CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Judy Williams never thought the non-profit she co-founded in 1993 would last this long. But on Sunday, she joined hundreds of supporters to celebrate 25 years of Mothers of Murdered Offspring.
- It originated after the strangling death of Shawna Hawk at the hands of Charlotte serial killer Henry Wallace.
- The support group has helped thousands through candlelight services, grief management, and more.
- As for the next 25 years, Williams sees MOM-O continuing to run strong, and expand into chapters across the country.
It originated after the strangling death of Shawna Hawk at the hands of Charlotte serial killer Henry Wallace.
“It’s an awesome landmark,” said Wiliams. “It’s been a journey, we have learned so much, and met so many people.”
The support group has helped thousands through candlelight services, grief management, and more.
“MOM-O is a strong shoulder when tears start to flow. A kind word is needed in the middle of the night, or just comfort in those down times when no one understands,” explained board member Melanee Friday.
Antonio and Delores Thompson called upon the group when their son Antwon was killed in 2004.
“We’ve been at it a long time, but yet we are here to represent and know we have support for others who are in the same boat,” said Antonio.
To hit such a milestone is bittersweet, though. If not for tragedy, this group would not exist.
“For every bad thing that happens you’ve got to have a good thing that replaces it. If we can continue to be that good thing, even as the bad things happen, it gives people hope,” Williams added.
As for the next 25 years, Williams sees MOM-O continuing to run strong, and expand into chapters across the country.