Standard 115.21(d) provides that agencies must attempt to provide victim advocates. If they are unable to do so, they can provide a qualified staff member from a community-based organization or a qualified agency staff member. How can agencies identify an appropriate community-based organization?
The regulations do not define “community-based organization.” The intent of the standard is for agencies to partner with a non-profit or tribal organization that serves sexual assault victims even if it is not the sole focus of the organization or a nonprofit organization that has a related purpose. Examples are other victim service agencies, culturally specific organizations, LGBTQ organizations, and other multi-service organizations. Factors in determining the appropriateness of an organization include who the organization serves, what services they offer, any experience they have with sexual assault victims, and any training the staff has received on sexual assault.