Victim Advocacy Program
Building 3338, Redeye Rd256-876-5397
Operating Hours: Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
VAP contact information is:
Colleen M. Nicholson, MA
Sexual Assault Response Coordinator,
Victim Advocate Coordinator
24/7 emergency # (256) 508-6613
Purpose of program:
To provide services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, the Victim Advocate Program (VAP) is a voluntary program that collaborates with Family Advocacy Program (FAP), Army Community Service (ACS), law enforcement (MP and CID) local police, medical facilities, legal and command. In addition to community recourses, such as Crisis Services of North Alabama.
Program Description:
The Victim Advocate Program (VAP) is for active duty military, retirees, their families, or intimate partner. It is designed to ensure that each person reported as a victim of domestic violence and sexual assault is provided support and assistance through the services of a victim advocate. Services include crisis intervention, emotional support, obtaining protective orders, securing emergency food and/or shelter. VA provides: information and training about domestic violence and/or sexual assault; ensure safe and confidential ways of seeking assistance; informs victims of their rights as military family/service members and available resources to assist them, and coordinate information and services with various military agencies and civilian community. The VA serves as a liaison if designated by the service member's chain of command and provides information on psychological aspects of abusive behavior and the specific needs of domestic violence and sexual assault victims. In addition, the VA serves as an advocate for the victim. VA attends Case Review Committee (CRC) as a non-voting member to represent the victim's interests.
Victims of sexual assault have complete confidentiality. VAP has restricted reporting which allows for the victim advocate to provide services and options to victims of sexual assault without reporting it to local law enforcement, military police (MP), criminal investigation department (CID), or command.
For more information contact Colleen Nicholson at 256-876-5397 or email at colleen.nicholson@us.army.mil.
