Molly Turner, KDOC Office of Victims of Crimes (OVC) Senior Administrative Assistant, recently received the Outstanding System-Based Advocate Award. The annual recognition took place at the 23rd Annual Crime Victims’ Rights Conference in April 2021, hosted by Governor Laura Kelly and Derek Schmidt, Kansas Attorney General.

Turner has been working with victims for over 20 years. Described by co-workers as “…a dedicated, kind, and caring advocate who has a tremendous amount of personal and professional integrity,” Turner credits the many victims she has served for much of her success.

“I give credit to the victims I have worked with that contributed to this recognition. They have made me who I am today, listening to each story and teaching me more about life then I could have ever taught them,” she said.

The recognition came during the observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) the week of April 18–24. This marked the 40th anniversary of NCVRW, dedicated to honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme - “Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.” - emphasized the importance of leveraging community partnerships and support to help victims of crime.

Engaging and strengthening partnerships is one of the goals of KDOC’s Strategic Plan, Pathway for Success. Partnerships can be between organizations or between individuals, all working towards a common purpose.