$1,930 raised by 10 donors
1% complete
$150,000 Goal
Irving Family Advocacy Center has been offering hope within our community for over 40 years. The agency began operations in 1980 as Irving Youth/Family Counseling Services. Its primary concern was juveniles who were delinquent or potentially at risk for destructive behaviors. Over the years, services have expanded and now include counseling to all family members for many mental health issues, although the FAC does not address substance abuse/addiction and psychiatric stabilization. In January of 2002 the agency moved to its current facility. Other agencies now housed in this building are the Irving Police Department’s Domestic Violence and Crimes Against Children units; two Dallas County Child Protective Services units; Family Advocacy Center Victim’s Services; Counseling Services; and a representative from the Dallas District Attorney’s office to help initiate protective orders. These groups work together to ensure that the victims of crime are provided coordinated services in one location. This cooperative effort, plus an increased visibility in the community, has resulted in greater numbers of clients being referred to the agency for counseling, case management, education, and support.
Services Provided
Counseling
Irving Family Advocacy Center offers free counseling to those who live, work, or attend school in Irving. It can be hard to deal with the things that happen in life. From being a victim of a crime to the falling apart of a relationship, or even feeling sad for reasons you can’t describe, it’s common to feel stuck.
Every person, family, and situation is unique. But no matter what you’re facing, we’re here to help.
Victim Services
Irving Family Advocacy Center offers free assistance to victims who may have suffered physical or emotional injuries as a result of a violent crime. As a victim of sexual assault, robbery, assault, domestic violence, or other violent crimes, healing can seem so far off and even impossible. We’re here to help every step of the way, empowering you to re-establish your life and lessen the emotional, physical, psychological, or financial impact you’re facing.
Justice System Access
Irving Family Advocacy Center offers everything victims need in one place, helping to alleviate the stress and confusion of the legal system. After a violent crime, there are many steps to take legally to protect you and your loved ones. This can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already under physical and emotional stress. We’re committed to walking you through this process from start to finish. Our on-site team will clearly and efficiently explain all of your options and help you decide the best way to move forward and heal in the safest way possible.
Education
Families are the bedrock of our community. It’s why we believe that those impacted by violent crimes or who need counseling can’t heal alone.
They need hope, and people to support them on their journey. Expert speakers, training, and education on trauma from violent crimes and other life-changing events.
As most of our full-time counseling department is supervising interns, this does not allow as many of our complex trauma cases to be served with those with greater experience and education. As of December 2023 our waitlist for counseling services is 345 individuals. We are in desperate need of contract therapists who can help meet the increase in demand that we have had post-Covid. Prior to 2021 we received on average 10-15 applications per week for services. That number has jumped to an average of 40 applications per week as of the end of 2023. Working collaboratively with the Victim Services Department and the Crimes Against Children Unit of Irving PD, we have identified that there has been a significant increase in child abuse cases since 2021. These cases went up 69% in 2021 and increased again by 69% the following year. This has led to larger numbers of clients without the increase in staff to support this need. Our largest need is contract therapists and social workers to help serve the clients.
Mission: To bring together law enforcement, victim advocacy, and counseling services to support a healthy and safe community.
Vision: The Irving Family Advocacy Center utilizes innovative and evidence-based approaches to help clients break the cycle of intergenerational trauma, creating a safer community.
Here's how you can help!
$60,000 Fund contract therapists
$30,000 Camp Hope for 20 campers ages 7-12
$30,000 Camp Hope for 20 campers ages 13-17
$10,000 Camp Hope Pathways programming for one year
$10,000 Funding for staff development and training
$8,000 Therapy supplies
$6,000 Counseling curriculum
$5,000 Snacks and water for clients
$4,000 Outreach events for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month
At the Irving Family Advocacy Center, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where every individual and family feels valued, respected, and supported. Our mission is to empower all families and individuals by providing comprehensive advocacy, resources, and support services that are accessible to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, disability, or any other aspect of identity
Organization name
Irving Family Advocacy Center, Inc.
Causes
Domestic/Family Violence & Advocacy
Operating Budget
$100,000 - $249,999
Counties Served
Dallas
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American
BIPOC Leadership
Board Chair
Address
600 W. Pioneer Dr.