Leading the Nation in Victim Services and Crisis Response Since 1975
At NOVA, we train advocates and crisis responders so they can provide effective and compassionate victim assistance. We offer credentialing to ensure those working directly with crime victims meet and maintain the highest standards and professional core competencies. We promote public policy supporting victims’ rights and are dedicated to meaningful change and help for victims and their families.
NOVA News and Updates
Youth Advocacy Leadership Center
NOVA’s Youth Advocacy Leadership Center (YALC) advances youth engagement in victim services by providing youth and youth-serving organizations with training, technical assistance, and professional development that empower young leaders and those who support them.
NEW NOVA Membership features!
The NOVA Membership Program empowers victim advocates by fostering connection, growth, and resilience
Support your staff and enhance your services with NOVA’s agency membership options!
NCAT Registration is Open!
NCAT will be offered January 21 through March 4, 2026 (Wednesdays only) from 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM (EST).
This training is virtual only with occasional pre-work and homework materials.
2025 Board Awards
Each year, the NOVA Board of Directors presents awards to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of individuals and programs in the victims’ movement.
And the award goes to…
Pro-Bono Consulting for Nonprofits
We are connecting business leaders with nonprofit victim service agencies in need of free strategic counsel and management advice to support and sustain critical, life-saving victim services for survivors.
Initiatives

Premier Annual Conference for Victim Assistance Professionals
Each year, NOVA hosts an Annual Training Event which brings together thousands of victim advocates, crisis responders and allied professionals to engage learn and grow together. With nearly 100 workshops, inspiring keynotes and engaging opportunities to network, you don’t want to miss this event.

Advocate Credentialing
NOVA offers professional credentialing to victim advocates through the National Advocate Credentialing Program® and Department of Defense Sexual Assault Advocate Certification Program. Benefit from enhanced recognition, credibility, and mobility in the victim assistance field with credentialing.

Professional Resources
Find professional development and career advancement resources for victim advocates and crisis responders. Get information about career opportunities in victim advocacy and crisis response, attend our next career fair, and view open job positions at NOVA.