have open conversations with teens about online safety. Gain insights on recognizing warning signs, protecting young people from digital threats, and empowering them to navigate the online world safely. Register here.
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Denim Day
April 30, 2025
Wear your favorite denim to show your support for survivors of sexual assault and eliminate victim blaming. Denim Day takes place every year on the last Wednesday in April in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Post a photo of yourself wearing denim on social media and tag NOVA to show your support for victims of sexual assault!
If your workplace would like to get involved and show support for survivors of sexual assault on Denim Day, please reach out to Sara Lipski, Marketing & Community Engagement Coordinator, at sara.lipski@novabucks.org.
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Candlelight Tribute
April 22, 2025
NOVA invites the community to join us on Tuesday, April 22nd, in honoring victims of crime, their families and friends, and those who serve them. This tribute of reflection, music, and victim/survivor experiences brings all in our community together for healing and awareness. Also featured is an exhibit of victim and survivor artwork.
No RSVP is needed to attend this event. For more details, please click here.
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Funny Fundraiser
May 9th, 2025
Join us for a Funny Fundraiser at Poco's Comedy Cabaret for a night of laughs and giving back! Come see Emmy-winning ventriloquist, musician, and comedian Taylor Mason live for a night of hilarious, clean comedy. Get your tickets here.
Turn it into dinner and a show! Dine at Poco's before the show and 20% of your bill will be donated to NOVA as well.
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Online Bidding for SuperNova's Silent Auction is Open!
With a wide range of silent auction items, there’s something for everyone to win, all while supporting NOVA’s mission and survivors in our community. Don’t miss your chance to win incredible items while making a real impact.
Whether you are planning to be in attendance at SuperNova or would prefer to bid from the comfort of your own home, you can start bidding today! Bidding closes Thursday, April 3rd at 7:20 PM. Click here to view the silent auction items.
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NOVA Thrift Shop Closures
NOVA Thrift Shop will be closed Tuesday, April 1st due to scheduled maintenance.
NOVA Thrift Shop will be closed Sunday, April 20th for the Easter holiday.
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Intern at NOVA!
Calling all future counselors! Are you a master’s student in counseling looking for a hands-on, trauma-focused internship? NOVA offers a three-semester counseling internship designed to provide real-world experience supporting victims of crime.
Program Details:
- Runs from summer to spring (1 practicum + 2 internship semesters)
- 20 hours per week commitment, including two evening shifts (4-8 PM)
- Manage a 12-15 client caseload
- Receive extensive trauma treatment training through weekly intern meetings
Interns gain invaluable experience working with individuals affected by sexual assault, physical assault, and other violent crimes, making a direct impact in their healing journey.
Interested? Learn more here. To apply or ask questions, email Kevin@novabucks.org today!
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Join NOVA's Upcoming Sexual Assault Counselor (SAC) Training!
Interested in becoming a NOVA volunteer for our 24/7 Phone Helpline, Text/Chat Helpline, or supporting sexual assault and other victims of serious crimes during emergency room visits or police interviews?
SAC Training consists of individual sessions on specific topics conducted by NOVA staff members who are experts in these areas. The training is free of charge and will be presented by NOVA professionals at our Jamison office. Volunteers will attend sessions to learn how to best respond to Helpline calls and provide victim/survivor-centered and trauma-informed support during emergency room visits or police interviews.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years-old, have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (needed for emergency room visits or police interviews), meet all required clearances (child abuse, criminal record check, and FBI fingerprinting), complete a 45-hour training program, and, upon acceptance into the program, sign a confidentiality agreement.
Upcoming SAC Training will be held in late Spring and will consist primarily of evening sessions.
If you are interested in completing SAC Training and becoming a NOVA Volunteer, please contact Julie Dugery, Coordinator of Volunteers and Community Outreach, NOVA, at 215-343-6543, ext. 6604, or by email at JulieD@novabucks.org.
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April Donation Challenge - NOVA Thrift Shop
We have a challenge for you! Each day in April, in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, remove one item from your closet or home that you no longer wear or use and put it in the provided trash bag. At the end of the month, donate your bag to NOVA Thrift Shop and receive a coupon for 15% off your next purchase!
All proceeds from NOVA Thrift Shop support NOVA's programs and services to support victims and survivors of sexual assault and provide prevention education programs to the Bucks County Community. Please join us as we work to support survivors in Bucks County.
Trash bag tags are available to pick up at NOVA Thrift Shop, as well as available for pick-up at NOVA's Jamison office (located at 2370 York Road, Suite B1, Jamison, PA 18929). If you are a business or organization that would like to receive trash bag tags in bulk, please get in touch with NOVA at novainfo@novabucks.org.
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Try the NOVA RX Savings Card
NOVA has partnered with WellSync to provide essential medications at discounted rates, all while benefiting NOVA. Every time you use your card, NOVA receives a $2 donation at no cost to you. Make a difference with each medication purchase!
Click the image to the right to access and download your printable card.
Print this page and cut out the RX Savings Card along the dotted line. Take your card to any of the 35,000 participating pharmacies. Present your card with your valid prescription and the pharmacies will apply the discount.
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Parx Casino Recognized as Galaxy Sponsor for SuperNova Gala
We are proud to announce Parx Casino as this year’s Galaxy Sponsor for our SuperNova Gala on April 3rd.
For nearly two decades, Parx Casino has been a dedicated partner of NOVA, supporting our mission to assist victims of crime in Bucks County and work toward a safer community through advocacy, education, and prevention efforts. This year, Parx Casino has reinforced their commitment by joining us as the exclusive SuperNova Galaxy Partner.
Ron Davis, Chief Diversity Officer at Parx Casino, shared "Parx has been a strong supporter of NOVA for a number of years. NOVA is in continuous support of people and families going through trauma and have built a foundation of care over the years. We are proud to be a partner with NOVA.”
All proceeds from the SuperNova Gala will directly support NOVA’s comprehensive programs and services.
| | NOVA Executive Director Penny Ettinger and Prevention Educator Lucia Adams presented at the 100+ Women Who Care quarterly meeting, sharing NOVA’s mission and the impact of our work in the community. We are grateful to be selected as one of the recipients of their generous first-quarter donation for 2025. | | NOVA was honored to support and attend Girls Empowered's 'Celebrating a Decade of Girls Empowerment' Gala. The evening was filled with inspiration, empowerment, and a heartfelt celebration of 10 years of impactful work uplifting girls and young women. | | NOVA is incredibly grateful to The Fuge and Inspire Federal Credit Union for choosing to support NOVA's mission through the 2025 Bucks Beer Bash! Their generosity helps ensure we can continue providing vital services to victims of crime—especially as the need for support grows. Thank you to everyone who attended and visited the NOVA table! | | NOVA Victim Advocate, Alyssa Kuryluk, had the opportunity to speak at Archbishop Ryan High School’s Career Day, sharing insights on NOVA’s services, what it means to be an advocate, and what a career in advocacy can look like. Career Day connects students with alumni and community members to explore different career paths. | |
"NOVA stood by our sides throughout what is, without a doubt, the most difficult and unimaginable time in our lives."
- NOVA Client
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NOVA gala "SuperNova" slated for The Fuge | NOVA, Bucks County's comprehensive crime victim services agency, will host SuperNova, an out-of-this-world gala, at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at The Fuge, 780 Falcon Circle, Warminster. | | | | |
National Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 20–26, and we’re celebrating the incredible volunteers who make NOVA’s mission possible! Whether they’re assisting at the NOVA Thrift Shop, answering critical Helpline calls in the middle of the night, spreading the word about NOVA at community fairs, or providing essential support to victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes in Bucks County, our volunteers are the heart of what we do.
We are endlessly grateful for their dedication and compassion. NOVA simply couldn’t do it without them! Join us in honoring the many volunteers who make a difference every day.
Thank you for your dedication to serving victims of crime!
| | Whether you donate an item from NOVA's wish list, funds, or your time, know you are making a difference. | |
Elevate Your Impact In Style
NOVA has merch! If you want to represent your favorite non-profit in wearable form, we have you covered with a variety options. Whether you're looking for a classic tee, a sweatshirt, or a hat, items are available in multiple colors and designs. Browse the collection here.
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