ACCIS

05/20/2026

We need your help telling Governor Kehoe to keep DVSS, SVSS, and VOCA funds in the state budget!

Last week, the Missouri Legislative Session ended, and we have so much gratitude for the General Assembly for approving the hard work of the budget committees that restored $1 million in domestic violence funding and included $9 million in VOCA funding in the state budget. The budget has made its way to Governor Mike Kehoe's desk. Governor Kehoe now has the ability to do line-item vetoes, where he removes funding previously approved by the General Assembly. Survivor services depend on Governor Kehoe maintaining Domestic Violence Support Services (DVSS), Sexual Violence Support Services (SVSS), and Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funds in the FY2027 budget.

Here's what you can do: Call Governor Kehoe's office at (573) 751-3222 and request that he maintains the DVSS, Sexual Violence Shelter Services (SVSS), and VOCA funding as approved by the General Assembly.

Call today!

05/18/2026

04/24/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims' Rights Week-a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have experienced violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.

Each day this week we will be "Spotlighting" our advocates. Each advocate brings their own unique strengths, perspectives, and compassion for the work we do. When our qualities come together, we become an unstoppable force for support, healing, and change.

We’re excited to introduce one of the compassionate faces behind ACCIS—our Residential Advocate, Joanne Dennison.

Joanne has been part of the ACCIS family off and on for approximately for 19 years, serving in a variety of roles throughout her journey. She first began as a volunteer coordinator, and over the years, her dedication and heart for service have continued to shine in everything she does.

Today, Joanne spends her evenings working one-on-one with our shelter clients, providing support, guidance, and a steady presence during some of life’s most difficult moments. She also co-leads our Domestic Violence Support Group, helping create a safe and empowering space for survivors to heal and connect.

Joanne’s commitment, compassion, and experience make a lasting impact on both our team and the individuals we serve. We are grateful to have her as part of ACCIS!

04/24/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims' Rights Week-a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have experienced violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.

Each day this week we will be "Spotlighting" our advocates. Each advocate brings their own unique strengths, perspectives, and compassion for the work we do. When our qualities come together, we become an unstoppable force for support, healing, and change.

Todays spotlight belongs to Kelly Pittker, ACCIS’ Shelter Advocate!

Kelly brings valuable experience from her work at another domestic and sexual violence shelter, along with a heart fully committed to helping others. At ACCIS, she truly does it all. Whether she’s driving clients to appointments or jobs, mowing the shelter yard, fixing tires, unclogging toilets, or tackling whatever else comes her way—Kelly keeps things running smoothly. Around here, we proudly call her our “Jill of all trades.”

Beyond all the hands-on work, what really sets Kelly apart is the way she shows up for our clients. She believes in them, often before they believe in themselves, and plays a powerful role in helping them find their confidence and success.

Kelly also co-leads the support group at WERDCC, continuing her dedication to advocacy and support in every space she serves.

We’re grateful to have Kelly on our team and for the compassion, strength, and determination she brings to ACCIS every day.

04/23/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims' Rights Week-a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have experienced violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.

Each day this week we will be "Spotlighting" our advocates. Each advocate brings their own unique strengths, perspectives, and compassion for the work we do. When our qualities come together, we become an unstoppable force for support, healing, and change.

Today we are proud to spotlight our Sexual Assault Advocate, Shanann Owens.

Before stepping into her current role, Shanann served on ACCIS’ Board of Directors for over eight years—bringing with her a deep understanding of our mission and an unwavering commitment to survivors. Today, she continues that work on the front lines, providing compassionate advocacy and support to those we serve.

Shanann co-leads the support group at WERDCC and facilitates both Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence groups which are held in ACCIS' Office. Shanann creates safe spaces for healing, connection, and empowerment. Her leadership extends beyond ACCIS as she serves on the Membership Committee for MOCADSV and represents the Northeast Region, helping shape advocacy efforts on a broader scale.

She is also actively involved in PREA work, ensuring that survivors in correctional settings have access to support and resources.

Shanann’s dedication, experience, and heart for advocacy make her an invaluable part of our team. We are proud to have her serving survivors in our community. 💜

04/22/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims' Rights Week-a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have experienced violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.

Each day this week we will be "Spotlighting" our advocates. Each advocate brings their own unique strengths, perspectives, and compassion for the work we do. When are qualities come together, we become an unstoppable force for support, healing, and change.

Today we are proud to spotlight our Court Advocate, Amy Harrell.

Amy has been a vital part of ACCIS since 2012, bringing years of experience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the individuals we serve. She plays a key role in handling the majority of ex parte orders and provides crucial court accompaniment, ensuring survivors never have to face the legal system alone.

In addition to her court advocacy work, Amy co-leads the support group at WERDCC, offering guidance and encouragement to those on their healing journey. She is also actively involved with PREA efforts, advocating for the rights and safety of incarcerated individuals.

Amy’s dedication, strength, and heart for service make a lasting impact every single day.

04/21/2026

This week, we recognize National Crime Victims' Rights Week-a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have experienced violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them every step of the way.

Each day this week we will be "Spotlighting" our advocates. Each advocate brings their own unique strengths, perspectives, and compassion for the work we do. When are qualities come together, we become an unstoppable force for support, healing, and change.

Today we are proud to spotlight our Associate Director/Child Advocate, Kathy Yohe.

For 23 years, Kathy has been a steady source of compassion, support, and strength for the children and families we serve. She not only advocates for children during some of the most difficult times in their lives, but also leads our children's/teens support groups, creating safe spaces for healing, growth, and connection.

Behind the scenes, Kathy plays a vital role in keeping our day to day operations running smoothly. Her commitment, experience, and heart for this work make a lasting impact on everyone she meets.

We are so grateful to have Kathy as part of the ACCIS family.