The National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC) held their 2008 National Conference in Portland, June 2nd - June 5th. This year's theme "Responses, Rights, and Resources for Crime Victims" focused on multidisciplinary approaches to sharing promising practices, research, and policies. It featured more than 90 experts presenting over 70 workshops and plenaries to enhance knowledge and skills for serving victims of crime. Several Families and Friends staff, including Executive Director, Jenny Wieland attended the Conference.

The Conference's opening keynote speakers' included John W. Gillis, Director of the Office for Victims of Crime in the U.S. Department of Justice. He has been serving in that capacity since September 2001.

Mr. Gillis has a long and distinguished career in law enforcement. He has previously served as the Chair of the California Board of Prisons and for over two decades with the Los Angeles Police Department. He is also a member of the American Police Hall of Fame.

Following the 1979 murder of his daughter, Lourarna, Mr. Gillis helped found Justice for Homicide Victims and the Coalition of Victims Equal Rights, a statewide organization that works on behalf of the rights of victims and their families.

In 1991, President George Bush presented Mr. Gillis with the National Crime Victim Service Award for his work in helping crime victims. In 1993, former Attorney General William Barr recognized Mr. Gillis crime victim service with a Special Commendation Award.