The Baldwin County District Attorney's Office will host its annual Victims Vigil on Tuesday, April 8, at the Loxley Civic Center.

The event, part of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, will honor victims of violent crime, support survivors and their families and raise awareness about victim advocacy efforts in Baldwin County.

A Victim Services Expo will precede the vigil, offering resources and support materials for those affected by crime. Local organizations will be on hand to share information about services available to victims and their loved ones. The expo will run from 4:30-5 p.m., followed by the vigil at 5 p.m.

Families who have lost loved ones to violent crime are invited to include their relatives' names and photos in the memorial tribute. Submissions can be sent via text or email to Breighanna Vigor at (251) 513-9182 or Breighanna.Vigor@BaldwinCountyAL.gov.

SCHOLARSHIP TO SUPPORT CRIME VICTIMS' ADVOCACY

As part of the weeklong observance, the DA's office and the nonprofit Stopping Traffick will award a $500 scholarship to a Baldwin County high school senior. The "Strength in Kinship" scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to supporting victims and promoting community resilience.

Applicants must submit a 1-2 page, double-spaced essay addressing this year's theme: "Kinship: Building Stronger Communities for Victims." The prompt encourages students to share personal experiences, stories of resilience, or ideas on how individuals and communities can foster support and healing for victims of crime.

Essays are due by April 1 and should be emailed to Breighanna.Vigor@BaldwinCountyAL.gov. The recipient will be recognized during the vigil.

For more information about the event or the scholarship, contact the Baldwin County District Attorney's Office at (251) 937-0274.