A Metro Atlanta woman is turning the tragedy into a nonprofit to help families of shooting victims

ATLANTA – A metro Atlanta woman who lost her fiancé to gun violence has turned her grief into change.

Aaliyah Strong founded an organization to help survivors and families of shooting victims, and it just got a big boost.

It started in 2022 with absolute heartbreak.

“My fiancé was shot while we were at work,” Strong said.

In February 2022, Damon Wilson shot and killed Ty Ross, who worked as a security guard at the Encore Hookah Bar on Luckie Street, according to prosecutors. Investigators say the downtown Atlanta bar kicked Wilson out, then he grabbed a gun and killed Strong’s fiancé.

Ross’ murder sent Strong’s life into a spiral.

“My son and I were evicted. We couldn’t afford the rent,” she said.

She didn’t believe anyone affected by gun violence should go it alone. That’s why she founded the nonprofit Tyme to Thrive Beyond Grief, which reaches out to victims’ families as they navigate life after tragedy.

“We want to ensure survivors receive direct financial assistance for funeral costs, housing and rental assistance, and we want to expand our services throughout the greater Atlanta area,” she said.

The national organization Everytown for Gun Violence recently recognized Strong’s work. They awarded her organization $100,000 to expand its reach.

“There is so much gun violence across the country and I hope someone sees my story and be the voice of their community,” Strong said.

Because of her work, the woman from Atlanta was also invited to the White House. She told FOX 5’s Rob Dirienzo that she hopes to continue building on Ty’s legacy.

“I know he would be so proud of how far I’ve come. I said I wouldn’t stop, we’re just getting started,” she said.

You can find out more about Tyme to Thrive Beyond Grief on the website.