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Testimonials
Recently, one of our clients prepared to face a difficult day in court. A day filled with emotion, uncertainty, and courage. Through the challenges of fleeing abuse and seeking justice, she had access to vital supports through SARVSS, including our dedicated Court and Support Navigator. As the trial approached, she was reminded that she could bring friends or family for support. At first, she declined, saying, “I think we will be okay.” But on the day of the trial, she told us she had support offers from friends, but chose to attend alone, sharing, “No, I have you.” She used the name of our Court and Support Navigator—a name we’re keeping anonymous here—because to her, that name meant safety, presence, and trust. When reminded again that her loved ones could still come, she simply replied:“I know, but I knew you would be here.”Her words reflect not just trust, but the power of consistent, compassionate support.
Working in rural areas where everyone knows everyone, I’ve seen how hard it can be for victims to come forward — especially when families are deeply connected. There’s often pressure to stay quiet, to ‘keep it in the family,’ and avoid involving the justice system.
I’ve had people tell me, ‘If you weren’t here, I’d be completely alone.’ They’ve said that without support, they wouldn’t have had the strength to stand up, to go to court, or even to speak their truth.
Being that one steady person they can count on — someone outside the circle, who listens without judgment — makes all the difference. I’ve had people cry, hug me, and thank me just for standing beside them.
Those moments remind me why I do this work. Because no one should ever feel alone when they’re at their most vulnerable.”
Working in rural areas where everyone knows everyone, I’ve seen how hard it can be for victims to come forward — especially when families are deeply connected. There’s often pressure to stay quiet, to ‘keep it in the family,’ and avoid involving the justice system.
I’ve had people tell me, ‘If you weren’t here, I’d be completely alone.’ They’ve said that without support, they wouldn’t have had the strength to stand up, to go to court, or even to speak their truth.
Being that one steady person they can count on — someone outside the circle, who listens without judgment — makes all the difference. I’ve had people cry, hug me, and thank me just for standing beside them.
Those moments remind me why I do this work. Because no one should ever feel alone when they’re at their most vulnerable.”
Our Mission
Provide services and support to Southern Alberta’s victims of crime and tragic circumstances
Our Values
We lead with compassion and empathy in all we do.
Humanity
We advocate for the fundamental worth of all people.
Rights & Dignity
We cultivate a safe and supportive space for all.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Our head office is located in the city of Airdrie, located on Treaty 7 territory. Our region covers southern Alberta including the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy including Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai, the Tsuut'ina Nation and Stoney-Nakoda Nation, including the Goodstoney, Chiniki, and Bearspaw and the People of Metis Nation of Alberta.
We would like to acknowledge that we live and work on treaty territory. It is important to pay respect to all the indigenous peoples and honour their past, present and future. Together, we can learn and honour the ways of knowing of Indigenous Peoples, and all peoples, for future generations.
Pillars of Service
Meet
Meet with victims of crime and act as a primary point of contact while they are involved in the criminal justice process.
Mitigate
Mitigate the impact of trauma and the effects of crime providing support, assistance, information, and resources.
Accompany
Accompany victims of crime to criminal justice meetings, appointments, and proceedings.
Refer
Refer victims of crime to justice system partners, specialized and community-based partners, and other local organizations to improve victim responses and enhance access to resources.
Coordinate
Coordinate a local team of volunteer advocates.
Engage
Engage with local communities at events such as parades, farmer’s markets, job fairs, Indigenous ceremonies, etc.
About Us
The Southern Alberta Regional Victim Serving Society (SARVSS) provides a broad range of services under the Victims of Crime and Public Safety Act and Regulation, and in partnership with the Government of Alberta, the Alberta RCMP, specialized and community-based victim serving organizations, municipalities, and other local agencies. SARVSS assists victims of crime throughout the criminal justice process by providing the core services of information, support, and referrals. SARVSS also supports communities by providing resources and support to people undergoing loss and tragic circumstances.
Our Vision
Develop a nurturing community where safety, support, and empowerment thrive.