VAST loses a position, but not its focus

In 2008, when VAST was faced with shutting its doors for good, Law Enforcement and victims rallied together and put their support in writing. That support led the county commissioners to adopt VAST under its budget making it a permanent county office. At that time, only two positions could be adopted with the third pulled together from surplus and reserves.

In 2009, it was time to talk budgets again and with the economy’s current condition, losing one of three positions became a reality for VAST. With all departments and cities cutting back, asking for additional money for the third position was a long shot at best. The cities and county commissioners gave thoughtful consideration to our request but, understandably, were unable to accommodate VAST’ s request in the end.

We will lose our third advocate come October 15t; however, our goals and services will remain the same. County Prosecutor, Louis Marshall and I both worked hard to secure the VAST office and will continue to make sure the level of services to the community, Law Enforcement and victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault remain the same. We will continue to operate our 24-hour crisis line, as well as respond with Law Enforcement anytime of the day regardless of jurisdiction or department. We will also be available for transportation of victims and will keep the teen dating violence outreach and education in the schools and community. With internal restructuring, Louis and I are confident we can keep our services at the same level without jeopardizing the safety and care of victims in our community.

In 2008, when asked what concern he would have should VAST not be available as a resource, Priest River Police Chief, Ray Roberts responded by saying “A lot of stuff would be left undone.” The advocates and I, having personally worked with each department, have received immense support with the services we provide. We will return that same support to those departments because we know, without them, we would not be here with two advocates today. Their response and assistance is imperative for VAST to continue to place victim and community safety as our top priority.

VAST is still a resource in the community. Being an advocate takes a lot more from someone than just needing a job, advocates are here because we care and cutting off services to anyone in our community, victims and Law Enforcement included is not an option for us.

Peggy Sherbon is the domestic violence case coordinator/VAST supervisor for the Bonner County Prosecutor’s Office.