A local pillar of support for survivors of crime and abuse is marking a major milestone.
Last week, the Victim Services Center of Montgomery County (VSC) celebrated its 50th anniversary at the historic William Penn Inn in Gwynedd with a commemorative evening of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to its mission.
Community members, supporters, elected officials, and advocates gathered to honor five decades of trauma-informed care, prevention education, and advocacy for children, adults, and families impacted by violence and abuse.
VSC’s confidential services are provided at no cost to survivors of crime and their loved ones.
“We appreciate the financial support from individuals, foundations, and governments grants, which is vital to VSC’s operations and sustainability,” said Mary Onama, VSC’s Executive Director. “Every dollar matters, whether large or small, and contributes greatly to ensuring that VSC services remain free and at no cost to survivors of crime.”
Founded in 1974, VSC has grown from a small crisis center into a countywide leader in victim support services. Today, the organization provides free and confidential counseling, therapy, legal and medical advocacy, and 24-hour crisis response to more than 2,500 individuals annually. With a strong focus on healing, empowerment, and prevention, VSC’s work has transformed lives and strengthened communities across Montgomery County.
In addition to direct services, VSC’s Education Department reaches more than 8,000 individuals annually through comprehensive prevention education programs. These include risk reduction strategies, community awareness campaigns, safety planning, and coordinated community response efforts — all designed to prevent violence before it occurs and create a culture of respect and safety for all.
The inspiring event featured moving stories from survivors and advocates, a look back at VSC’s journey, and a vision for the future. VSC also honored several distinguished public servants for their longstanding commitment to supporting victims and promoting justice, including Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele.
Gov. Josh Shapiro lauded VSC’s work in a letter to the nonprofit.
“It is my pleasure to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Victim Services Center of Montgomery County,” he wrote. “It is vitally important that those who are victim of sexual violence and other crimes receive the assistance, service, and counseling that is required for them to heal and regain control of their day-to-day lives. That assistance can range from medical to legal to therapeutic, and it ultimately results in a holistic approach where crime victims feel the strength of the support system that VSC provides.”
Learn more about the Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, the only nonprofit, comprehensive crime-victim agency serving the county.
