Our Story
Justice for Murdered Children (JFMC) was established in 1996 by LaWanda Hawkins. LaWanda’s profound motivation came from the tragic loss of her own son, Reginald, who was murdered in December 1995. The pain of her personal experience led her to create JFMC with the assistance of attorney Frank, a colleague from Century City, California. LaWanda, along with fellow parents in South Central Los Angeles who had also lost children to murder, recognized the unsettling reality that their cases were often going unresolved and their voices were marginalized within the criminal justice system. United by a shared desire for change, they founded JFMC to fill this void and bring support, justice, and a sense of community to families facing the aftermath of such profound loss.
Through collaborative efforts and dedication, JFMC has evolved into a beacon of hope, advocacy, and empowerment for families impacted by murder. Our mission is to assist, empower, and educate families, bridge the gaps in the criminal justice system, advocate for victims’ rights, and work towards a future with reduced violence and enhanced support for affected communities.
This founding story exemplifies the resilience and determination that drive JFMC’s commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have suffered unimaginable losses due to murder.
Our Mission
Is to bring justice and healing to families of murdered children. We strive to create a world where no family has to bear the pain of losing a loved one to violence. Our efforts are dedicated to:
Assisting, empowering, and educating families who have experienced the tragic loss of a child to murder.
Empowering and educating communities to understand the profound impact of murder and the importance of standing together against violence.
Bridging the gap between first responders, law enforcement, politicians, the judicial system, and the community by providing support, empowerment, and education to families of murdered victims.
Joining the fight to reduce gun violence through advocacy, education, and empowerment.
Serving as advocates for the rights of murdered victims, their families, and advocating for justice.
We are committed to creating a future where compassion, understanding, and action prevail, leading us to a safer, more just society for all.”
Our Goals
Guidance and Support: Assist families of murdered victims in navigating the legal system, providing them with resources, counseling, and a supportive community during their difficult journey.
Advocacy for Victim’s Rights: Advocate for the restoration and enhancement of victim’s rights in California by actively participating in statewide initiatives, policy discussions, and legislative efforts.
Community Awareness and Education: Increase public awareness and educate communities about the unique challenges faced by murdered victims and their families, fostering compassion and a deeper understanding.
Holistic Support Network: Develop strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and community organizations to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the practical, emotional, and legal needs of families affected by murdered.
Financial Support for Change: Raise essential funds to drive our organization’s mission and initiatives forward, allowing us to make a tangible impact in the lives of families and advocate effectively.
Continuous Improvement: Commit to the ongoing evaluation and enhancement of our programs and services, ensuring that we remain responsive to the evolving needs of families who have lost a loved one to violence.
Cultivating Empathy: Create a culture of empathy and understanding, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by families of murdered victims and championing their right to support, justice, and remembrance.
Through these goals, we are dedicated to bringing healing, justice, and positive change to families and communities affected by the devastating impact of murder. Together, we can pave the way for a safer, more compassionate future.
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The Need-why we have to exist
Tragically, every day, countless individuals around the world fall victim to murder, causing immeasurable pain and loss to their families and communities. Addressing this issue requires a collective effort to promote awareness, advocate for change, and support the victims’ families in their journey towards healing and justice. If you’re looking to convey this message on your website or in your organization’s materials, here’s a way to express it:
“Every Single Day: A Stark Reality”
It’s a somber truth that every single day, lives are forever altered by the harrowing impact of murder. Behind every statistic lies a story of pain, loss, and shattered dreams. Families, friends, and entire communities are left grappling with grief, seeking answers, and striving for justice.
At Justice for Murdered Children, we recognize the urgency of addressing this pressing issue. Our mission is to stand alongside those affected by murder, providing support, resources, and a platform for change. Through advocacy, awareness initiatives, and fostering a sense of community, we’re committed to making a positive impact in the lives of victims’ families and working towards a safer, more just society.
Join us in acknowledging this stark reality and turning it into a rallying cry for action. Together, we can offer solace, drive change, and work towards a future where the devastating impact of murder is reduced, and every life is valued and protected.”
The key is to acknowledge the reality while emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to make a difference.
Become a Volunteer Today
Our volunteers are the heart and soul of our work. And opportunities to volunteer are growing right along with us. If you are interested in being a part of JFMC through our volunteer program, we’d love to help you find the right fit.
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By joining us, you become a valued member of an organization that has garnered praise and endorsements from community and religious leaders, esteemed state, local, and national elected officials, as well as leading judicial professionals.