Hope for Victims is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization based in Knoxville, TN, that was formed to help families and victims of violent crimes. Our shared grief gives us a connection to each other that creates a bridge of understanding and compassion! We are here for each other to share memories and experiences, to vent and ask questions, and to give each other friendship, support and HOPE.
Our Mission Statement
Our shared grief gives us a connection to each other that creates a bridge of understanding and compassion. We are here for each other to share memories and experiences, to vent and ask questions, and to give each other friendship, support, and HOPE!
We advocate for aid in the prevention of crime.
Helping Others
Helping others plays a major role in our organization, and allows us to provide support to family and friends who have experienced similar experiences with violent crime.
To Persevere
To persevere means to continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty. Our organization will stand by your side during those difficult moments.
Encouraging Them Along The Way
We are here for each other to share memories and experiences, to vent and ask questions, and to give each other friendship, support and HOPE.
HOPE for Victims was founded by Mike and Joan Berry after the 2004 murder of their daughter Johnia Berry.
HOPE’s purpose is fourfold:
- Speaking on behalf of victims’ rights
- Providing support groups for families and friends of victims
- Advocating for legislation to promote DNA collection
- Increasing public awareness in order to balance the scales of justice
Hope for Victims offers hope for today, and a brighter, safer tomorrow

Board Members
Joan Berry
Founder/President
LaVerne Craig
Survivor/Treasurer
Remonda Swafford-Alleyne
Secretary/Advocate
Jill Walker
Survivor/Advocate
Sally Sommerville
Survivor/Advocate
Carrie McCollum
Survivor/Chief Growth Officer
Brad Hall
Advocate/Knoxville Sheriff's Office