NCJ Number
101738
Journal
Social Casework Volume: 65 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1984) Pages: 368-373
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The merging of separate services to aid victims of rape, child abuse, and spouse abuse into one new agency in Greensboro, N.C., resulted in both permanence for the services and the continuation of an ideological commitment to victim services in a context of funding constraints.
Abstract
The impetus for the merger came from the local United Way, which had been funding the three small agencies separately. The merger seemed feasible because all three agencies emphasized victim and family advocacy, used volunteers extensively, promoted community education and prevention, and were successful in raising public awareness through the local media. Merging also seemed desirable as a way of providing improved coordinated services and services to clients with multiple problems. A private, nonprofit organization was chosen to act as the umbrella agency for the consolidated program. The merger has been successful because of its retention of agency board members on a new advisory committee, staff retention, the extensive period of staff and volunteer orientation, and the larger agency's positive attitudes toward the new program. Limited resources and the umbrella agency's emphasis on direct service delivery have resulted in a shift in emphasis toward service delivery and a reduction in social action. However, the program offers a model for the provision of services to victims of violence and abuse.