“Our legal system protects the rights of criminals. It must also protect the rights of crime victims. I commend PAVC for raising awareness of crime victims’ rights and for helping the state fulfill its obligation to protect the innocent.”

George W. Bush
Former Texas Governor

Mission

In 1982, the statewide organization of People Against Violent Crime (PAVC) was formed in memory of all who suffered as victims of violent crimes.

Every 3 ½ minutes, a violent crime occurs in Texas. In each instance, at least one person is a victim that needs assistance and guidance through the process of victimization and the criminal justice system.

PAVC’s mission is to ensure that the rights of crime victims are upheld according to the Texas Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights and to coordinate with victim service providers, law enforcement agencies and criminal justice agencies to help make certain that adequate resources are available to all victims of crime.

PAVC has overcome many obstacles concerning the rights for victims of crime. We shall remain united in our efforts to be assured crime victims will be treated fairly and with dignity and respect.

Contributions to PAVC

PAVC is a non partisan, non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization. No victim will be refused services based on race, culture, religious affiliation, nationality, gender, or sexual orientation.

Founder’s Statement

People Against Violent Crime was founded by Nell Myers whose daughter, Cydney Myers, was brutally murdered in 1979. Upon learning of the injustices in the criminal justice system, Nell committed herself to making a difference in the lives of crime victims across the state. She established PAVC in Austin, Texas with 36 charter members.

Nell Myers passed away on September 26, 2000. Nell’s passing has not changed the fundamentals of PAVC, nor has it changed the organization’s purpose. She will remain our guiding light in search of hope and justice for all victims and their families.

   Nell Myers, Founder

  Sunrise July 16, 1925
  Sunset Sept. 26, 2000

"Don't follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail. When you start a new trail equipped with courage, strength and conviction, the only thing that can stop you is you!"

Ruby Bridges, Civil Rights Pioneer

It is with great honor and privilege that we have been blessed with the opportunity to know Nell Myers, the Pioneer of the victim rights' movement in Texas. Because of Nell's crusade for over two decades, the future of victims' rights in Texas has been preserved with an unremitting state of progression. People Against Violent Crime was established because of Nell's foresight from the depths of her own personal experiences, not by the legislature, corporate power brokers, or service providers.

Nell inspired many of us to reach out because of our own experiences and continue on in her crusade for Justice. By encouraging us to reach out, Nell provided us with a personal healing mechanism and empowerment in which we are able to live with our own pain.

On behalf of People Against Violent Crime, we extend our deepest gratitude and warmest appreciation for the service Nell has provided each of us personally and professionally. For many of us, Nell has become our guiding light over the years and as an organization, we will always be indebted to her for her love and dedication.