North Simcoe Victim Services
~ Crisis Response, Caring Support ~
DOWNTOWN ORILLIA FIRE FUND
We are no longer accepting donations for the Downtown Orillia Fire Fund. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many generous donors who have contributed during this difficult time for our Orillia community. 100% of the funds collected will be directly distributed to the victims.
If you are a direct victim of the Peter Street fire, grant applications for fund distribution are available through NSVS and our community partner, the Orillia Area Community Development Corporation (CDC). To visit the CDC’s webpage please click the logo below. The CDC will not be reviewing the applications, but will have the application form available to pick up at the office at 22 Peter St. S, Orillia.
Applications are to be submitted to exdir@ns-vs.com or at NSVS office 1 University Ave, Orillia
As always, North Simcoe Victim Services is here to offer emotional and mental support. If you need assistance, please call 705-325-5578, and one of our compassionate team members will be happy to help.
Find Support
We Need Volunteers!
Find out how to help and make a real difference in people’s lives. We are always looking for volunteers. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more information.
The North Simcoe Victims Services team is here for you 24/7, seven days a week, 365 days a year
We are committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or ability, deserves respect, support, and the opportunity to thrive. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our policies, practices, and the services we provide, ensuring that all voices are heard, valued, and empowered within our community. Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for everyone we serve.
Strategic Priorities & Objectives
Providing caring and timely response to those in crisis.
Reducing the impact of crime and tragic circumstance.
Supporting resolutions.
The Board of North Simcoe Victim Services has been working together with First Responders, Volunteers, and Community Partners to identify the following 3 Strategic Priorities:
Strategic Priority #1
Strong Relationships
Strengthen relationships with community partners, first responders and volunteers
Strengthen partnerships and understanding of NSVS through increased communication with first responders, community partners and volunteers
Strategic Priority #2
Stewardship of Resources
Optimize human, financial and physical resources
Ensure the human, financial and physical resources available to NSVS are leveraged to their maximum possible potential
Strategic Priority #3
Quality Service Delivery
Provide targeted service support aligned with our clients needs.
We will provide each client with the highest quality service and support tailored to their unique individual needs enabling them to achieve the best possible outcome after their traumatic experience
25 Years of Service to the North Simcoe Community
(pictured here the past and current NSVS volunteers and community partners at our 25th Anniversary celebration at Bayside Restaurant)
Thank you to our funders for their generous support.
Support Advocate for Victim Empowerment
Our latest newsletter
Winter 2024 UPDATE
Click here to read our latest newsletter!
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Executive Director, Kim Kneeshaw
Kim has been with North Simcoe Victim Services since the beginning. In 1999 as well as becoming a Victim Crisis volunteer, she took on the role of Volunteer Coordinator.
In 2019 Kim became the Executive Director to lead our staff and volunteer team, to continue to serve the community with excellence.
To reach out to our Executive Director for inquiries or to book a presentation for your group, email exdir@ns-vs.com
Staff Directory
Development Director – Lynn Thomas
lynn@ns-vs.com – 705 826 1671
Client Services Coordinator – Mandy
clients@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Volunteer Coordinator – Sherry
volunteers@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Administrative Assistant – Christine
support@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Learn more about NSVS
Click on the icons below to learn more about our organization – North Simcoe Victim Services
History
Learn about the history of NS-VS
Board of Directors
Meet the people working hard to help our community
What We Do
There’s a lot we can do to help–discover what we do.
How NSVS Works
Learn how the process works and how we can help.
Partners
We work closely with the community and partners.
Connect with us on Social Media
Meet our Volunteer of the Month - Amanda!
"Hi, I am Amanda. I have been a PWS for 24 years. I have been with Victim Services for almost a year. My career has always kept me busy, but I have always felt a need to help within the community. And I discovered the need within Victim Services. So far it has been a very rewarding experience. It has also helped me better and challenge myself in many ways, and spread love in our community that is needed! I often encourage people to also give it a try and go through the training. With the hope that they have the same rewarding experience. They will meet and work with so many amazing people along the way."
Thank you, Amanda, for your time and commitment to North Simcoe Victim Services!
Today marks Canada’s National Day of Observance for COVID-19 — a time to honour the more than 51,000 lives lost and recognize those still facing the lasting effects of the pandemic. It`s also a moment to reflect on the incredible resilience and sacrifices of Canadians and to express our deepest gratitude to the healthcare and essential workers who have shown unwavering dedication, compassion, and strength throughout these challenging times.
#CanadaRemembers #COVID19 #HonourTheirMemory #ThankYouFrontlineWorkers
Celebrating International Women`s Day, we are recognizing the service to our region by the hard-working, compassionate, dedicated women of NSVS. For the many ways that our all female staff and many women volunteers care for and advocate for the victims in our region, we appreciate you!
We acknowledge the many women in our community who go above and beyond on a daily basis to support those in our community that need to be lifted up.
#crisisresponse #caringsupport #womensday2025
🚨 March is Fraud Protection Month! 🚨
It`s time to stay alert and protect yourself from scams! Throughout March, let`s focus on learning how to safeguard ourselves from fraud. 💡
Top tips for protecting yourself online:
1. Never share personal info over the phone or email.
2. Be cautious when clicking on links or attachments.
3. Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
4. Regularly monitor bank statements for suspicious activity.
If you suspect fraud:
1. Contact your bank, the police, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately.
2. Close compromised accounts and change passwords.
3. Clean your devices – reach out to an IT company for a sweep (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.).
4. Secure all internet-connected devices in your home (appliances, Google devices, etc.).
Fraud Prevention:
1. Always verify email authenticity.
2. Confirm identities by calling directly.
3. Update your passwords regularly with strong ones.
4. Enable two-factor authentication on all devices.
Remember, fraud can happen to anyone. Stay informed, stay safe, and spread the word! 💪
#FraudProtectionMonth #NorthSimcoeVictimServices #StaySafe #ProtectYourself #FraudPrevention #ScamAwareness #Canada
NEWS RELEASE:
North Simcoe Victim Services is granting relief funds to victims of the Downtown Orillia Fire.
Although this is a unique situation in the form of support to the victims of the devastating fire on Peter Street, it is a privilege to help the community heal and recover from this traumatic event.
________________________________________________________________________________________
North Simcoe Victim Services is pleased to be able to support the victims of the total loss of the building on the corner of Peter St. S & Mississaga St, Orillia that was home to several hardworking small businesses. On January 21, 2025 the owners and employees of these businesses expected to put the key in the lock, turn on the lights and turn their sign to “open” to start another business day as usual, but then tragedy struck. This type of tragic circumstance falls within the usual of the types of calls that NSVS responds to throughout the year. Albeit a unique situation, it is important that these victims felt supported during their time of trauma.
In partnership with several local businesses, organizations and donors, NSVS have set up a grant fund to help these victims to recover from this traumatic event. An application is available through the NSVS and Orillia Area Community Development Corp. (CDC) and will be dispersed by NSVS on behalf of the donors to the “Downtown Orillia Fire Fund”. Funds will be given that align with the parameters of the current NSVS programs, providing relief for household expenses, emergency accommodation and counselling. For more information of the NSVS grant funding, please email executive director Kim Kneeshaw exdir@ns-vs.com
We wish to acknowledge the generous donors, Meridian Bank, Connexus Church, donors of the Valentines Day fundraiser through Eclectic Café organized by owners Melanie Robinson & Alana Tudhope, and several community members. We would also like to acknowledge the CDC for assisting in the distribution of the application form on their website www.orilliacdc.com or at their office 22 Peter St. S., Orillia.
Applications close April 15, 2025
NSVS is located at 1 University Avenue, Orillia
Check out our latest article on Orillia Matters about volunteering with North Simcoe Victim Services! It features an inspiring interview with a former victim of crime and how NSVS was there to support them. 🙌 (Photo of previous and current NSVS Crisis Response volunteers at 25th anniversary dinner 2024)
Click here to visit the article -> https://www.orilliamatters.com/local-news/are-you-good-in-a-crisis-local-agency-could-use-your-assistance-10285202
#Volunteer #CommunitySupport #NSVS #OrilliaMatters
🚨 Only a couple weeks left to apply for our spring 2025 training class! 🚨
Training Begins: March 18th, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays evenings
Are you passionate about giving back to your community? Want to support victims and gain valuable skills? This is your chance to make a real impact!
North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) partners with local police and emergency services to assist those affected by tragedies, disasters, and crimes. Our dedicated Crisis Responders provide 24/7 support to victims in their time of need.
As a Crisis Response Volunteer, you will help on the scene and via phone support, offering emotional care, practical help, advocacy, and critical incident-related referrals.
Volunteer Requirements:
• Must be 21 or older
• Must live locally (able to respond to Orillia within 30 minutes when on call)
• Criminal reference check required
• Commitment to 8 weeks of training (2 evenings per week)
• Must attend ongoing training sessions
• Minimum 1-year volunteer commitment
• Ability to commit to 3 shifts per month
• Valid driver’s license, car, and auto insurance required
Join a team that is crucial in supporting victims alongside first responders. For more details or to apply, visit our website or contact Volunteer Coordinator Sherry at volunteers@ns-vs.com.
Make a difference. Become a Crisis Response Volunteer today! 🙌
#VolunteerOpportunity #CrisisResponse #NSVS #GiveBack #CommunitySupport #northsimcoevictimservices
North Simcoe Victim Services was honoured to be nominated for an @orilliachamber Business Achievment award. Though we didn`t win, it was a privelage to see so many charity & non profit organizations in our category being recognized for the many ways we collectively serve the region. Congratulations to @orilliacommunityfridge
for a well earned recognition of your compassionate initiative for our community!
Executive Director, Kim Kneeshaw and Development Director, Lynn Thomas were present to represent the many dedicated volunteers and staff of NSVS who serve victims in our region daily.
#ChamberofCommerce #recognition #community #nsvs #crisisresponse #caringsupport
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Our Programs
Victim Quick Response Program
North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) provides crisis intervention via this program, on-scene or by telephone. Each person’s reaction to a traumatic incident can be quite personal; however, victims of a tragedy or crime often commonly feel they have lost complete control over everything in their lives.
During the aftermath of a tragedy, individuals often want to talk to someone who understands their immediate needs as it relates to their safety and their different choices. NSVCS’ intervention ensures all victims feel safe, secure, and linked to any support services that can benefit their situation. Referrals to other service agencies that offer ongoing support are offered. To learn more about the VQRP program, including eligibility criteria, click here.
Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario
North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) is one of about 50 agencies within the province to offer VCAO programs funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (Province of Ontario). The VCAO teams consist of staff and volunteers within the community who have been trained in crisis intervention to offer practical assistance, emotional support, referrals, and information to victims, either on-scene or via phone.
VCAO programs are driven by dedicated and caring volunteers, working hand-in-hand with police and emergency service personnel. To learn more about VCAO programs, click here.