"The violence has to end:" Victims of Milwaukee Violence Burial Fund walk for peace

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee saw a violent start to the weekend, with five fatal shootings from Friday, August 12th into Saturday, August 13th. Many in the community are looking for ways to end the violence, while those with the Victims of Milwaukee Violence Burial Fund are working to help families give their loved ones a proper burial.

Janice Gorden is the founder of Victims of Milwaukee Violence Burial Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the financial needs of families impacted by violence.

Saturday, August 13th marked the group's second year hosting a 3K walk for victims.

The participation doubled this year. Organizers said sadly that's because violence plagues our city.

"The crime has to end. The violence has to end," said David Rehfeld with World Impact Ministries.

Rehfeld and his family were at Saturday's event supporting their church families who have lost loved ones to gun violence.

"This is an organization that helps on the back end. If we had the ability to halt all crime and violence, then organizations like this wouldn't need to exist," said Rehfeld.

With each step came healing for Wanda Webb, whose son, Lajuan Lipsey, was fatally shot last year near 24th and Melvina.

"It's been very difficult," said Webb.

The pain of her loss is still so great.

"Actually this is the first event that I've even gone to since my son. It's very hard to even get myself up to want to participate," said Webb.

Webb came with her grandson and met others who share her same story.

"That really makes me feel good. It just helps me out to be with somebody who feels and shares the same pain that I have," said Webb.

Together they will get through it.

Victims of Milwaukee Burial Fund officials said their goal is to someday financially support the families impacted by violent crimes.

A suspect was arrested in 21-year-old Lajuan Lipsey's death. The suspect's pretrial is scheduled for next month.