Lake of the Ozarks, Mo – The Osage Nation, during an event in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, presented over $60,000 in donations to two Lake of the Ozarks entities that support area victims of abuse and neglect. Each organization received $30,528.07 in donations.
Last month, the Osage Nation hosted a liquidation auction of the Quality Inn and announced that all auction profits would go to Kids’ Harbor Child Advocacy Center and Citizens Against Domestic Violence (CADV). Today, the Osage Nation delivered the donations to help these two organizations meet the needs of the victims they serve.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 24-30, 2022) challenges the country to confront and remove barriers to achieving justice for all victims of crime and recognizes accomplishments that support victims.
Kids’ Harbor provides support to children from birth to 18 who have been victims of sexual, physical or emotional abuse. The center also provides a safe and nurturing environment for children who have witnessed a violent crime or are dealing with unmet physical and medical needs.
“Whether through our comprehensive prevention program, trauma informed, evidence-based counseling, forensic interviews, medical exams, or advocacy, Kids’ Harbor works diligently each day to create a safer community and serve child abuse victims and their safe caregivers. The courage children show in finding their voice to talk about abuse they’ve experienced takes our breath away most days. These kids are true heroes. Generous supporters, like the Osage Nation, allow us to provide these comprehensive, evidence-based services. We can’t change what has happened to these children, but with the support of our community and the Osage Nation, we can change what happens next. Kids’ Harbor is both honored and grateful for this generous donation to help sustain our programs,” said Kids’ Harbor Executive Director Cara Gerdiman.
CADV operates a 24-hour, 7 day a week hotline for victims of domestic violence to seek support. The center works to empower victims through providing crisis intervention, shelter and other support services.
“The proceeds will help us expand our services by adding 12 female beds and a brand-new male suite,” said Citizens Against Domestic Violence Executive Director Sheree Keely. “Everything we do here is free. This includes services and a safe place for victims and their kids. This donation from Osage Nation will provide us with the resources we need so we do not have to turn away victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking.”
Osage Nation Steps Up to Support Local Law Enforcement in Missouri with Unique SWAT Training Opportunity
Miller County, Mo – The Osage Nation provided a unique advanced SWAT police officer-training opportunity as part of their continued efforts to support local law enforcement.
In advance of the demolition of the former Quality Inn, the site of the future home of the Nation’s new casino and entertainment district, the Tribe gave full permission for the Miller County SWAT team to use the facility to provide for real-world law enforcement SWAT training scenarios, and advanced tactics and techniques, before the site is demolished.
“This training is an essential part to ensure our members are proficient and ready for high-risk situations if they should arise. The use of this property was ideal as it represents other businesses and facilities within our area, making for an authentic and true-to-life training experience,” said Miller County Sheriff Louie Gregoire.