Atlanta Victim Assistance, Inc.

Last week, AVA advocates were honored to attend an Atlanta City Council meeting recognizing Travis Head for his courageous actions in coming to the aid of a young victim during a violent assault. His actions enabled the victim was able to escape to safety and likely prevented further harm or escalation of violence.

The recognition was a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in a moment of crisis. It was also a meaningful opportunity for our advocates to stand alongside the victim's family as they shared their gratitude for the support they've received from AVA.

We see every day how healing happens when people show up for one another. Whether it's a bystander who steps in, an advocate who provides support, or a community that surrounds survivors with care, this is what community looks like.

Today we honor and celebrate fathers.

We know that crime and violence can impact entire families. Especially on Father's Day we recognize the fathers who show up for their loved ones through difficult circumstances. We also recognize those who are spending this day carrying the loss of a father or child due to violence. We remain committed to supporting those individuals and families as they navigate grief and healing.

Today, we recognize . Also known as Freedom Day, today is a powerful reminder of the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

At Atlanta Victim Assistance, we believe every person deserves to be treated with dignity, supported in times of crisis, and given the opportunity to heal and move forward. As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, we also recognize the importance of continuing to build safer, more equitable communities where all individuals can thrive.

🏃‍♀️👟 It's back!

Join us for the 3rd Annual Lacing Up Against Domestic Violence 5K Run & Walk on Sunday, Oct. 11, in beautiful Grant Park.

Whether you're running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, you'll be helping raise awareness and support for survivors of domestic violence in our community.

✅ Registration is now open
✅ Early bird pricing ends July 31
✅ Sponsorship opportunities are available

Visit atlantava.org/5k to register, become a sponsor, or learn more.

We can't wait to lace up with you again this October! 💜

Big news for victims and survivors in Fulton County!

Recently, community leaders, advocates, and partners gathered to recognize the passage and signing of House Bill 1283, legislation which paves the way for Family Justice Centers across Georgia.

Family Justice Centers bring advocates, law enforcement, prosecutors, counselors, and community organizations together under one roof to provide coordinated, compassionate, and victim-centered services for survivors and their families.

We are excited about the planned opening of the Fulton County Family Justice Center in 2027 and look forward to being part of this important effort. As a longtime advocate for crime victims, AVA is committed to helping ensure survivors have access to the resources and pathways to healing that they need and deserve.

Grieving the loss of a loved one to homicide can be an isolating experience, but you don't have to navigate it alone.

AVA's Homicide Support Group provides a safe, supportive space for family members to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of loss due to violence.

This month, participants will also hear from HOPEHustlers, a community-based violence prevention initiative dedicated to supporting young people and building safer communities. Their team will share how they are working to help prevent violence and create positive opportunities for youth.

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one to homicide, we invite you to learn more and sign up to receive information about upcoming meetings: atlantava.org/events

AVA Executive Director Shontel Brunson-Wright was honored to join Rep. Lucy McBath in Washington, D.C., for a Congressional hearing focused on gun violence prevention and community safety.

Held on National Gun Violence Awareness Day last Friday, the hearing brought together leaders from across the country to discuss how victim services, community-based programs, and collaborative partnerships can help reduce violence and support survivors.

We are grateful for the opportunity to share the experiences of the victims and families we serve every day and to highlight AVA's critical role in building safer communities.

Thank you to Congresswoman McBath for convening this important conversation and for her continued commitment to supporting victims and families impacted by violence.

Our team wore orange today in recognition of National Gun Violence Awareness Day. 🧡

We wear orange to honor those whose lives have been impacted by gun violence, support survivors and their families, and raise awareness about an issue that affects far too many communities.

Today and every day, we remain committed to supporting victims and working toward safer communities.

June is Gun Violence Awareness Month, and tomorrow, June 5th, we invite you to join us in wearing orange for National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

At AVA, we see firsthand the devastating impact of gun violence. We also know that awareness, education, prevention, and support all play a role in creating safer communities.

Wear orange tomorrow to honor lives impacted by gun violence.