Raising Cane’s, a fast-food chicken chain known for its simplicity, has recently surpassed KFC in annual U.S. sales, solidifying its position as the third-largest chicken restaurant in the country. With over 900 locations and ambitious growth plans, the company attributed its success to its straightforward menu and a recent surge in system sales, which reached $5.1 billion last year. Founder Todd Graves has expressed aspirations for Raising Cane’s to join the ranks of the top restaurant chains, with an eye on exceeding $10 billion in sales.

Article Subheadings
1) Capitalizing on the chicken boom
2) New rivals
3) Self-made
4) Expansion plans
5) Industry outlook

Capitalizing on the chicken boom

Founded by Todd Graves in August 1996, Raising Cane’s started with a vision centered around chicken fingers. Using his savings from a job in an oil refinery and fishing in Alaska, he opened the first location near Louisiana State University. The name “Raising Cane’s” was inspired by his labrador retriever, leading to a brand that has remained consistent in its offerings over the years.

In a relatively short time, Raising Cane’s has amassed a robust presence with over 900 locations across the United States. This exponential growth is not merely due to specific regional popularity, as the chain has expanded into diverse markets outside its original Louisiana and Texas strongholds. This expansion is a testament to the increasing popularity of chicken as the meat of choice for American diners.

The chain’s unwavering focus on a simple menu — featuring chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and its signature dipping sauce — has evidently resonated with customers. As many chicken chains attempt to diversify and introduce limited-time offers, Raising Cane’s remains committed to its minimalist approach, ensuring customers know exactly what to expect when they visit.

New rivals

However, the fast-food landscape is changing as chicken-centric offerings from established competitors increase. Raising Cane’s faces fierce competition not only from traditional chicken chains like Chick-fil-A and Popeyes but also from major players like McDonald’s and Taco Bell, who have introduced their own chicken products. Nonetheless, Raising Cane’s co-CEO AJ Kumaran expressed confidence in their unique position within the market.

Kumaran stated,

“We are the chicken finger meal experts. We don’t think anybody can do it better than us at the scale that we do.”

His assertion highlights Cane’s focus on quality and efficiency, which distinguishes it from its competitors, allowing them to thrive even in a competitive culinary landscape.

It’s important to point out that while many competitors suffer from sales declines, Raising Cane’s has achieved significant growth. According to recent data from industry analysts, Cane’s is rapidly adapting to the changing marketplace while maintaining its core values, solidifying its place as a leader in the chicken restaurant industry.

Self-made

Raising Cane’s decision to operate its own restaurants rather than adopting a franchising model has proved effective in maintaining quality and consistency across all locations. While most fast-food chains grow through franchise development, Cane’s has kept approximately 97% of its locations company-owned. This approach, according to Kumaran, offers full control over operations and the ability to maintain quality standards across all outlets.

As Kumaran highlighted,

“We quickly realized that, in our hearts, we are operators, and we’re good at it.”

This philosophy has allowed Cane’s to sustain not just profitability but also customer loyalty — factors crucial for long-term success in this highly competitive space.

The financial strength of Raising Cane’s can be evidenced by its impressive average unit volume, reported at $6.6 million per restaurant compared to the industry average of $4 million. This level of financial performance places Cane’s in a strong position relative to its competitors, establishing further credibility in its growth strategy.

Expansion plans

Looking ahead, Raising Cane’s has ambitious expansion plans, aiming to nearly reach the 1,000 restaurant milestone by the end of 2025. Their expansion strategy revolves around intelligent site selection, focusing on high-traffic areas with good population density. The company intends not just to increase the number of locations, but also to establish a sustainable presence in varied markets.

Kumaran has emphasized the importance of thorough research before choosing locations. “We look at potential traffic drivers such as schools and neighborhood dynamics, seeking to plant roots in communities that could foster long-term relationships with our customers,” he noted. This forward-thinking strategy aims not only for increases in revenue but also for cultivating enduring consumer relationships.

Expansion isn’t limited to the U.S.; Cane’s is exploring international opportunities in the Middle East, with locations currently in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The thought process here appears to be influenced by adapting to the market needs and conditions of various regions.

Industry outlook

While the future looks promising for Raising Cane’s, the fast-food industry poses challenges that cannot be ignored. Experts suggest that consumer spending habits may remain cautious, and economic uncertainty could impact the chain’s growth trajectories. Nevertheless, many analysts believe that the ongoing fascination with chicken and its versatility may well counterbalance any adverse economic factors.

Industry analysts have projected that per capita chicken consumption in the U.S. will reach 104 pounds by 2025, reflecting a sustained trend that favors chicken-based offerings. Andrew Sharpee, a co-leader at AlixPartners, notes,

“Chicken is still a cheaper alternative compared to beef. It’s a more favorable option for consumers, allowing these companies to execute their menus efficiently.”

This creates a favorable environment for chains focused on chicken.

As Raising Cane’s aligns itself with shifting dietary trends, its model appears well-equipped to sustain its current growth trajectory against a backdrop of competitive and economic challenges. Continually investing in both product quality and expansion metrics will be critical as the landscape transforms over time.

No.	Key Points
1	Raising Cane’s has surpassed KFC in annual U.S. sales, making it the third-largest chicken chain in the country.
2	The chain plans to operate nearly 1,000 restaurants by the end of 2025, focusing on strategic location selection.
3	Cane’s has reported significant increases in system sales, attributed to its straightforward menu and operations.
4	Raising Cane’s maintains a unique operational model by largely avoiding franchising, allowing better control over quality.
5	Despite economic concerns, the chain remains optimistic, riding the wave of ongoing chicken popularity.

Summary

Raising Cane’s has effectively grown into a formidable competitor in the fast-food chicken sector by adhering to its core principles of quality and simplicity. Its remarkable expansion strategy, combined with strong financial performances, positions it favorably against both established leaders like Chick-fil-A and emerging competitors. As the company looks to maintain its growth trajectory through intelligent site selection and a focus on customer experience, the future appears bright for Raising Cane’s, albeit not without challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is Raising Cane’s primary menu item?

Raising Cane’s specializes in chicken fingers, complemented by crinkle-cut fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and their signature dipping sauce.

Question: How does Raising Cane’s differentiate itself from other fast-food chicken chains?

The chain focuses on a simple menu and operates the majority of its locations directly, allowing them to maintain quality and consistency without relying heavily on franchise agreements.

Question: What are Raising Cane’s future growth plans?

The chain aims to operate nearly 1,000 restaurants by the end of 2025, expanding into both domestic and international markets while carefully selecting locations based on community dynamics.

In a significant development in the fast-food industry, private equity firm Roark Capital has announced its acquisition of a majority stake in Dave’s Hot Chicken, a rapidly expanding restaurant chain known for its spicy offerings. Although the financial details of the transaction were not publicly disclosed, CEO Bill Phelps hinted at a valuation nearing $1 billion during a recent television interview. Since its inception in 2017, Dave’s has skyrocketed in popularity, boasting over 300 locations and impressive yearly sales growth, particularly attributed to the increasing demand for chicken-focused dining.

Article Subheadings
1) Roark Capital’s Strategic Acquisition
2) A Recipe for Rapid Growth
3) Understanding the Customer Base
4) Maintaining Quality Amid Expansion
5) Future Prospects and Employee Rewards

Roark Capital’s Strategic Acquisition

On Monday, Roark Capital officially announced its acquisition of a majority stake in Dave’s Hot Chicken, marking a significant moment for both entities. Bill Phelps, the CEO of Dave’s, expressed optimism about the deal’s valuation, which reportedly approaches $1 billion. This acquisition represents Roark’s first foray into restaurant investments since its purchase of Subway earlier this year for $9.6 billion. By investing in a brand with such a burgeoning presence, Roark aims to leverage its operational prowess and global supply chain to create synergies that will bolster the brand’s growth potential.

The move comes at a time when chicken-centric restaurants are thriving, largely influenced by the competitive “Chicken Sandwich Wars,” which began in 2019 and changed the landscape of the fast-food sector. With the rising popularity of quick-service restaurants, especially those focusing on fried chicken, Roark has positioned itself strategically by selecting Dave’s, a brand uniquely poised for further expansion.

A Recipe for Rapid Growth

Since its establishment in a Los Angeles parking lot in 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken has rapidly scaled its operations, expanding to over 300 locations primarily through franchising. The chain reported a staggering 57% growth in U.S. sales last year, surpassing $600 million, as indicated by market research firm Technomic. This significant increase can be attributed to the company’s innovative approach to its menu, which emphasizes spicy options that appeal to a diverse range of consumers.

The rise of Dave’s aligns with a broader trend within the fast-food industry, where younger customers are increasingly seeking bold flavors and spicier food options. The chain’s signature offering, which ranges in heat levels from no spice to the extreme “Reaper,” has garnered attention, even leading to some dramatic customer experiences. The menu’s focus on oversized chicken tenders, which can also be served as sliders, reflects a unique value proposition that caters specifically to consumer preferences.

Understanding the Customer Base

Dave’s Hot Chicken has capitalized on the shifting cravings of its target demographic. The company’s strategy has been to offer a diverse range of spice levels to meet varying customer preferences, including options that demand a signed liability waiver for the spiciest offerings. Arman Oganesyan, co-founder and Chief Business Officer, recounted instances where the spiciness resulted in extreme reactions, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to pushing culinary boundaries.

Moreover, the chain’s systematic focus on a simplified yet appealing menu contributes significantly to its appeal. Instead of overwhelming customers with options, Dave’s prioritizes high-quality ingredients and cooking methods, ensuring that its flagship chicken remains flavorful and consistent across all locations. By observing customer behaviors and preferences, Dave’s has been able to build a loyal fan base that appreciates its unique selling points.

Maintaining Quality Amid Expansion

Despite its rapid expansion, executives at Dave’s Hot Chicken have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the quality of their offerings. The chain’s philosophy centers around sticking to its original vision, rather than adhering to standard industry practices that prioritize speed and lower ingredient costs. Jim Bitticks, Dave’s COO and President, remarked on the importance of not compromising the signature quality that propelled them to recognition in the first place.

Many of the founders remain actively involved in the operations and decision-making processes even after the acquisition, ensuring that the brand’s core values and ethos are upheld. Through strategic initiatives, the company plans to continue refining its offerings while prioritizing customer satisfaction, aiming to strike a balance between quality and efficiency.

Future Prospects and Employee Rewards

With Roark’s support, Dave’s Hot Chicken has set ambitious goals for the future. Bill Phelps foresees potential growth to an astounding 4,000 locations worldwide over the next decade. This expansive vision aims not only to increase market presence but also to establish Dave’s as a formidable player in the global fast-food sector. The partnership with Roark is expected to provide the necessary resources for realizing these aspirations, enhancing operational efficiencies, and reinforcing brand integrity throughout its expansion efforts.

In addition to growth plans, the company has implemented a rewarding structure for its employees, inspired by the success of the business. Phelps envisions sharing the financial benefits of the company’s achievements with its workforce, attributing this to his goal of empowering employees. As a result, numerous team members have transitioned into millionaire status, thanks to a well-structured bonus initiative that acknowledges their hard work and dedication to the brand.

No.	Key Points
1	Roark Capital has purchased a majority stake in Dave’s Hot Chicken, nearly valuing the company at $1 billion.
2	Dave’s has grown significantly since its inception, with over 300 locations and $600 million in sales last year.
3	The chain’s unique offerings and focus on varying heat levels appeal to younger consumers seeking bold flavors.
4	Dave’s commitment to maintaining quality has been emphasized despite rapid growth and expansion ambitions.
5	Employee success is acknowledged through a rewarding structure resulting in the creation of several millionaires among staff.

Summary

The acquisition of a majority stake in Dave’s Hot Chicken by Roark Capital showcases the growing allure of chicken-focused dining in today’s fast-food landscape. With impressive growth statistics and a unique approach to their customer base, Dave’s is set to maintain its quality while pursuing rapid expansion. The partnership with Roark not only signifies further operational development but also reflects an innovative commitment to rewarding employees, making it clear that both business growth and staff welfare are priorities for the brand moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is Dave’s Hot Chicken known for?

Dave’s Hot Chicken is renowned for its spicy chicken offerings, including a range of heat levels from mild to extremely spicy, making it a favorite among younger consumers looking for bold flavors.

Question: How has the acquisition by Roark Capital impacted Dave’s Hot Chicken?

The acquisition by Roark Capital is expected to enhance Dave’s operational capabilities, provide resources for expansion, and enable the chain to maintain its focus on quality while growing its global presence.

Question: What initiatives has Dave’s implemented for its employees?

Dave’s Hot Chicken has rolled out significant bonuses for its employees, recognizing their contributions to the company’s success. This initiative has resulted in many staff members becoming millionaires, reflecting the brand’s commitment to rewarding hard work and dedication.

A recent incident in Kocaeli, Turkey, has alarmed health officials as over 600 individuals fell ill due to food poisoning from tainted chicken döner consumed at a local restaurant. The Kocaeli Governor’s Office confirmed that 648 people sought medical help, showcasing symptoms like nausea and vomiting, as investigations took a critical turn leading to the restaurant’s closure and the arrest of its owners. This incident underscores growing concerns around food safety violations in the poultry sector, prompting experts to warn about the potential dangers linked to contaminated meat.

Article Subheadings
1) Rising Number of Food Poisoning Cases in Kocaeli
2) Immediate Actions by Health Authorities
3) Legal Consequences for Restaurant Owners
4) Health Risks Associated with Poultry Contamination
5) Calls for Stricter Food Safety Regulations

Rising Number of Food Poisoning Cases in Kocaeli

In the early part of this week, authorities in the northwestern province of Kocaeli reported a concerning surge in food poisoning cases linked to chicken döner served in the Körfez district. Specifically, a total of 648 individuals experienced acute symptoms, including nausea, fever, and vomiting, prompting immediate medical attention. Of these, 646 have since been discharged from local hospitals, with two young children remaining under care at a private facility due to their more critical condition.

Foodborne illness cases have seen a troubling upward trend nationwide, with Turkey’s health officials advocating for increased awareness and vigilance regarding food hygiene and safety, especially in street food outlets. Local residents have expressed concerns, reflecting fears about the safety of consuming widely popular yet potentially risky options like chicken döner, particularly from unregulated or poorly managed establishments.

Immediate Actions by Health Authorities

Following reports of widespread illness, the Kocaeli Governor’s Office took prompt action to mitigate further risk. Health officials from the Körfez District Health Directorate dispatched food safety teams to the implicated restaurant. Upon inspection, teams collected samples of the chicken döner for laboratory analysis, which revealed contamination inconsistent with Turkey’s Food Codex Microbiological Criteria Regulation.

The revelations led to swift action, with the restaurant being sealed by the Körfez Municipality to prevent further sales. Health authorities urge anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming food from the establishment to seek medical assistance. This preventative measure aimed to contain the incidents and prevent a larger outbreak from occurring

Legal Consequences for Restaurant Owners

In light of the investigation findings, authorities have launched legal proceedings against the restaurant and its owners, identified as K.Y. and E.T.. Following their detainment, they were officially arrested by a local court under charges related to serious food safety violations. This enforcement action highlights a commitment from local officials to uphold food safety standards and take decisive steps against those who jeopardize public health.

This case serves as a cautionary tale for many food vendors who may disregard essential health practices. With stringent penalties enforced, especially in the wake of a significant public health crisis, it remains crucial for restaurants to prioritize food safety checks and adhere to regulatory standards to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Health Risks Associated with Poultry Contamination

The incident has drawn attention to broader health risks associated with poultry consumption, particularly when sourced from unregulated vendors. Gastroenterology specialist, Prof. Dr. Vedat Göral, highlighted the dangers posed by foodborne illnesses, indicating that universally favored dishes like chicken döner are often linked to pathogens including Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Clostridium perfringens. Such bacteria can lead to severe health complications, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

Concerns are growing within the medical community regarding the prevalent issue of sanitary negligence among street food vendors. In instances of cost-cutting and profit maximization, unregulated markets sometimes resort to hazardous practices, including the use of bleaches to mask meat spoilage. Prof. Göral described these practices as a severe public health risk, equating them to “attempted murder.” The alarming implications of such practices reinforce calls for regulatory oversight and awareness regarding food sourcing and preparation standards to protect consumers.

Calls for Stricter Food Safety Regulations

The unsettling incident in Kocaeli has reignited discussions around the need for stronger food safety regulations in Turkey’s food industry. While local officials have acted decisively regarding this specific case, experts argue that this incident should prompt a nationwide reevaluation of food safety policies. Advocates emphasize that establishments serving food must adhere to strict safety guidelines to prevent further health crises.

Stakeholders in the food service industry, including policymakers and regulatory bodies, must collaborate to enhance food safety measures. Recommendations include routine inspections, mandatory reporting of foodborne illness, and training for food handlers regarding hygiene standards. Strengthening these frameworks can foster a safer environment for consumers, ensuring that the risk of foodborne illness is drastically reduced.

No.	Key Points
1.	Over 600 people were hospitalized due to food poisoning after eating tainted chicken döner in Kocaeli.
2.	Health authorities inspected the restaurant, finding contamination in the chicken döner.
3.	Restaurant owners K.Y. and E.T. were arrested and face legal charges related to food safety violations.
4.	Experts warn about the health risks of contaminated poultry, emphasizing the seriousness of food safety violations.
5.	There are calls for stricter regulatory measures to improve overall food safety practices in Turkey.

Summary

The distressing situation in Kocaeli involving food poisoning highlights the critical importance of food safety and regulatory oversight in Turkey. As health officials continue to address the fallout from the incident, it becomes increasingly apparent that thorough inspections and stringent enforcement of food safety laws are essential to protecting public health. The public’s growing awareness, alongside calls for reform, may serve as a catalyst for change in the way food safety is managed across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are the symptoms of food poisoning?

Common symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Symptoms can vary based on the type of contamination and individual health factors.

Question: What regulatory measures are in place for food safety in Turkey?

Turkey has implemented various food safety regulations under its Food Codex, which includes guidelines for food handling, preparation, and hygiene standards aimed at ensuring public health and safety.

Question: Why is chicken döner considered at risk for contamination?

Chicken döner is often prepared in large quantities and sold in less-regulated environments, making it susceptible to mishandling and cross-contamination, particularly if proper hygiene practices are not followed during preparation and cooking.

A breakthrough in global efforts to solve cold cases has been achieved, with Interpol successfully identifying a Paraguayan woman found deceased in Spain back in 2018. The victim, previously known only as “the woman in the chicken coop,” has been identified as Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima. This marks a significant milestone in Interpol’s ongoing “Identify Me” campaign, which aims to uncover the identities of over 40 women whose remains have been discovered across six European countries over the past decades.

The identification of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima not only brings closure to her family but also offers hope to many other victims whose identities remain unknown. Interpol emphasized that this case marks the first successful transcontinental identification in their campaign, shedding light on the broader implications of their work to help families reconnect with their lost loved ones.

The plight of unidentified victims has been particularly highlighted by the names by which they are referred—often tied to distinguishing features or the circumstances of their death, such as “the woman with the flower tattoo” or “the woman in the suitcase.” With this new advancement, authorities can now address these cases with greater sensitivity and compassion.

Article Subheadings
1) Overview of the Campaign and Identification
2) Details Surrounding Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima’s Case
3) The Role of Family in the Identification Process
4) Ongoing Challenges in Unidentified Cases
5) Future of the “Identify Me” Campaign

Overview of the Campaign and Identification

Interpol’s “Identify Me” campaign is an innovative initiative aimed at addressing the tragic reality of unidentified victims across Europe. Launched with the purpose of restoring identity and dignity to deceased individuals who remain nameless, this worldwide campaign has gathered significant momentum since its inception. This campaign particularly focuses on women, many of whom were found under distressing conditions without any means of identification. The effort seeks to engage the public in helping law enforcement agencies to connect personal stories back to the victims, preserving their dignity even in death.

The campaign generated substantial awareness, not merely through social media engagement but also by connecting multiple countries’ law enforcement agencies. In 2023, Interpol highlighted their first success with the identification of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima, marking a significant achievement in their mission to name the nameless and provide answers to grieving families who have suffered for too long without knowing the fate of their loved ones.

Details Surrounding Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima’s Case

The tragic story of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima commences with her disappearance in 2013. Her brother reported her missing in 2019 after she left Paraguay for Spain. The circumstances surrounding her death are equally murky; she was found hanged on a rural farm in Girona, northeastern Spain, in August 2018. At the time of her discovery, there were no personal effects that could help identify her, which complicated the investigation.

While her family mourned her absence, local residents and farm employees had no information about her identity or origins. It wasn’t until Interpol’s renewed appeal in 2023 that Paraguayan authorities made a breakthrough. In March of the following year, a match was established when her fingerprints linked to those in Paraguay’s records, confirming her identity. This identification exemplifies the campaign’s goal of connecting families and providing closure after years of uncertainty.

The Role of Family in the Identification Process

Family members often play a crucial role in identification efforts. In the case of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima, her brother’s commitment to seeking justice and answers has proven invaluable. The pain and uncertainty that families endure when a loved one goes missing can be unbearable, compounded by the need to confront legal and bureaucratic processes in foreign countries.

Family involvement was particularly significant in this instance, where the brother reported her disappearance and assisted investigators by providing personal details about her last known whereabouts. This collaboration between families and law enforcement is critical in expediting the identification process and ensuring that victims are not just forgotten statistics, but are recognized individuals with real-life stories and ties to their communities.

Ongoing Challenges in Unidentified Cases

Despite this recent success, the challenges in addressing unidentified cases remains formidable. Interpol’s campaign highlights that there are still 45 cases in their “Identify Me” files that have yet to be solved. The reasons for such cases vary; some victims remain unidentified due to lack of physical evidence, while others may be non-local individuals whose local environments may not recognize them due to language barriers or cultural differences.

Moreover, many unidentified remains are often attributed to criminal activity, complicating investigations further. The anonymity of victims can hinder efforts to engage the public, as the trauma associated with these cases can make communities hesitant to discuss such matters openly.

Future of the “Identify Me” Campaign

Looking forward, the “Identify Me” campaign is poised to continue its critical work in unique ways. Interpol has indicated that they will persist in merging forensic advances, public engagement, and international cooperation among member nations to tackle these cold cases effectively.

Their outreach efforts have been complemented with digital campaigns aimed at raising awareness, and leveraging social media to mobilize public participation. There are plans to further educate communities on the need for vigilance and compassion towards missing cases, with a goal to break the stigma surrounding unidentified deaths.

The successful identification of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima serves as an inspiration and reinforcement for similar cases, proving that through persistence and collaborative efforts, solutions can be found. The road to fully recognizing and restoring identities to all unidentified victims remains long, but with strategic initiatives like “Identify Me,” there is hope for families still seeking answers.

No.	Key Points
1	Interpol successfully identified Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima, a victim found in Spain in 2018.
2	This case marks the first successful transcontinental identification under the “Identify Me” campaign.
3	The campaign aims to re-establish identities for over 40 unidentified women across Europe.
4	Family involvement is crucial in the identification process, providing necessary context and information.
5	Despite successes, numerous cases remain unresolved due to various challenges in identification.

Summary

The identification of Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima serves as a beacon of hope and highlights the importance of persistent efforts in the quest for truth regarding cold cases. As Interpol continues its mission to restore dignity to victims and provide closure for families, challenges remain evident in the identification of many other lives lost. Through increased awareness and international collaboration, it is hoped that more unidentified individuals can be recognized, allowing families to reunite with their loved ones or find solace in knowing the truth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the “Identify Me” campaign?

The “Identify Me” campaign is an initiative by Interpol aimed at helping to identify unidentified victims, particularly women who have been found deceased across various European countries.

Question: How was Ainoha Izaga Ibieta Lima identified?

Her identification came after Paraguayan authorities matched her fingerprints, obtained from Spain, with records in their database, which occurred after Interpol launched an appeal in 2023.

Question: Why is family involvement significant in these unidentified cases?

Family involvement is vital as they can provide crucial information about the missing persons, aiding law enforcement in the identification process and ensuring that victims are recognized as individuals with personal stories.