"From my own experience as a homicide survivor, I realized I was never going to be my old self.

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I realized I could contribute to the recovery process for all victims of crime and help them face the future with confidence.

 

If you are the victim of a crime, remember you are not alone. You don't have to become isolated because help is available."

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                                                              Joanne Cicero

                                                              Homicide Survivor

                                                                       and

                                                              Executive Director of Crime Victims Support  

                                                              Services of the North Bronx, Inc.

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Joanne Cicero is a veteran victims’ rights advocate, and the Founder and Executive Director of Crime Victims Support Services of the North Bronx, Inc., a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization serving innocent victims of crime in Bronx County as well as all of New York State .

 

Cicero is also a homicide survivor.  Her 17-year-old son, Paul, was senselessly murdered on June 20, 1995 and like many individuals and families who find themselves plunged into such tragedy, she didn’t know where to turn.  

 

She did the only thing a mother could do--talk to other people in similar circumstances and invite them into her own home to try to find some meaning, consolation and justice.

 

From her grassroots efforts, in 1998, Cicero was appointed to lead the newly formed Crime Victims Assistance, a victims’ assistance program serving the north Bronx.  She started the program with only one employee—herself—doing outreach at police stations and providing claim assistance. 

 

A year later Cicero expanded the program to include two advocates specifically for domestic violence and elder abuse, an in-house therapist for crisis counseling, and a domestic violence support group.  She served as program director for seven years.

 

In 2005, Cicero established Crime Victims Support Services of the North Bronx, Inc. (CVSS), with core funding from the New York State Office of Victims Services and continues to serve as executive director.  The organization provides free services to innocent victims of crime and abuse and helps them navigate the criminal justice system.

 

Cicero also facilitated a long-running monthly homicide support group for the families of homicide victims.  These meetings allowed family members to share their experiences and feelings with others who experienced similar situations.

 

For her work on behalf of innocent victims of crime Cicero has been honored by the New York City Council (2003); Morris Park Community Association (2003); Calvary Hospital (2004); Bronx Times – 25 Influential Bronx Women (2009 Edition); Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (2010); Congressman Joseph Crowley, Women’s History Month Celebration (2011); and Benjamin Franklin Reform Democratic Club, Community Service Award (2013).  Cicero has also been a guest speaker numerous times on the subject of death and dying at Lehman College and Columbia University