Victims' Rights Week kicks focus on awareness, services

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The community is coming together this week to help and to remember the victims of crime during Jacksonville's 38th annual Victims' Rights Week.

Mayor Alvin Brown joined Monday with members of law enforcement, victim advocates, crime victims and their families, to launch this week's events designed to raise awareness of services and programs available to help victims.

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Organizers say it's also about sticking together.

"If we stand together, nothing can divide us," said Nicoa Garrett, chairwoman of Victims' Rights Week. "If we keep their legacies alive; if we keep praying for their families, for the healing and peace to take place, we can't lose."

Schedule of events for Victims' Rights Week:

  • Tuesday, 9-11 a.m. - Main Library Auditorium, 303 N. Laura Street
    Free seminar titled "Long-Term Impacts of Mental Health and Life Beyond Trauma on Victims" will be presented by the VAAC. Participants are asked to begin registering on location at 8:30 a.m. in the auditorium of the Downtown Main Library.
  • Tuesday, noon-1:30 p.m. - Main Library Multi-Purpose Room, 303 N. Laura Street
    Victims' Rights Week Annual Awards Luncheon is open to the public. Tickets are $30 and tables are $300. Please contact Thelma Jackson at 904-630-7103 for information and registration. Awards are presented in five categories: Courageous Victim, Outstanding Victim Advocate, Judicial Victim Advocate, Law Enforcement Victim Advocate and Media.
  • Thursday, 5:30 p.m. - Hemming Plaza, 135 Monroe Street West
    Candlelight Vigil sponsored by Compassionate Families and members of the VAAC to honor victims of violent crime and homicide. The goal of the event is to bring awareness and allow families of victims to honor their loved ones.