About Us
Compassion. Connection. Hope.
Victims, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to providing immediate, on-site emotional support to individuals and families during the most traumatic moments of their lives. Our trained volunteers respond to crises such as fatal accidents, suicides, overdoses, fires, and other sudden tragedies—offering presence, comfort, and guidance until the victim’s personal support system can take over.
Founded in memory of Joan Ellis, who was tragically killed along with her unborn daughter in a crash caused by a red-light violation, Victims, Inc. was created to fill a critical gap in services for trauma survivors. Joan’s husband, Jim Ellis, established the organization to ensure that others facing devastating loss would not have to go through it alone.
Our mission is to complete the circle of care—from the onset of trauma through the healing process. All services provided by Victims, Inc. are free of charge.
Since 1993, volunteers have been dispatched directly to emergency scenes by police, fire departments, and hospitals throughout Strafford and Rockingham Counties. They accompany officers during death notifications, sit with grieving families at hospitals, and provide referrals to additional services when needed. The training program for volunteers is designed in collaboration with professionals from the medical, legal, mental health, and emergency response communities.
Victims, Inc. operates as The Joan Ellis Victim Assistance Network, continuing Joan’s legacy by offering compassion, connection, and hope—when it’s needed most.
Patricia Rainboth, Executive Director
As the founding Executive Director of Victims, Inc., Pat Rainboth has been a relentless advocate for trauma victims since October 1991. Inspired by a profound moment—kneeling beside a dying child after a roadside crash—she launched the organization to bring comfort and clarity when it’s needed most.
Under her leadership, Victims, Inc. has grown into a vital support network responding to incidents ranging from suicides and overdoses to fatal accidents and violent crimes. Pat’s guidance ensures that grieving individuals are not only present when disasters strike but also supported afterward—through critical follow-up, referrals, and accompaniment during court proceedings.
Pat’s unwavering compassion has transformed countless lives. A volunteer reflects, “She is an angel in disguise… providing the perspective and support that many people need to cope with their loss.” At 83, Pat continues her mission with unshakable dedication, saying, “When I look back, I feel like I gained more than I gave.”
Kimberly Starling, Advocate
Kimberly Starling is a seasoned nonprofit leader and trauma response professional at Victims Inc, where she has over 25 years of experience in organizational management, crisis intervention, and community advocacy. Kim plays a key role in developing support programs, facilitating grief recovery resources, and ensuring that every client is heard, protected, and empowered. Her work is grounded in the principles of dignity, equity, and survivor-centered advocacy. Kim is frequently called to scenes of untimely deaths, suicides, and major accidents, offering immediate emotional support and ensuring ongoing care for victims’ families and loved ones.
In addition to her critical work at Victims Inc, Kim serves as the Vice President and a founding board member of Continuum Arts Collective, a nonprofit supporting young artists and musicians in Maine and New Hampshire with free instruments, art supplies, and creative mentorship. Her leadership spans governance, budget oversight, and large-scale event coordination.
Kimberly’s career has also included pivotal roles in both the nonprofit arts and business sectors. Previously, she held senior leadership roles in respected regional theatres, including the Ogunquit Playhouse and North Country Center for the Arts, and the Emerson Majestic Theatre in Boston where she managed artistic operations, casting, budgeting, and community engagement.
Her dynamic background combines trauma-informed care with leadership, personnel management, contract negotiation, and public-facing advocacy. Whether managing backstage logistics or supporting grieving families in crisis, Kim leads with empathy, precision, and a deep belief in the transformative power of service.
Board of Directors
Nancy Higgins, President
Kristina Guay, Treasurer
Tori Gerlt, Secretary
Michael Ciccetti
Maureen Steer
Melissa Menter
Jill Monbleau