National Mass Violence Victimization Resource Center

Mass violence incidents (MVIs) in the U.S. have killed and injured thousands, harmed the behavioral/mental health (BH/MH) of countless others, and restricted freedom to enjoy life.  The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) established the National Mass Violence Victimization Resource Center (NMVVRC) in 2017 at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to help OVC improve our nation’s capacity to respond to MVIs. The purpose of this application is to continue NMVVRC’s activities. Major goals are to: 1) Continue/expand NMVVRC’s development and implementation of evidence-based best practices addressing BH/MH needs of MVI victims; 2) Assume responsibility for the Improving Community Preparedness to Assist Victims of Mass Violence: Training Technical Assistance project (ICP-TTA); and 3) Host a national conference convening stakeholders to share best practices related to MVI response. There are eight objectives, each with associated deliverables. Activities include: 1) Training, education, consultation, and technical assistance; 2) Producing materials addressing BH/MH effects of MVIs, hate-motivated MVIs, unmet victim needs, and related topics; 3) Using technology to leverage access to training materials focused on improving BH/MH services for MVI survivors via online courses, a comprehensive website, and self-help apps for survivors and others impacted by MVIs; 4) Completing/operating the online AEAP application portal and Virtual Resiliency Center; 5) Conducting community-based learning collaboratives;  6) Advancing the ICP-TTA project by providing community assessments, resources, and TTA that facilitate capacity to address MVI victims’ needs in community emergency response plans; and 7) Hosting a national conference. A distinguished group of partner organizations and subject matter experts will assist NMVVRC staff in completing activities/deliverables.