NOVA, Bucks County’s comprehensive crime victim services agency, recently received two community donations that will help fund support services and prevention education for children and families.
American Heritage Federal Credit Union’s Kids-n-Hope Foundation contributed $2,500 to the organization. NOVA said the funding will strengthen its trauma-informed victim services and education programs focused on safety, resilience and healing.
“This donation strengthens our trauma-informed services and prevention education efforts to help children and families build safety, resilience, and pathways to healing,” said Angela McGettigan, senior director of operations and community engagement at NOVA. “We look forward to continuing to partner with American Heritage Federal Credit Union to make a difference in the community.”
The Kids-n-Hope Foundation, founded in 1996, was the first charitable organization established by a credit union. To date, the foundation has donated more than $4 million to hospitals and nonprofit organizations, including NOVA.
“The Kids-n-Hope Foundation is proud to support NOVA and the vital role they play in providing advocacy, education, and healing to individuals and families,” said Donna Handel, vice president of business development at American Heritage Federal Credit Union. “This donation reflects our ongoing commitment to organizations that create meaningful, life-changing impact in the communities we serve.”
In addition, NOVA received $1,820 from the proceeds of the 2025 Doylestown Santa Crawl, an annual holiday fundraiser where participants dress as Santa, elves or in festive attire while visiting local establishments.
The event, now in its fifth year, drew nearly 50 participants in 2025. Organizer Brian Compas said he modeled the event after the Philadelphia Santa Crawl and wanted to bring the same holiday energy to Doylestown while supporting a local cause.
“I decided that Doylestown would be a great location to create the Santa Crawl’s holiday fun atmosphere,” Compas said. “I also thought it would be a good idea to raise money for a charitable organization that serves our local community.” He added that he selected NOVA because the organization helped his family during a difficult time by connecting them with services and resources.
“We sincerely appreciate Brian Compas and everyone who participated in the 2025 Santa Crawl for their donation of $1,820,” said Penny Ettinger, executive director of NOVA. “This festive tradition continues to make a meaningful difference for those we serve.”
Founded in 1974, NOVA supports and empowers victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes in Bucks County while working to prevent violence through advocacy, training and community education. The nonprofit operates offices in Fairless Hills, Jamison and Perkasie, and its services are funded through government grants, foundations, corporations and private donations.
