Representative Juan Ciscomani Honors Sierra Vista’s Lori’s Place with Allied Professional Award

Tucson, AZ - Wednesday, U.S. Representative Juan Ciscomani honored Lori's Place in Sierra Vista with the Allied Professional Award, recognizing organizations and individuals outside of direct victim services who have made significant contributions through fields such as mental health, education, civic leadership, and the justice system.

Lori's Place was recognized for its tireless efforts to connect victims and their loved ones with critical resources and support during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. During the ceremony in Sierra Vista, Rep. Ciscomani delivered remarks before presenting the award to Lori Rutherford, founder of Lori's Place, alongside the organization's dedicated staff.

"The tireless advocacy Lori's Place provides to victims and their loved ones throughout our community is truly incredible," said Rep. Juan Ciscomani. "Their leadership and commitment to serving individuals facing difficult challenges have made a lasting impact across Southern Arizona. I am grateful for their continued efforts to support those in need and strengthen our local communities every day."

Lori Rutherford, Founder of Lori's Place, stated:

"At Lori's Place, we are proud to serve as the only family advocacy center supporting individuals and families across Cochise, Graham, and Greenlee Counties. Since our founding in 2016, our mission has been rooted in compassion and a steadfast commitment to meeting survivors where they are.

"As a former emergency room nurse, I witnessed firsthand the gaps survivors often face and was driven to help create a space that provides comprehensive, coordinated care, completely free of charge. From peer support to victim advocacy services, Lori's Place has become a trusted resource for those navigating some of life's most difficult moments.

"Lori's Place also provides critical services in partnership with law enforcement, including forensic interviews and forensic medical exams, ensuring proper evidence collection and a coordinated response. We are deeply grateful to be part of this community and to stand alongside our survivors every day.

"It was a true honor to be recognized by Congressman Juan Ciscomani with the Allied Professional Award, highlighting our team's dedication to collaboration, innovation, and strengthening services across Southern Arizona, helping victims become survivors."

As co-chair of the bipartisan Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, U.S. Rep. Ciscomani continues to elevate the needs of crime victims in a bipartisan manner while supporting policy programs such as the Victims of Crime Act and the Violence Against Women Act, which provide greater resources for individuals who have been victims of violence and ensure medical staff, volunteers, and local community members have the resources needed to serve communities across Southern Arizona.

Read more about the event, covered by the Sierra Vista Herald HERE.

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