The executive director of The Victim Center in Springfield announced she is stepping down.
Brandi Bartel had been with the nonprofit for 19 years.
“(I)t is very bittersweet for me,” Bartel wrote in an email. “I love the mission and the role, but it’s time for me to focus on my family right now. The agency is in a good position and I’m going to help with the transition process.”
Bartel played “a pivotal role in shaping the nonprofit's mission, vision, and values. During Brandi’s tenure, the organization experienced tremendous growth and delivered vital services to victims of crime and abuse in the community,” a news release said.
“It has been an honor to work alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and collaborating partners,” Bartel said in the release. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together to help clients heal and rebuild their lives.”
Bartel also was an important source for several stories in the Hauxeda's Living in Fear project on domestic violence.
The Board of Directors acknowledged Bartel’s contribution, writing in the release: “We are grateful for Brandi’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to our mission. Brandi has been instrumental in expanding our services, building strong partnerships, and advocating for victims. We wish Brandi all the best in her future endeavors.”
The Board of Directors will begin a search for the next Executive Director to lead the organization. In the meantime, Bartel will assist the organization through the transition process while a successor is being chosen, the release said.
Those interested in applying for the open position can email their resume and cover letter to Anne Crites at acrites@thevictimcenter.org.
About The Victim Center
The Victim Center is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that provides free-of-charge support and services to adult and children victims of violent or sexual crimes.
The organization offers mental health counseling, advocacy, prevention education programs, and 24-hour crisis intervention. In 2023, the organization is on track to serve 2,800 victims and provide prevention education programs to over 8,000 participants.
The Victim Center has an operating budget of about $1.4 million, total assets of about $2.4 million, and is debt-free.
