April 21, 2025
KETTERING, MD – On Saturday, April 19, 2025, Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center (MCVRC) hosted its 4th Annual Make a Difference Walk & Resource Fair, bringing together survivors, families, advocates, and community members to honor, connect, and heal. Even as House Bill 853 remains on Governor Wes Moore’s desk awaiting signature, Maryland’s victim community showed up with strength and hope to continue honoring the lives of their loved ones.
This event wraps up National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, an annual observance in April that aims to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights and services, honor victims and survivors, and celebrate the accomplishments of the victims’ rights movement. MCVRC received grants from the National Crime Victim Rights Week Community Awareness Project and the Maryland Bar. The event provided opportunities for participants to explore healing resources, including the Healing Garden Pavilion and Memory Wall, designed to foster a sense of connection and support.
Participants had the option of a 3.1-mile walk or a 1-mile “Memory” Walk, each one winding through a moving tribute of remembrance and resilience. The Healing Garden Pavilion and Memory Wall served as focal points of reflection, where attendees shared messages and honored memories of their loved ones.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who showed up and stood with us,” said Joanna Mupanduki, Deputy Director at MCVRC. “The turnout and energy this year demonstrated the strength that comes from kinship and community support.”
Thank you to those who sponsored our event: Trollinger Law, The Langbein Family Trust, Sam’s Club, and Walmart and thanks to Weis for donated food and drinks and WaWa for donated water.
Part of the event is focused on learning about resources available to victims of crime. Some resources in attendance were Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office, , Prince George’s County Family Justice Center, University of Maryland Medical Systems (Violence Intervention Program and Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center), MCASA, Constructing & Empowering A Womens Journey, House of Ruth Maryland, Pro Bono Counseling, Safe at Home, Maryland National Capital Park Police, SAMU First Response, Prince George’s Sheriff’s Office, CCSI Community Crisis Services Inc, Amara Legal, and Josha Cunningham.
MCVRC plans to continue this event next year for it’s 5th year. Mark your calendars now and follow them on their social media or subscribe to their newsletter!