Staff Writer
Justice Coalition continues mission with fundraiser
In what’s become its largest annual fundraiser, the Justice Coalition hosted more than 300 supporters Wednesday for its 8th Annual “Together We Can” campaign and breakfast — and the reasons behind the victims rights group were heard firsthand.
Attendees, including dozens of public safety, legal and government officials, heard three emotional stories behind how the organization assisted them in times of need.
Marie Griffis, grandmother of missing Haleigh Cummings; Phillip Bowling, grandfather of slain Somer Thompson; and Alexander Lemon, a teenager who turned his life around, all relayed stories of how Justice Coalition Executive Director Ann Dugger and her staff assisted them during their darkest hours to persevere through challenges brought upon by crime.
“They were there to help us,” said Griffis. “Without her (Ann Dugger), I wouldn’t have known what to do.”
Stories like the ones relayed at the function and the thousands more untold are why the organization is critical in the public safety process, said Sheriff John Rutherford, who was one of many Northeast Florida public safety officials in attendance.
“This is why the Justice Coalition is so critical to this community,” said Rutherford. “They are a guiding light ... a harbor of safety.”
Each of the three received standing ovations after relaying their stories. The common theme between each was the victims of crime were all children or teenagers, which are the most challenging cases of all, said Dugger. The organization provides everything from crisis counseling and victims rights education to court assistance and crime public awareness. To date, the organization has had a hand in catching 1,860 fugitives and finding 165 missing persons.
None of it could be possible, said Dugger, without support similar to what was in abundance Wednesday.
“It’s because of you,” said Dugger.
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