Community Spotlight: Crime Victim Center of Erie County

By: Bobbie Fenno

In the heart of Erie County, a quiet but powerful force has been working for over five decades to support survivors of crime: the Crime Victim Center (CVC). Founded in 1973 by Joan Martin, the agency began as the Erie County Rape Crisis Center after Martin's family member survived a sexual assault. With no services available at the time, Martin set out to build the support network her family needed but could not find.

What began as a small crisis response team has grown into a comprehensive, countywide resource. Today, the CVC operates from its main office at 125 W. 18th Street in Erie, as well as five satellite offices in Girard, Union City, Edinboro, Corry, and North East.

CVC's mission is simple yet far-reaching: to reduce crime and lessen its impact through counseling, prevention education, and advocacy. They carry out this mission through an array of free, confidential services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, immediate crisis intervention, individual and group counseling, court and legal advocacy, hospital accompaniment, including forensic exam support, assistance with victim compensation and restitution, and prevention education in schools, workplaces, and community organizations.

The center also offers trauma-informed programming such as equine-assisted therapy and a yoga-based psychoeducation program that helps survivors reconnect with their bodies and regain confidence after trauma.

CVC serves every victim of crime, and the organization emphasizes that its services do not discriminate by gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or income level. This commitment is especially meaningful for LGBTQIA+ survivors, who often face additional barriers when seeking help. Whether someone needs counseling, medical advocacy, or simply a safe place to talk, CVC ensures that inclusive, affirming care is available to all.

In 2023, CVC celebrated its 50th anniversary. Looking ahead, the center has a major project underway with the development of a Sexual Assault Response Center (SARC) adjacent to CVC's headquarters. This new center will provide 24/7 care from trained advocates and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, offering a private, trauma-informed space for medical treatment, forensic evidence collection, and emotional support.

CVC keeps the community involved through a variety of signature events throughout the year, including a Cornhole Tournament in February, "Turn the Courthouse Blue" and Pinwheel Planting in April (during Sexual Assault Awareness Month), a Kentucky Derby fundraiser in May, a formal gala in September, and a Holiday Open House in December.

CVC welcomes volunteers and community partners. To get involved, you can email Zac Mahon at zachary.mahon@cvcerie.org or call 814-455-9414. They're especially looking for dedicated volunteers to support their key events. Financial support is also vital. Donations fuel their free services, including counseling, crisis lines, court advocacy, and more, for everyone who needs them.

If you or someone you know has been affected by crime, whether recently or in the past, the Crime Victim Center is there, 24/7, confidential, and free.

About the Author

Bobbie Fenno Bobbie Fenno (She/Her) joined as a contributing editor in 2025, but has been involved with Erie Gay News as a folding volunteer previously. She graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor's degree in Business, a certificate in Project Management, and an Associate's in Information Technology. Bobbie is also an active member of the LBT Women of Erie group and was also a board member for the NWPA Pride Alliance for four years (2021-2024).