A new program, the Whidbey Island Victims of Violent Crime Roundtable, seeks to bring people together who have experienced violent crime.

The three week series will provide resources to this group and allow for survivors of violence to meet others who have experienced a similar trauma to engage in peer support. In addition, the roundtable seeks input to help identify gaps in services, ranging from the time of the incident through recovery stages, as a way of improving services to victims.

The first program is set for 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at the Coupeville Community Bible Church, 502 Otis St. N.E., Coupeville. The roundtable is not affiliated with this church, or any other faith-based organization.

This program is coordinated by Jessica Drain, lead victim advocate for Families and Friends of Violent Crime Victims based in Everett, with satellite offices throughout the Puget Sound region. Individuals wishing to participate in this program are asked to call Drain for an “intake process” at 360-223-0958. Due to grant requirements, victims of domestic violence or sexual assault will be referred to CADA, Citizens Against Domestic and Sexual Abuse.