The Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence began in the summer of 1997 as a coalition of community providers concerned with the lack of coordinated services to children and adults who had been sexually abused. SEMO-NASV is an advocate for those affected by sexual trauma through the coordination of community services to provide professional, compassionate and timely intervention and education.   SEMO-NASV is a children's advocacy center, which serves abused children through a comprehensive approach to services for victims and their families.  These programs are designed by professionals and volunteers responding to the needs of their own communities.  Children's Advocacy Centers stress coordination of investigation and intervention services by bringing together professionals and agencies as a multidisciplinary team to create a child-focused approach to child abuse cases.  SEMO-NASV was created to help the child through the trauma of abuse and to provide a safe and secure environment in which healing can begin.

   The Green Bear Club was created in memory of Baby Ty, a 2 year old toddler who was tragically killed only 3 months after returning to his biological family from foster care. Members of The Green Bear Club include teachers, nurses, social workers, concerned parents, and others who are concerned about the care, or lack of care, our children receive.   The Green Bear Program was named after Baby Ty's favorite toy while he was in foster care; a little stuffed green bear he affectionately called "Green Bear".  Just as Green Bear gave baby Ty comfort when he was scared or frightened, we want to comfort and care for children through our organization.