Free Support Group for Families of Missing Loved Ones

(Landover Hills, MD) – Valencia Harris and Derrick Butler in partnership with the Black and Missing Foundation, Inc (BAM FI) will begin hosting a free support group for families of missing individuals. The group will meet from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning Wednesday, February 13, 2013. The meeting will be held at the ARC – 1901 Mississippi Ave, SE, Washington, DC 20020.

The support group “Between Grace and Grief” was conceived in honor of Unique Harris, Pamela Butler and the thousands of missing persons of color who have vanished without a trace; to provide families of the missing with an outlet to discuss the challenges in dealing with a missing loved one; and as an opportunity for family and friends to share practical tips in dealing with a missing loved one.

The group is open to anyone, including immediate and extended family members and friends. People can join at any time.

“Coping with a missing loved one is traumatic and overwhelming,” said Derrica Wilson and Natalie Wilson, founders of Black and Missing Foundation, Inc. “We want families to know that they are not alone. The support group members, who are going through a similar experience – similar emotions – are there to listen and lend their experience, strength and hope in this difficult time.”

The group will be lead by Valencia Harris and Derrick Butler.

Valencia Harris’ daughter, Unique, disappeared in the early morning hours of October 10, 2010, while her two young sons and cousin slept in the next room. “People may say they understand, but realistically, they don’t! The not knowing is heart-wrenching. It is almost unbearable not knowing what happened to my daughter.”

Valencia also adds, “We ask ourselves, where do we go to regroup? Now, we have an answer, the ‘Between Grace and Grief’ support group created in honor of Unique and Pamela.”

Derrick Butler‘s sister, Pamela, disappeared on February, 14, 2009 from her home. “I run into people all the time who express their sorrow for what my family and I have been going through since my sister has been missing. I am thankful for their thoughts and prayers. However, I don’t think people who have not lived with such devastation will ever understand the pain and uncertainty that does not lessen with time.”

Derrick adds, “My sister will have been missing for four years. While most people are finalizing plans for a romantic time with their loved ones, my family and I are gearing up for yet another prayer vigil to bring our beloved Pamela home. Joining us at the vigil will help to strengthen our hope that she will return and reinforce our belief that others have not forgotten her.”

Persons seeking more information about this support group can call Valencia Harris at 202 239-7118 or visit BAM FI’s website at www.BAMFI.org.

Disclaimer: The information provided within the “Between Grace to Grief Support Group” is not a substitute for professional medical care, counseling or attention by a qualified practitioner, nor should it be implied as such. Information shared comes from personal experiences from families and friends of missing loved ones. The Black and Missing Foundation, Inc is not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for ANY form of damages whatsoever resulting from the use (or misuse) of information provided.

About Black and Missing Foundation Inc.:

Black and Missing Foundation, Inc (BAMFI) is established as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, by a veteran law enforcement official and public relations specialist, whose mission is to bring awareness to missing persons of color; provide vital resources and tools to missing person’s families and friends; and to provide educational training on personal safety. BAMFI offers a free clearinghouse, which highlights profiles and information on missing persons of color, nationally. Profiles of missing individuals, throughout the nation, as well as news, information, and tips, can be found at BAMFI’s Web site: www.bamfi.org, IG: @blackandmissingfdn, Twitter: @BAM_FI or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bamfiorg.