Durham charity takes home top honours at global awards

Wed, Nov 20, 2024 5:00 PM GMT

Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) is celebrating a major achievement after being named the first-ever winner of the ‘Small Non-Profit of the Year’ award at the International Anthem Awards.

 

The Anthem Awards recognize organizations worldwide for their dedication to social justice and impactful work in driving positive global change, said a VSDR statement.

 

VSDR, chosen from over 2,300 entries across 34 countries, was commended for its social impact and commitment to accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

This small but mighty team of just 14 staff members left the awards ceremony with a haul of 3 Gold, 1 Silver, and 3 Bronze Anthem Awards, along with 2 Community Voice awards and the coveted Non-Profit of the Year title.

 

A driving force behind VSDR’s success is their innovative approach to youth education. Their groundbreaking virtual reality game, ‘In Your Shoes’, was a key factor, winning 7 Anthem Awards. This immersive learning experience is part of the larger Teen IRL Empowerment and Prevention program. It educates youth on the dangers of human trafficking, gang recruitment, exploitation, dating violence, and cyber safety.

 

The program is a collaborative effort between VSDR, survivors of human trafficking, child and family services, school boards, police, a safety village organization, and a game development company. Funding for the program comes from various sources, including the federal government, the Ontario Trillium Foundation, and the Town of Whitby.

 

VSDR’s commitment extends beyond virtual reality. Their ‘Just Hold On’ rap music video, created in collaboration with artists with lived experience, tackles the serious issue of gun violence and gang recruitment. This video is part of VSDR’s annual provincial youth violence prevention symposium, which reached nearly 23,000 young people across the province this year.

 

‘Just Hold On’ itself received 2 Gold Anthem Awards, recognized for its community engagement and focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

“Charities like Victim Services provide critical support and rely on the generosity of donors,” said Krista MacNeil, Executive Director of VSDR, in her acceptance speech. “Please consider donating so we can continue to deliver life-saving prevention and intervention programs.”

 

MacNeil also highlighted the true reward for their work: “Knowing that our efforts are saving lives.” She emphasized the increasing dangers faced by youth online and the importance of innovative education and empowerment initiatives.

 

VSDR’s success at the Anthem Awards is a testament to their dedication to keeping communities safe. Their innovative programs and collaborative approach offer a model for social justice organizations across the globe.

 

For more information about Victim Services of Durham Region and their prevention programs please visit www.victimservicesdurham.ca/home