(Posted 2023 December)
Earlier this month, Ayaan Ali, victim advocate with the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC), received the Fairfax County Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court (JDRDC) Partner Award. The award was established to honor the partnerships that exist between JDRDC and its neighbors and to celebrate the community efforts which enhance the mission of the agency.
A Partner Award winner:
- works to support the dynamic needs of the agency/customer
- demonstrates the ability to work together to reach a common goal
- supports/promotes agency values and vision
- communicates progress and goals to appropriate parties
Ayaan’s work as an advocate entails meeting with clients while they fill out protective orders, completing safety plans, and linking clients to resources. That job description, however, doesn’t adequately describe how she supports the people impacted by interpersonal violence.
“In this role, Ayaan has to practice high levels of trauma-informed care to ensure the client feels heard and safe,” said Sarah Foster of the JDRDC’s Intake Unit. “Ayaan does not stop from the time she enters the office doors until the time she leaves, often staying after hours to meet the needs of the clients. Nothing stops Ayaan from meeting the needs of the clients, and often she is seen swiftly speed walking through the hallways to get from one client to the next to ensure every client is served.”
Ayaan performs these duties while offering a listening ear and is described by her colleagues as “an amazing problem solver in very time-sensitive and traumatic situations,” a role she has held since starting in DVAC in 2015.
“This award is a testament to Ayaan's outstanding dedication to survivors and unwavering commitment to embracing change in our very dynamic work environment,” said Lydia Guirguis, Advocacy Services supervisor. “We are incredibly proud to have such a compassionate and dedicated staff on our team.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and support.
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