Laurens Police Department Honors Amanda Greer: A Champion for Victims
November 4, 2023
In August 2021, Amanda Greer assumed a pivotal role as the first-ever Victim’s Advocate at the Laurens Police Department. Since then, she has been an unwavering force behind the department’s Victim Services Program, working to create a safer and more supportive community for those who have experienced trauma and violence.
The Laurens Police Department closed out October by commemorating Domestic Violence Awareness Month and highlighting Greer’s remarkable dedication and the positive impact she has had on the Laurens community.
Greer’s vision and determination have been at the forefront of her efforts. She built the Victim Services Program from the ground up, establishing vital initiatives to support and empower victims. One of the most notable of these initiatives is the annual “Walk A Mile in Their Shoes” awareness walk, now in its second year. This event not only unites the community but also raises awareness about the critical issue of domestic violence, which affects countless lives.
In the words of Police Chief Keith Grounsell, “Amanda Greer has been an inspirational driving force in our efforts to support victims. Her dedication and compassion shine through in the initiatives she has pioneered. Amanda’s ‘Walk A Mile in Their Shoes’ walk has become a beacon of hope for victims, and her Escape Bag project provides a lifeline for those in urgent need.”
Greer initiated the Escape Bag project, which provides essential items donated by volunteers to victims who must escape dangerous or abusive environments. This project not only offers practical assistance but also a symbol of hope and support to those taking the brave step to leave harmful situations behind.
Dedication to the community goes even further as Greer became a certified child passenger safety technician and enrolled the department as an Inspection Station, ensuring the safety of the community’s youngest members. This is a testament to her unwavering commitment to every aspect of community safety.
In April, Greer’s tireless efforts paid off when she successfully wrote and secured a grant to supplement her role as Victim’s Advocate. In October, this grant was awarded, securing her position and allowing her to continue her invaluable work, a testament to her dedication and grant-writing skills.
Greer’s impact on the Laurens community extends well beyond her official duties. She has played a crucial role in crafting essential brochures and forms for the Victim Services Department, contributing to its growth and efficiency. She has also been instrumental in numerous community projects and fundraisers, further strengthening the community’s ties and safety nets.
In closing, Chief Keith Grounsell expressed his gratitude and admiration for Amanda’s remarkable contributions, saying, “Amanda, your unwavering commitment to victims and your innovative initiatives have made an indelible mark on our department and community. We are profoundly grateful for your service and look forward to seeing the continued positive changes you will bring working at the state level as a Victim’s Advocate. We wish you all the success in the world and owe you a huge thank you for your service and dedication to the LPD.”
Greer is transitioning to a new positions as Victims Advocate with the South Carolina Probation, Parole and Pardons covering the entire 8th Judicial Circuit. Her legacy as a champion for victims will undoubtedly leave a lasting, positive impact on the Laurens community and beyond. City employee, Diana Guevara has been selected to replace Greer as the Victim’s Advocate with the Laurens Police Department.
