Pursuant to a resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Joe A. Martinez, a comprehensive study was prepared of the existing service delivery system for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and an appropriate improvement plan was developed.

The result of the study of the issues in Miami-Dade County, the “Victims’ Services Feasibility Study,” was presented to the Board of County Commissioners in September 2005. Overall, the results indicated that very valuable victim services are available in the community through a number of private, not-for-profit, community-based providers and the public sector, through the County. While there is a wide array of services, they are not integrated in a fashion or manner to maximize efficiency and ease of accessibility for clients.

On July 18, 2006, the Board of County Commissioner adopted the recommendations of the study spearheaded by Commissioner Martinez. It was recommended that the County establish a demonstration Coordinated Victim Assistance Center (CVAC). The demonstration CVAC will establish the structure and operational model for co-located domestic violence/sexual assault victim assessment, advocacy and referral services, and access to the processes of protection and investigation afforded by the law enforcement and justice system. Recognizing the size and dispersion of Miami-Dade County, at least four (4) centers, located in different areas of the County to provide full accessibility to all County residents, will be necessary. The initial site will be located in the contiguous area with the highest reported incidence rates of domestic violence and sexual assault. County staff has been working tirelessly to identify an appropriate site for said purpose. Commissioner Martinez hopes to announce a chosen site in the coming months.

In order to most effectively implement the demonstration CVAC, several existing programs and services will be co-located at the one site. This initial CVAC will develop the framework for building a comprehensive, countywide network which will provide coordinated short and long term services for victims and their children. The demonstration CVAC will also integrate services available through community-based victims’ services providers.

The CVAC will be visually welcoming and non-institutional. The design will include “quiet rooms” for victims and their families that will foster relaxation and clear thinking; private and comfortable interviewing rooms for victims and similarly appropriate areas for children; children’s play areas; private phone call “booths;” and food preparation and dining areas. Victims arriving at the CVAC will be received by staff, trained to be sensitive and understanding of the needs of a person in crisis, and knowledgeable on how to approach these individuals.

To read more about this initiative/demonstration project and the details of the development of the Coordinated Victim Assistance Center (CVAC), visit the link below:
http://www.miamidade.gov/govaction/matter.asp?matter=062149&file=true&yearFolder=Y2006