What's your job title at AVP and how would you describe what you do here?
I currently hold the position of Homicide Preliminary Hearing Coordinator with Families of Murder Victims. I assist families by being a liaison between victims' families and prosecutors, detectives and others. I will reach out to families and let them know that there is a preliminary hearing coming up in their loved ones case and what to expect. I am available to answer questions for them and hold their hand through the preliminary hearing process. The goal is to never let them feel like they are alone in this.
Why did you decide to get into victim services?
Being in victim services is probably one of the most fulfilling fields to find yourself in. For me it began as an internship with FMV. That internship changed my life and I knew this was the field for me. You help victims & families of victims navigate through some of the toughest times in their lives & that in itself is the most rewarding feeling. I'm very proud of the work I do.
What part of your job means the most to you?
Making sure families are aware of what’s going on in their loved ones case at all times is probably one of the most important aspects of my job. You can never predict or control the outcome of a case but you can make sure you are always there for the family should they need anything or have any questions.
Is there anything you'd like to focus more of your effort toward as you further define your role here?
I’d like to create a network of different victim service agencies around the country. Victims families are not always local. Services should be available to families regardless of where they live.