History of VWAP

In 1983, the Young Lawyer's Section of the Dauphin County Bar Association opted to develop a community project. These volunteers formed a steering committee to research the formation of a Victim/Witness Assistance Program by determining the needs and gaps that existed within the community.

In 1984, Martha Emerich, herself a victim of a DUI, was recruited as the coordinator of the project until the hiring of an Executive Director. Seed money was acquired through several local foundations and donors to provide for start up costs. During this year, the incorporated agency officially opened its doors with only a phone line and a filing cabinet at the Dauphin County Bar Association.

Later in 1984, VWAP received 501 c(3) tax-exempt status and began serving crime victims.

In 1985, VWAP received a grant from the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency through Act 96 - the Bill of Rights for Crime Victims. In April of the same year, the first paid position was created - a part-time Executive Director - and the program relocated to the Dauphin County Courthouse.

During the next few years, VWAP operated with a small paid staff, assisted by volunteers and interns from local colleges. Gradually, VWAP added additional part-time positions that developed into full-time staff.

As Pennsylvania allotted more victim service funding, VWAP expanded staff and services based upon victim's needs.

Today, VWAP serves over 8,000 victims and witnesses annually.

VWAP staff includes: Executive Director, Manager of Direct Services, Receptionist, Protection from Abuse Coordinators, Child Abuse Victim Advocate, Juvenile Crime Victim Advocates, , Greater Harrisburg Area Advocate, Harrisburg City Crime Victim Advocates, and Northern Dauphin County Crime Victim Advocate, Lower Paxton Township Crime Victim Advocate, Swatara Township Crime Victim Advocate, Derry Township Crime Victim Advocate and a Victim Impact Panel Coordinator.