The Irving Family Advocacy Center (FAC) is a welcoming facility full of hope and help for victims of domestic and violent crime. Started in 2002, the FAC’s mission is to provide assistance and safety to crime victims, including victims of domestic violence. During 2015, the FAC served more than 200 victims each month, including many cases representing abused children and teens struggling to cope. The FAC was designed to comfort those visiting the facility and includes a special children’s room. When NEC Corporation of America’s Carter Holston toured recently, he noticed the facility lacked a place for teens, who represent 20 percent of the clients FAC serves. FAC staff agreed the need existed, so Holston led the charge, and NEC stepped up in a big way.
“Touring the FAC was an eye-opening experience for me,” said Holston, NEC’s general manager of real estate. “I know the funds donated by the NEC Foundation will go a long way in helping those who have been victims of crime in our city.” Shin Takahashi, president and CEO of NEC Corporation of America, said he was pleased the foundation’s funds will be put to good use in Irving.
“We at NEC have a long tenure here in the City of Irving,” said Mr. Takahashi. “We want to be good corporate citizens and help apply our technologies to make Irving a better and safer place to work and live.” “We are so grateful to NEC,” said Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne. “The FAC is a very unique model that has helped so many Irving families. We are proud of its success and thrilled NEC recognized the value it provides, as well.”
The FAC serves Irving residents, and it houses professionals representing multiple disciplines, including:
- Domestic violence investigators.
- A Victim’s Services unit that works directly with victims of violent crimes.
- Child Protective Services investigators that handle any child abuse issues.
- Therapists that provide ongoing counseling.
That uniqueness earned the FAC the 2015 Excellence in Victim Services Awards from the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Last October, the FAC won for its victim-centered services, effective partnerships, training methods and monitoring tools.
“Violent crime affects the whole family, whether it’s child abuse, domestic violence or a robbery,” said Irving Chief of Police Larry Boyd. “We believe if we can provide emotional support for victims, we’ll have a better community. NEC’s corporate support will help many Irving youth.”
For more information about the FAC and the many services offered, visit cityofirving.org/fac or call (972) 721-6560; confidentiality is maintained. The FAC is located at 600 W. Pioneer Drive.
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