This "tip sheet" from the National Mass Violence Victimization Resource Center suggests ways in which leaders of a community and faith institutions impacted by a mass violence incident (MVI) can provide emotional and spiritual guidance and support on the anniversary of the MVI.
The 14 briefly described suggestions focus on ways to provide emotional and spiritual guidance and support on the MVI anniversary. One suggestion is to involve in the remembrance planning MVI victims/survivors, first responders, and others directly affected by the MVI. Planning should recognize the preference of some to participate in private events hosted primarily for those involved in the effects of and response to the MVI. Other suggestions include making public health information available to address potential emotional reactions to the MVI remembrance; have national, state, tribal, county, and/or city proclamations that commemorate the MVI anniversary; make it clear to MVI victims/survivors that the community is providing ongoing support and understanding of the long-term impact of the MVI on their lives; engage local and national news media in covering the memorial events and activities; develop a comprehensive social media strategy; and vary memorial events to suit the needs of each segment of the community.