Conroe - Texans for Equal Justice, a statewide non-profit crime victim advocacy organization based in Montgomery County, announces the beginning of their “Circle of Friends” Peer Support Group for survivors of homicide victims in Montgomery County and surrounding counties..  The Peer Support Group will meet the third Monday of each month beginning January 19^th.  The Support Group meeting will run from 6:30 - 9:00 P.M.  The “Circle of Friends” Peer Support Group is open to those who have lost a loved one to homicide, and who are wanting the fellowship of other survivors with similar experiences.  For the purposes of this group, the word “homicide” is used for all survivors who have lost a loved one to a violent crime such as murder, DWI, manslaughter, etc. Trained volunteer peer leaders facilitate the group meetings.  Meeting format will include an educational component addressing relevant issues and topics.

“There are certain experiences that are unique to survivors of homicide victims.  Nobody can understand these experiences better than somebody else who has “been there”, stated Joy Triplett, a registered nurse and member of the group.  “The “Circle of Friends” Peer Support Group offers an emotionally safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment that allows survivors to share their experiences, to learn from and to support each other”, stated Triplett.  “Things change after a loved one is murdered.  Friends and family members sort of shy away from you. They may feel unequipped to help you, and afraid they may do or say something to make you feel worse”, Triplett further stated.  “Whatever the reason, survivors often feel alienated.  Circle of Friends will help lessen feelings of alienation by having a group of people to call upon for help, information and support.”

“In a recent survey conducted by Texans for Equal Justice, survivors of homicide victims stressed the need and importance of being able to get support from other survivors, and to be able to return that support”, stated Janice Sager, executive director of the organization.  “Many stated that it was essential to be able to share their experiences, express their feelings honestly and to be themselves without being criticized, judged, or told how they should or shouldn’t feel”, stated Sager.  “In response to the needs stated in the survey,  the Circle of Friends Peer Support Group will provide support, encouragement, information and “tools” to assist survivors of homicide victims with their own emotional healing, and ultimately empowering them to help others”.


For further information and meeting location, contact Texans for Equal Justice at (936) 537-3676 or toll-free at 1-877-592-1007.