about us
Homicide Survivors, Inc. is on a mission to help meet the crisis and long term needs of families of murder victims through support, advocacy, and assistance.
Hope & Healing
At Homicide Survivors Inc., we believe that a compassionate and trauma-informed response to survivors is essential to creating a safe space to grieve, heal, and transform. Grief is a lifelong journey; we are here to provide you with the tools and resources necessary to move forward.
- We honor and respect your unique way of grieving
- Join community of Survivors who “Get It”
- We meet you where you are in your grief journey
Get Support
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn93dNjM_jc
Founder
In Memory of Gail Leland
After Gail Leland’s 14-year-old son, Richard, was murdered in 1981, she recognized the need for support for parents of murdered children. She founded the charter chapter of Parents of Murdered Children (POMC) in Tucson, Arizona, on February 19, 1982, which later became Homicide Survivors, Inc.
Meet Our Team
Dennisse Ley
Executive Director
Born in Mexico to two parents that always encouraged her to help others, Dennisse became involved in community & social justice groups at a young age. Dennisse feels honored to work for HSI & hopes to grow & formalize our program to serve families & friends of murder victims better.
Sylvia Alvarez
Victim Advocate
In 2015, Sylvia turned to HSI for emotional support after her son, Michael, was killed in a drunk driving crash on Valentine’s day. In September of 2017 she joined HSI as a Victim Advocate & finds helping survivors rewarding & comforting & healing for her during her ongoing grief.
Holy Jackson
Victim Advocate
In 2018 Holly utilized her educational background in criminal justice and psychology as an intern at HSI to better advocate for survivors of homicide. She feels honored to return to HSI as an Advocate to provide guidance, support, and validation for survivors as they navigate life after the murder of their loved one.
Narda Rivera
Victim Advocate
After almost 20 years of working as an advocate, Narda continues to be called to support survivors of violence. As a survivor, she understands the intersections & impacts that violence has on our communities. Narda is committed to organizing & working towards making systemic changes that will create a stronger, safer, & equitable world for all.
Lisa Spilsbury
Bookkeeper
Lisa was raised in Tucson, and after traveling a bit, settled back to the town she loves. As a bookkeeper working behind the scenes, she finds it deeply gratifying to be helping the helpers. She is looking forward to growing and learning as the program grows.
Joselin Diaz
Victim Advocate
Joselin started as an HSI intern in 2018 while completing her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at the University of Arizona. She feels grateful to return as a victim advocate and aims to serve the community by bringing a light of hope, guidance and validation to Survivors.
Board of directors
Our Directors bring a wealth of knowledge and experiences united by their passion for our mission. We’re grateful to have a group of innovative and committed leaders guiding our organization..