Initiatives and Events

June 8, 2025

Honoring Lives Lost: Join Us for a Rally Against Gun ViolenceNational Gun Violence Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the devastating impact gun violence has on our communities and families. It’s a time to honor those we’ve lost and to push for change that can bring about safety and healing. In this spirit, M.A.R.C.U.S. invites you to join us for a Rally and Press Conference on June 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Union County Judicial Center Court. We encourage everyone to wear orange, symbolizing our commitment to reducing gun violence, and to bring orange balloons to release as a tribute to those we’ve lost. We also ask that you bring a pair of shoes and a photo of your loved one to display. Their stories and memories are powerful reminders that they are more than just numbers—they are cherished individuals whose absence affects us all. Together, we can make a substantial impact by honoring the lives lost and advocating for change. Please join M.A.R.C.U.S. for this significant event as we raise our voices for awareness and action. Your presence matters!

National Gun Violence Rally

Union County Homicide Support Group Meeting

June 19, 2025

We are here to support each other in our journeys of healing. M.A.R.C.U.S. invites you to join us on June 19th from 6 PM to 8 PM at South Piedmont Community College, 4209 Old Charlotte Highway, Building A, room 1601, Monroe, NC. This meeting is a safe and nurturing space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others who understand the profound impact of loss. It offers a supportive and welcoming environment for you to express your thoughts and emotions alongside those who truly understand the deep effects of loss. We look forward to seeing you there.

Thursday, May 15, 2025

M.A.R.C.U.S. — Mothers Advocating for Real Change and Unwavering Support — proudly invites you to the Union County inaugural Homicide Victims Support Group Meeting, taking place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. This special gathering aims to create a safe and compassionate space for mothers who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a loved one to violence. Join us as we come together to share our stories, find strength in each other’s experiences, and access valuable resources. We are excited to welcome several special guests who will offer insights and support during this heartfelt evening: Indian Trail's Major David Cohn and members from the Union County District Attorney's Office: District Attorney Trey Robison and Chief Assistant District Attorney Mary Beth Usher. Their presence will greatly enrich our gathering, and we look forward to their valuable contributions.This is an in-person gathering, and we encourage you to register online to secure your spot. Please click on this link to register. Together, we will foster a community built on understanding, resilience, and hope. Your presence is vital, and we look forward to meeting you and beginning this healing journey together.

Union County NC Homicide Support Groups

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

M.A.R.C.U.S. - Mothers Advocating for Real Change and Unwavering Support. Join us for our annual Advocacy Day as we unite with Moms Demand Action, Everytown for Gun Safety, and advocates from across North Carolina to urge our lawmakers to reject dangerous permitless carry legislation. On April 16th, we will gather at First Presbyterian Church to prepare for a day of impactful action. Then we’ll head to the Legislative Building to meet with legislators and advocate for the passage of common-sense gun laws. The day will include a rally, a press conference, and direct meetings with lawmakers to ensure our voices are heard loud and clear. Your participation is essential to making a difference!

Programs and Services

Programs and Services Offered by M.A.R.C.U.S

Emotional Support Services

Support Groups: Regularly scheduled support group meetings where mothers can share their experiences, find comfort in community, and receive guidance from trained facilitators.

Legal Resources: Providing access to legal information and resources for mothers navigating the justice system, including workshops on how to advocate for their rights effectively.

Daily Meals Program: Offering daily meals to families during trial durations, alleviating some of the logistical burdens so they can focus on attending court proceedings and supporting each other during difficult times.

Memorial and Remembrance Programs

Memorial Events:

Organizing community memorial ceremonies that honor the memory of children lost to violence, allowing families to celebrate their lives and foster healing

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week:

This week is not only about acknowledging the pain that comes from loss but also about celebrating their lives and advocating for the rights of all victims.

Advocacy and Outreach

Community Awareness Campaigns: Organizing events and initiatives to educate the public about the impact of violence on families and advocate for systemic changes that protect victim rights.

Legislative Advocacy: Working with lawmakers to influence policies and legislation that support victims’ rights and enhance community safety.

Community Collaboration

Partnerships with Local Organizations: Collaborating with other nonprofits, law enforcement, and community service organizations to create a cohesive support network for families and advocate for change.

Get Involved