Text Box: WHO WE ARE

*   Parents Of Murdered Children is the only national self-help organization dedicated solely to the aftermath and prevention of murder.


WHAT IS POMC?
POMC:
*   Is the only National self-help organization dedicated solely to the aftermath and prevention of  murder.
     
*   Is a Support Group for all adult family members (not just parents) and friends of those who have died by violence.
*  Is a group which offers emotional support and information about surviving the loss of a loved one who has been murdered.
*   Is a 501(c) non-profit organization.


Origin of POMC 
The National Organization of Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc. was founded in 1978 by Charlotte and Bob Hullinger in Cincinnati, Ohio three months after the murder of their daughter, Lisa.  POMC began as a support group for only parents.  It now includes family members and friends who share the grief of murder.  POMC now provides assistance to over 100,000 survivors each year with Chapters and Contact Persons across the Country.

The Merrimack Valley Chapter of POMC was started in September of 2006 by Laurie and Nelson Gomm lost their daughter to murder.  They called the National office to learn how to start a chapter.  When the Gomms had to move, the chapter was taken over by Arnie and Alice Muscovitz, who also lost their daughter to homicide.


WHAT WE PROVIDE

*  Ongoing emotional support to help survivors deal with the pain and loss, and to facilitate the reconstruction of their lives.
*   Contact with similarly bereaved people at our monthly support group meeting and through phone contact.
*   Information about the grief process and criminal court system as they pertain to homicide.
*   Informaton for professionals about the problems faced by those surviving a homicide victim.  


POMC PROGRAMS

*   Parole Block Program (PBP)
*   Murder Is Not Entertainment (MINE)
*   Second Opinion Services (SOS)
*   Silenced Voices
*   Big Turn-Off
*   Murder Wall
*   National Day of Remembrance - Sept. 25
*   POMC Memorial Cards


SURVIVOR SUPPORT

*   Court Accompanient
*   Speaker’s Bureau
*   Anniversary Note Program
*   Monthly Self-Help & Support Meeting
*   Bi-monthly Newsletter
*   Education
*   Compassion
*   Natural Conference
*   Grief Weekend (sponsored by National)


MEMBERSHIP

*   Membership is open to those who have been cruelly bereaved by the murder of their child, family  member or other loved one.  Professionals who are in frequent contact with grieving families are also welcome to join.


WHAT HAPPENS AT MEETINGS?

*   Most meetings begin with introductions and each survivor telling of his or her name.  Usually, meetings revolve around group members’ own knowledge and experience.  Occasionally, speakers are invited to present information and to learn from survivors.

SHOULD I ATTEND ALL MEETINGS?

*   Some members attend meetings regularly, while others attend infrequently or maintain contact primarily by phone or email.  The group is sustained by members who have made progress in their recovery but stay with the group to give support to newly bereaved survivors.
*   POMCMA has no religious creed or affiliation.
Parents Of Murdered Children
Merrimack Valley Ma. Chapter
(978)452-5858