Rep. Ciscomani Honors Arizona Leaders During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Washington, D.C. - The bipartisan Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, co-chaired by Reps. Juan Ciscomani of Arizona and Jim Costa of California, today recognized outstanding leaders from across the nation at its 2026 Awards Ceremony, held as part of CommUNITY Day during National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

Among the honorees are Lori's Place of Sierra Vista and Maria Fuentes, co-chair of the Governor's Council on Child Safety and Family Empowerment.

"I am honored to recognize these two incredible leaders from Arizona's Sixth District," said
Congressman Ciscomani. "Lori's Place and Maria Fuentes embody compassion, leadership, and a deep commitment to standing alongside victims and families during their most difficult moments. Their work is making a real difference in people's lives, and I am proud to see them recognized on a national stage."

The annual ceremony brings together survivors, advocates, and community leaders whose work strengthens support for victims of crime and advances public safety nationwide. This year, Arizona's Sixth District was represented by two honorees whose contributions have made a meaningful impact in their communities.

Lori's Place, based in Sierra Vista, AZ, received the Allied Professional Award, which recognizes an organization or individual outside of direct victim services that has made a significant contribution through fields such as mental health, education, civic leadership, or the justice system. Lori's Place was honored for its leadership and innovative approach to connecting resources and systems to better support victims and their families.

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."

Maria Fuentes was awarded the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award for Public Awareness, recognizing her efforts to elevate the voices and needs of crime victims through media and public engagement. Her advocacy has helped raise awareness, foster important conversations, and advance protections and services for survivors.

Maria Fuentes, Co-Chair of the Governor's Council on Child Safety and Family Empowerment stated:

"I was honored to join Rep. Ciscomani in Washington to accept the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award for Public Awareness. I am privileged to continue advancing this work by working with leaders across Arizona in service of victims, survivors, and their families, and in strengthening support for our communities - including as Chair of the Governor's Council on Child Safety and Family Empowerment and the Governor's Council to Combat Human Trafficking, and as a member of the Board of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This recognition reflects a continued commitment to supporting victims and building stronger communities in Southern Arizona. I remain committed every day to advancing solutions that create lasting change and ensure every victim knows they are supported and that their stories are heard."

Background on the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus:

The Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, founded in 2005, works in a bipartisan manner to elevate the needs of crime victims while supporting policies that strengthen victim services and promote community safety. Through efforts supporting programs such as the Victims of Crime Act and the Violence Against Women Act, the Caucus continues to serve as a resource for Members of Congress and communities impacted by crime.

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