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As NOVA closes the chapter on its 50th anniversary, we’re filled with gratitude for the community that has sustained us through five decades of service. While we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead to the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. Rising costs and cuts to public funding have created hurdles, but our commitment to serving those in need remains unwavering. Thanks to your generous support, we continue to grow and deepen our impact in prevention and victim services.
This January, during Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we turn our focus to shining a light on this pervasive issue and protecting vulnerable individuals here in Bucks County. Together, we can offer hope, healing, and justice to those who need it most.
Your support makes our work possible. Consider making a donation today to help NOVA meet these challenges and continue building brighter futures for those we serve. Thank you for standing with us—yesterday, today, and tomorrow!
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Stan and Shelli Dunn: 25 Years of Dedication to NOVA’s Mission | |
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For 25 years, Stan and Shelli Dunn have been the heart and soul of NOVA’s volunteer team. Since becoming volunteers in 2000, they have poured their time, energy, and compassion into every corner of the organization, helping countless victims and their families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
What sets Stan and Shelli apart is their unwavering dedication. Whether answering late-night Helpline calls, accompanying victims in the emergency room, or lending a steady hand during a crisis, they have been there ready to help, no matter the time or circumstance. Their commitment extends far beyond day-to-day tasks; it’s a reflection of their deep belief in NOVA’s mission and their genuine care for the people they serve.
Over the years, Stan and Shelli have touched every aspect of NOVA’s work, and their impact is immeasurable. They’ve become a source of strength and comfort to victims, a beacon of reliability to their peers, and an enduring example of selfless service to the entire community.
As we honor their remarkable journey, we are reminded of the incredible difference two people can make. Stan and Shelli are more than volunteers—they are family, and their legacy will forever be a part of NOVA.
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January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month | |
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More than twenty years ago the “Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA)” was signed into law that showcased the United State’s commitment to decreasing human trafficking. Every year since 2010, January has been deemed National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. This month is dedicated to bring awareness of human trafficking and to help educate the public on action steps that can prevent this crime from occurring.
In 2013, Bucks Coalition Against Trafficking (BCAT) was founded as cases of human trafficking were continuing to rise in the county. Since then, BCAT has spread awareness through community education to countless individuals in the surrounding area, has advocated for legislation to support victims, and assisted with coordinated responses through survivor services, with a goal of eradicating human trafficking and sexual exploitation from our community. As we educate the community, we ask for your help, your skills and talents, because this fight is too big to tackle alone. BCAT aims to make support not only visible, but accessible. And we work to prevent individuals from needing it in the first place. Please join BCAT in several awareness opportunities throughout the month of January.
Click here to learn more about how you can help.
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Enhancing Awareness: NOVA's Human Trafficking Awareness Training Offerings
NOVA has a team of expertly trained and experienced staff who provide a variety of high-quality, practical trainings through the NOVA Training Institute. These trainings are available both virtually and in person, and many may qualify for continuing education credits.
While the NOVA Training Institute offers a wide range of subject matter trainings, we would like to spotlight those focused on human trafficking in recognition of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Human Trafficking: Risk Indicators and Vulnerable Populations
This comprehensive training aims to enhance knowledge and understanding of how sexual exploitation and human trafficking impact individuals and vulnerable populations within our communities.
CSEC 101: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children
This training helps attendees identify risk factors and indicators of the commercial sexual exploitation of children in our communities and reviews the referral process for children who may be sexually exploited.
The Intersection of Human Trafficking and Non-Fatal Strangulation
This presentation explores the dynamics and indicators of human trafficking and non-fatal strangulation, as well as the medical consequences for victims of repetitive sexual violence.
If you or someone you know is interested in any of the above trainings, please contact Jamie Pfister, NOVA Training Coordinator, at jamie.pfister@novabucks.org.
To learn more about additional trainings offered by NOVA, click here.
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Danielle DiUlio, Human Trafficking Victim Advocate
Can you give a brief description of your role and the ways in which you collaborate with NOVA?
Through my role at NOVA, I am able to assist and accompany human trafficking survivors through the entire legal process while providing support and answering legal questions. I complete all of the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) Assessments referred by Children and Youth Services. In addition, I am also able to assist in filing for crime victims compensation and am able to provide ongoing case management to connect survivors with resources.
How long have you been working with NOVA?
Since April 2024
What is your favorite part about working with NOVA?
I enjoy working alongside and within a wonderful team of people who are all dedicated to assisting victims under NOVA's mission.
How do you support NOVA's mission in your role?
Through my role I am able to directly provide comprehensive, trauma-informed care to victims and act as a direct support person for them throughout the entirety of the legal process.
What is one thing people should know about NOVA?
NOVA has so many wonderful programs to offer the county of Bucks, ranging from direct advocacy services, trauma counseling, prevention education, training opportunities and more. These services are all provided by people who care about the community we serve, and I am honored to be a part of this mission.
We appreciate your dedication to serving victims of crime!
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Wear Blue Day
January 11, 2025
National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is recognized each year on January 11th. In recognition of this important day, wear blue to raise awareness of human trafficking.
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Coffee For A Cause
January 2025
Support local coffee shops in Bucks County who help raise awareness of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Order a drink and receive a BCAT coffee sleeve! Participating locations include: Meadowlark Bakery and Cafe, Simply Delicious by Tina, Native Cafe, and Langhorne Coffee House.
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Ask the Experts Panel
January 29, 2025
Join Law Enforcement, Victim Advocates, and more to learn how you can join the fight against Human Trafficking in Bucks County. Stay tuned for more details to follow.
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Red Sand Project
January 2025
Join the movement by filling sidewalk cracks with red sand. This projects aims to draw attention to victims and survivors of human trafficking who “fall through the cracks” of our society and encourage individuals to take action.
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SuperNova: A Galactic Gala Benefiting NOVA
April 3, 2025
Before they went to the moon, they came here... Join us for a galactic gala under the historic Johnsville Centrifuge benefiting NOVA.
Mark your calendars for NOVA's 2025 Fundraising Gala: SuperNova! We're thrilled to announce this spectacular evening, happening on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at The Fuge. Get ready for an unforgettable night—tickets on sale now!
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NOVA Office Closure
The NOVA offices will be closed on Monday, January 20th due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
NOVA's 24/7 Helpline will remain open and available at 1-800-675-6900.
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NOVA is Hiring!
NOVA is currently hiring for the following position:
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RFP Clinical Counselor I and II — NOVA’s Restoring Families Program (RFP) focuses on children aged 7-14 and their caregivers in a group format. NOVA wants this individual to become certified in Problematic Sexual Behavior - Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT) while managing the administrative work, conducting weekly therapy sessions, and attending consultation meetings. Counselors will also work with children and adults who are the victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes. This position would require participating in individual and group supervision and carrying a full caseload of clients who are involved in the Restoring Families Program as well as victims of crime and abuse, including their significant others. It will also include outreach and training for professionals and schools in the community on problematic sexual behaviors.
To learn more and how to apply, please visit novabucks.org/employment.
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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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JoAnn Rakowski: Neighborhood Realtor and Proud NOVA Supporter
For JoAnn Rakowski, supporting NOVA deeply resonates with her core values. "As soon as I learned about NOVA’s mission, I knew this was the organization I was meant to support," she says. "The work NOVA does for victims of crime and sexual abuse is incredibly important. It's crucial to stand by these individuals, offering them not only the help they need but also the advocacy they deserve." Her journey with NOVA began through a long-time family friend, Lucia Adams, a NOVA educator, who invited her to support the organization by sponsoring NOVA’s 50th Anniversary Gala. "Lucia has always been so passionate about NOVA, and when she invited me to become a sponsor, I was deeply honored. It felt like the right thing to do,” JoAnn shares.
JoAnn’s involvement with NOVA continued to grow, especially through her connection to the 100+ Women Who Care organization. “I once read, ‘Women tend to see the big picture,’” she notes. “I believe that wholeheartedly. The women involved in both NOVA and 100+ Women Who Care have shown me that when we come together with a shared vision, amazing things can happen.”
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Our incredible Upstanders from Pennridge High School visited 7th graders at Pennridge Central Middle School, delivering inspiring peer-to-peer lessons on how to be an Upstander against bullying—not a bystander. | |
The NOVA staff was hard at work throughout the month of December signing holiday cards to show heartfelt gratitude to some of our amazing supporters. We’re so thankful for you this season and always! | |
Our Prevention Educators came together for a festive celebration, providing a chance to reflect on the amazing work they do with students across Bucks County and a moment to recharge for the impactful programs they continue to deliver. | |
For the fourth consecutive year, the Jason Kutt Legacy Fund has generously donated proceeds from their Jason Kutt Legacy Annual Car Meet event to support NOVA's mission of supporting victims and stopping violence. A heartfelt thank you to the Kutt family. | |
Our friends at American Heritage Federal Credit Union generously donated 20 gift boxes filled with nonperishable foods and grocery store gift cards. These thoughtful contributions provided much-needed support to clients during the holiday season. | |
A heartfelt thank you to Lennar Philly Metro for their generous pledge of $18,750 to NOVA, with $6,250 donated annually over the next three years! With their support, we can continue to support victims, stop violence, and make a lasting impact in our community. | |
NOVA staff gathered for our annual holiday luncheon at Giuseppe's Pizza, a festive celebration of the incredible dedication and meaningful work our team does to support the community! | |
NOVA staff embraced the holiday spirit during our annual cookie exchange, swapping a variety of delightfully delicious homemade treats and spreading festive cheer! | |
"The friendly faces and kind professionals made this hard situation much easier."
- NOVA Client
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NOVA announces new board members | The board is comprised of leaders from a variety of backgrounds and industries. | | | | |
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American Heritage Credit Union
In October 2024, NOVA became proud members of American Heritage Federal Credit Union, a community-based financial institution dedicated to giving back and making a positive impact. This partnership has provided a variety of benefits for our staff, reflecting their commitment to supporting local organizations.
Over the past few months, our collaboration has flourished and this past December, American Heritage generously donated 20 gift boxes filled with nonperishable foods and grocery store gift cards. These thoughtful contributions will provide much-needed support to clients in need during the holiday season.
| We are deeply grateful for this partnership and look forward to continuing to work together to make a difference in our community. Thank you to American Heritage Credit Union for being a Voice Against Violence! |
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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. Join us in honoring our 50 year milestone by ordering today! Browse the collection here.
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