On the morning of November 14th, the room at Evangel Temple Lodge was filled with anticipation, hope, and compassion as we gathered for the 3rd Annual Victory Over Violence Breakfast. This event honored innocent victims of violent crime and their families across the North Florida area.
In attendance were our founder’s wife and son, Ms. Wanda and Wesley Hires, along with community leaders, victims, sponsors, and law enforcement representatives from Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns counties. Also present were members of the Mayor’s office, the State Attorney’s and Public Defender’s offices, several judges, Jacksonville City Council members, and past representatives and dignitaries.
The breakfast, prepared by the cooks from the Fraternal Order of Police, was excellent. The speakers were inspiring, each sharing their involvement with the Justice Coalition, their history of serving victims, or personal experiences of how crime forever changed their lives.
Guest speakers included emcee Vic Micolucci; Pastor Amos Bankhead, a longtime volunteer who offered opening remarks; Clerk of the Court Jody Phillips; Congressman John Rutherford; Mrs. Rose Devoe of the Gabriel Devoe Foundation; Forrest Bailey of the Tristyn Bailey Foundation; Robert Bracewell, Justice Coalition Executive Director, who shared a video message from John Walsh; Mrs. Connie Pittman, the first victim assisted by Ted Hires after founding the organization; Sheriff Robert Hardwick of St. Johns County, who spoke on violence reduction; and Foster Coker, a home invasion survivor and Justice Coalition board member, who delivered closing comments.
Highlights of the event included recognition of victims and families, historical displays of the Justice Coalition, a flower presentation, and the powerful stories of survivors. Emotions ran high: tears were shed, love was shared, and healing began. All present were blessed by our Creator.
We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s breakfast. The fact that no food was left over is a testament to the event’s impact. Special thanks go to Mrs. Rose Devoe for her beautiful decorations; Ms. Betty Hayes and the ladies of the Lakeshore Women’s Club for their professional handling of registration; Mrs. Kelly Chatham for curating the Justice Coalition’s historical displays; our dedicated board members, sponsors, speakers, and volunteers for their invaluable support; and Pastor Jordan Wiggins, Evangel Temple staff, Tabatha, and Paige for providing the venue.
As we close this recap of the 3rd Annual Victory Over Violence Breakfast, let us carry forward these thoughts: be kind always, help others whenever you can, and get involved to make a difference for those who need it most. As our founder Ted Hires believed, one person can make a difference. Be that person.
Read the complete December 2025 edition of the Victims’ Advocate (PDF)