Trauma Informed, Faith Based, Victim Centered

  Jacquel Brown, Founder/Owner

**Turning It Around** was formed out of a deep personal loss and a burning desire to make a difference. After the tragic murder of my son, Alexander (Slugger), in September 2012, and my grandson Lagarius Morris (G-Baby) 2017. I knew I had to do something to help other families who were experiencing the same pain and confusion. Losing a child to violence leaves a devastating impact, and I wanted to ensure that no other family had to go through it alone.

The idea behind **Turning It Around** is to create a nonprofit organization that offers a comprehensive support system for victims of violent crime and their families. Through advocacy, community outreach, and emotional support, I aim to help people turn their pain into purpose and their struggles into strength. My goal is not only to support victims and their families as they face legal, emotional, and practical challenges but also to empower communities to become safer and more resilient.

One of the key reasons I formed **Turning It Around** is because I saw firsthand how little support there is for families affected by crime. Too often, victims are left to deal with their trauma alone, with no clear path to healing or justice. I wanted to create a space where these families could find the help they need—whether through counseling, legal advocacy, or community resources—while also engaging in proactive outreach to prevent future tragedies.

The mission of **Turning It Around** is simple: to advocate for justice, provide compassionate support, and help families and communities rebuild. I honestly believe that through action and dedicated resources, we can help victims find hope again and ensure that no one is left to face their darkest moments by themselves.

Candace Sims is the co-founder who discovered Advocacy is what she was doing even before she was considered an Advocate. A Professional Speaker and Certified End of Life Coach, I thought my life was through when I lost my son Marcus Reid to senseless gun violence. I never thought in a million years that I would be so passionate about serving the community by leaning into Grief and Trauma. Walking into a Grief Support group called The Compassionate Friends would not only change my life; but also give me life.  I went from being a member of a Support group to Hosting Support group on a monthly basis for years. 

The Promise: Death will allow you to live better if you will allow. Find a program or resource that connects with your pain; and do the work. Know that your life has changed; it's okay. Your circle of support will change, your interests will change, and you will find you are living the life you were destined to live.

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