April 9, 2009
9:15 a.m.
ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center is hosting the "Annual Victims' Rights Week Candle-Lighting Ceremony", Thursday, April 30, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Squirrel Ridge Park (1603 SW Williston Rd., Gainesville). This event is free and open to the public. This year's national theme for Victims' Rights Week is "25 Years of Rebuilding Lives".
"Over 30 years ago, Alachua County was on the forefront of a national movement to recognize the impact crime has on the victim's life, and that victims should have a voice in the criminal justice system." said Laura Kalt, Alachua County Community Education & Risk Reduction Coordinator. "This year when we gather in the park, we will honor and remember the lives lost and the families forever changed by violence, and we will honor the work Alachua County has done to support them".
In addition to the candle-lighting ceremony, family members can participate in tile painting. These tiles then become part of a permanent installation in the park. The Alachua County Sheriff's Office will provide free child fingerprinting. This is for family records, in case a child is ever missing.
For more information, please call Laura Kalt (Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center) at 352-264-6760.
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