Second Annual Hope and Justice Dinner Coming in November

FEATURED SPEAKER

Aphrodite Jones will be returning as a distinguished featured speaker at this year's Hope and Justice Dinner, an event dedicated to raising awareness and support for families affected by an unsolved homicide or missing persons case. Jones is a bestselling author and renowned television host, known for her compelling true crime series, "True Crime with Aphrodite Jones," which airs on Investigation Discovery. 

Her latest work, "Levi's Eyes," has not only captivated readers but has also shed light on critical issues such as abuse, neglect, and murder, revealing the profound impact these tragedies have on individuals and communities. Through her engaging storytelling and meticulous research, Jones dives deep into the complexities of these cases, sparking important conversations about justice and healing. 

Attendees of the Hope and Justice Dinner can expect to be inspired by her insights and passion for advocacy, as she shares her experiences and the vital lessons learned from her investigative work.

FEATURED SPEAKER

Professor Charlene "Charlie" Shunick, a distinguished advocate for missing persons, will return to Live Oak as this year's featured speaker. As the founder of both the Resource Association for Missing Persons and Shunick Missing Persons, Professor Shunick has dedicated her life to raising awareness and providing support for families affected by the tragedy of missing loved ones. 

Her passion for this cause is deeply personal; it stems from the heartbreaking experience of losing her sister, Michaela "Micky" Shunick, who was tragically abducted and murdered. Professor Shunick's journey through grief has fueled her relentless pursuit of justice and reform, as she works to shed light on the systemic issues surrounding missing persons cases. 

In her talk, she will share poignant stories from her advocacy work, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, policy changes, and the need for greater resources to assist families during their most challenging times. Attendees can expect an inspiring and eye-opening discussion that not only honors the memory of Micky but also empowers others to take action and support those who are affected by similar tragedies.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Katie Jeffries is a highly respected journalist, known for her impactful work in the field of broadcast news. She formerly served as the morning anchor for First Coast News in Jacksonville, where her engaging reporting style and commitment to local stories earned her multiple awards and a loyal audience. During her time at First Coast News, Katie was also the host of the highly regarded "Unsolved" series, which shed light on unresolved cases, bringing attention and hope to families seeking closure.

Her investigative efforts focused on several significant cases in the Suwannee River Valley, allowing her to connect with the community and address pressing issues. Beyond her journalism career, Katie has actively participated as a board member of Suwannee Valley Unsolved, Inc., advocating for families affected by crime and championing justice in the region.

Currently, Katie serves as the Media Director for the Jacksonville Electric Authority, where she utilizes her extensive experience in communication and outreach to enhance the organization’s public image and community engagement. In this role, she applies her storytelling expertise to inform and connect with the community, ensuring that important initiatives and services are effectively communicated to the residents of Jacksonville. Katie's dedication to her work continues to make a significant impact, both in journalism and in her current position, reinforcing her commitment to the community she serves.