Witness Justice

Witness Justice is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support services to survivors of violent crime across the country. Founded by Helga West and Randy West, the organization aims to bridge the gap in victim services and ensure that all victims have access to support during the healing and criminal justice processes.

History and Mission

Witness Justice was established with the goal of addressing the disparities in victim support services across different communities. The founders recognized that many victims of violent crimes do not report their experiences, making them ineligible for public victim services. Witness Justice fills this gap by offering support 24 hours a day, regardless of the location or circumstances of the crime.

The organization promotes healing and connection among survivors through various initiatives. It maintains a virtual community where victims can connect and share their experiences. Additionally, Witness Justice hosts a section called "Stories Like Yours" on their platform, sharing diverse survivor stories to illustrate that healing can manifest differently for everyone.

Services

Witness Justice provides a range of services, including an expert corps of volunteers. These volunteers, who are professionals in fields such as mental health, security, psychology, and criminal justice, assist victims by answering specific inquiries and offering guidance.

Impact and Recognition

Despite being operated solely by volunteers, Witness Justice has gained recognition and trust from law enforcement and state attorney offices, who now refer victims to the organization. Its services have attracted hundreds of victims seeking support and consultation.

Leadership and Founders

Helga West, one of the co-founders, is a recognized expert in trauma-informed approaches and advocacy for survivors of violence and trauma. She led Witness Justice's efforts from its inception until 2014, focusing on fostering positive social change through strategic programs and training.

Notable Achievements

Witness Justice has made a significant impact on the lives of survivors by providing accessible support and resources. Although it started with limited resources, the organization has managed to reach a wide audience, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing victim services across the U.S.