At NOVA, our mission is to provide comprehensive, compassionate support to victims and their families. Through specialized programs like our Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) services and Child Advocacy Center (CAC), we address critical needs for victims of sexual assault and non-fatal strangulation. Our FNE program offers specialized medical care and forensic expertise, ensuring both immediate support and the careful handling of evidence essential to justice. The CAC provides young survivors with a safe, supportive environment, offering resources like trauma counseling and legal advocacy tailored to each family’s journey of healing.

Beyond our victim-centered and evidence-informed services, NOVA also extends care through simple yet meaningful initiatives, like our Holiday Gift Program. Although not as specialized, this program is another way we bring comfort and hope to families during the holiday season. From forensic services to community-centered support, NOVA strives to meet the diverse needs of those we serve, promoting healing, resilience, and helping bring joy to some of their darkest days.

Take time to read more about our programs and how you can help.

50th Anniversary Milestone: The History of the Bucks County Children's Advocacy (CAC)

The Bucks County Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC), a program of NOVA, was founded in 2008 through a partnership between the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office, Children and Youth Social Services, the Bucks County Health Improvement Partnership (BCHIP), and local law enforcement agencies. This collaborative effort aimed to transform how child abuse cases are investigated by focusing on minimizing the trauma experienced by child victims while ensuring a comprehensive, coordinated approach to addressing abuse.

At the heart of the CAC’s mission is providing a child-friendly, supportive environment where a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including law enforcement, medical personnel, victim advocates, prosecutors, and child protective services, work together under one roof. This approach ensures that the needs of children and their families are met with care and compassion while ensuring a thorough investigation into abuse allegations.

A key component of the CAC's work involves conducting forensic interviews, which are designed to be child-centered and developmentally appropriate, minimizing the number of interviews a child must undergo. Additionally, the CAC connects children and families with essential services such as therapy, medical evaluations, and victim advocacy, ensuring ongoing support throughout the investigation and healing process.

Since its inception, the CAC has served thousands of children and their families across its three locations in Jamison, Perkasie, and Fairless Hills. Through its continued dedication to reducing trauma, improving investigations, and providing comprehensive support services, the CAC remains a vital resource for the community, putting the needs of child victims at the forefront of every case.

NOVA's Holiday Gift Program: Spreading Cheer for Over 20 Years

For more than two decades, NOVA has been brightening the holiday season for our clients through the annual Holiday Gift Program. Each year, our dedicated counselors and advocates identify clients in need, and with the help of our generous community, we provide essential items such as gift cards, food, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and coats.

In our first year, we supported 25 clients. This year, we are proud to have the largest group ever—serving 103 individuals and families.

The Holiday Gift Program goes beyond simply providing material items. It brings comfort, dignity, and a sense of belonging to those who are often facing the most difficult times in their lives. Victims of crime and trauma often feel isolated, vulnerable, and disempowered, and the holidays can be a particularly challenging time. Through this program, NOVA helps ease that burden, reminding our clients that they are supported by a caring community.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we partnered with donors who “adopted” clients and purchased gifts from their wish lists. These lists often included essentials like socks, warm coats, underwear, boots, and food. However, when the pandemic struck in 2020, we reimagined the program, asking donors to contribute funds or purchase gift cards instead. By providing gift cards, we empower clients to choose the items they need most—whether it’s clothing, household essentials, a special toy, or other necessities.

For many victims of crime, their sense of control has been taken away. This program offers a small yet powerful way to help them regain that sense of power and autonomy, allowing them to make choices that best fit their needs. It’s more than a gift—it’s an opportunity to rebuild confidence and self-sufficiency.

For over 20 years, we’ve been providing for clients during the holidays, and we need your help again this year to make the program successful. Sign up to donate a gift card or contribute to our Facebook fundraiser / via Venmo (NOTE: If donating through Venmo, please write "Holiday Gift Program" in the description of your transaction). Together, we can make this holiday season a bit brighter for those who need it most and remind them that they are not alone.

The Role of a Forensic Nurse

A forensic nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who provides comprehensive, trauma-informed, patient-centered care to survivors of sexual assault, while also collecting evidence related to criminal cases. They serve as a crucial bridge between healthcare and the legal system.

Primary Responsibilities:

Providing medical care to victims of violence
Documenting injuries and collecting evidence
Taking detailed patient histories
Testifying in court cases when needed
Supporting patients through trauma
Connecting patients with support services and resources

The Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE)

A sexual assault nurse examination is a comprehensive medical examination performed by specially trained forensic nurses. The exam serves two main purposes:

Providing thorough medical care to the patient
Collecting evidence for potential legal proceedings

What to Expect During an Examination

Initial Meeting: The nurse will explain the process and obtain consent. The patient has the right to decline any part of the exam. A patient advocate can be present for support

Medical Care: Treatment of injuries. Education and treatment of sexually transmitted infections if warranted. Emergency contraception if warranted. Assessment of other medical needs.

Evidence Collection: Taking photographs of visible injuries. Collecting clothing that may contain evidence. Swabbing various areas of the body for DNA evidence. Collecting samples from under fingernails if relevant. Documenting all findings carefully.

Follow-up Care: Instructions for follow-up medical care. Safety planning if needed. Resources for additional support

Important Notes

The sexual assault exam is free of charge.
Patients can stop or pause the exam at any time.
The process typically takes 2-4 hours.
Best practice for evidence collection is the sooner the better, but the patient has up to 5 days (120 hours) to have an exam completed post-assault.
Medical care can be provided even if the patient doesn't want to report to law enforcement.

Traci Carr, BSN, RN, Forensic Nurse Coordinator

Can you give a brief description of your role with NOVA?

I help to oversee the Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) program and support the nurses in the field.

How long have you been with NOVA?

5 months.

What is your favorite part about working at NOVA?

Having a deep sense of purpose, knowing that my work directly impacts lives and brings positive change.

How do you support NOVA's mission in your role?

As the Forensic Nurse Coordinator at NOVA, I support NOVA's mission in my role by helping to bring awareness to the community, ensure that victims of violence receive compassionate care and justice, and collaborate with law enforcement and medical professionals to enhance the support system for those in need.

What is one thing people should know about NOVA?

One thing people should know about NOVA is its unwavering commitment to providing trauma-informed care, while advocating for systemic change. NOVA is a pillar of hope and strength, ensuring that every victim has a voice and the resources they need to reclaim their lives.

We appreciate your dedication to serving victims of crime!

Smarter Parents, Safer Kids

Nov. 5 | Nov. 15 | Dec. 12

This interactive workshop helps parents learn about healthy development, how to talk to their kids about sexual abuse, and how to keep them safe. The Smarter Parents program helps adult caregivers tackle tough conversations with their children, along with empowerment and support. Virtual and in-person sessions are available. Learn more and RSVP to your chosen session here.

Shopping for a Cause Event

November 19 | 4 PM - 6 PM

Join us on November 19th from 4 PM to 6 PM in the NOVA Jamison office for a special shopping event hosted by Tari Zarka from AAOTE. Enjoy an exclusive shopping experience while supporting a great cause—20% of all sales will be donated to NOVA. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to shop unique handmade jewelry pieces and give back!

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—stay tuned for more details!

NOVA Office & Thrift Shop Closures

The NOVA offices will be closing early at 12 PM on Wednesday, November 27th due to NOVA's annual staff luncheon.

The NOVA offices and NOVA Thrift Shop will be closed on Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

NOVA's 24/7 Helpline will remain open and available at 1-800-675-6900.

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.

A Season of Hope: Join NOVA to Support Hope and Healing in Bucks County

As the season of generosity and thankfulness approaches, we invite you to join NOVA in making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families affected by crime in Bucks County.

For 50 years, NOVA has been the comprehensive victim service organization in Bucks County, providing essential resources and compassionate assistance to victims during their most challenging times. Through counseling, advocacy, and other supportive services, we have helped over 100,000 people to journey toward healing and our prevention education programs have reached more than one million children and adults with the knowledge and skills to sow the seeds of a healthier, kinder community. As one of our clients shared, “NOVA gave me the strength to believe in myself again.”

This holiday season, your support can help us continue our vital work. By contributing to NOVA you are standing alongside your neighbors in need and ensuring they receive the help they deserve and investing in the future of a Bucks County we all want to live in. Let’s make this season one of compassion and generosity—because every act of kindness counts.

Team NOVA hit the trails at the 10th Annual NAMI Bucks County Stride 5K Walk for Mental Health Awareness at Warminster Park!

Representatives of NOVA and the CAC attended the BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) Annual Bike Show, joining the fight against child abuse.

We had an amazing time at the Jason Kutt Legacy Annual Car Meet! Huge thanks to the Kutt Family for their generous support, donating proceeds to NOVA for the fourth year in a row!

NOVA partnered with the Danaher Lynch Family Foundation to present our Respectful Citizenship Program to about 50 middle schoolers from regional Catholic schools at Conwell-Egan High School.

During BCAT's annual hotel outreach event, we were able to reach 17 Bucks County hotels and educate their staff on human trafficking. Hotels are a hot spot for trafficking, and with the help of BCAT's volunteers, we were able to arm hotel staff with information to be a part of the solution and fight alongside us.

NOVA Victim Advocates shared their insights with university students on a victim services panel at Eastern University, discussing their careers in victim advocacy and the vital services NOVA provides, as well as tips for navigating post-college careers.

NOVA Executive Director Penny Ettinger spoke to attendees of an Autumn Dinner Party hosted by generous NOVA board members, sharing powerful insights about our work supporting victims and ending violence in Bucks County.

NOVA participated in a panel discussion on abuse, joining forces with the Bucks Co. District Attorney's Office and A Woman's Place . Together, these inspiring panelists sparked a meaningful dialogue about the issues of human trafficking, child abuse, and domestic violence.

NOVA staff flexed their creative muscles in a lively pumpkin decorating contest, highlighting their artistic flair. A big congratulations to Victim Advocate Alyssa K. for winning first place with her remarkable "Audrey II" themed pumpkin!

In celebration of Halloween, participating NOVA staff embraced the festivities by coming to work in costume! A standout of the day was our incredible Counseling department, who came together to brilliantly embody the various emotions from Inside Out.

We had the pleasure of hosting NOVA’s 2024 Staff Retreat at the Elmwood Park Zoo! Staff retreats are one of the rare moments when all of NOVA’s team comes together to connect, learn, and have fun. This year’s retreat was packed with excitement—from feeding giraffes and meeting animals up close to competing in a lively team photo scavenger hunt. Visit our social media pages to view more photos from the day!

"My counselor was really caring and took the time to listen. They made me feel like a person, not just a patient."

- NOVA Client

Upstander Day promotes kindness, inclusion

NOVA's annual Upstander Day took place on the Epstein Campus of Bucks County Community College in Bristol Township Sept. 29.

Elmwood Park Zoo

NOVA is proud to have partnered with Elmwood Park Zoo for our annual staff retreat on October 14th. The zoo hosted our team, providing a memorable day filled with fun and adventure. Highlights of the day included a zoo scavenger hunt, feeding the giraffes, exploring the grounds, and visiting all the amazing animals. Of course, we couldn’t leave without checking out their fantastic gift shop!

We are so grateful to Elmwood Park Zoo for their hospitality and for making our retreat extra special. Thank you for supporting NOVA and helping our staff recharge and reconnect!

We are so incredibly grateful for Elmwood Park Zoo for their support of NOVA. Thank you for being a Voice Against Violence and supporting NOVA's work in our community!

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.

www.novabucks.org | 24-7 Helpline: 1-800-675-6900