President Barack Obama commemorated the 15th anniversary of this historic law in a Presidential Proclamation:

Far too many women in our communities and neighborhoods, and across the world, continue to suffer from violence. Inspired by the promise and achievement of the Violence Against Women Act, our Nation stands united in its determination to end these crimes and help those in need.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim the Fifteenth Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act. I call upon men and women of all ages, communities, organizations, and all levels of government, to work in collaboration to end violence against women.

Since 1996, the Tulare County District Attorney's Office Victim/Witness Program has provided victims with services such as crisis intervention, court support, case status and update, assistance in filing for benefits from the State Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board, and orientation to the criminal justice system. We are the major provider of services to victims in Tulare County.
 

In 2008, we provided services to approximately 1,200 victims and witnesses. We have advocates located in Visalia and Porterville, and work closely with all of the governmental agencies, as well as community service organizations. Our efforts are instrumental in improving the criminal justice system's response to violent crimes against women, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking. Our program is always looking for qualified volunteers to help us help victims.

If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about the Victim/Witness Program, call Julia Patino
at (559) 733-6754 or visit us on the web at www.da-tulareco.org/victim_witness.htm.