That impulse-to keep working even when years have passed-is central to the organization's identity.

But the nonprofit's mission isn't limited to the investigative side. Houston's Unsolved Homicides says its purpose is to honor lives lost, uplift families, and strengthen communities through compassion, service, and unity-a framework that intentionally widens the focus beyond one case and into the daily realities families face after violence.

The organization's work reflects that broader definition of justice: helping families feel less alone, and building community momentum around remembrance and support.

More than awareness: service as healing

H.U.H's public presence often looks like community service-work Marsden calls his  therapy.  The group participates in local events and organizes outreach efforts that meet immediate needs, including distributing clothing and supplies and providing support to people experiencing homelessness. The nonprofit also highlights initiatives that extend beyond Houston, including donation shipments and partnerships abroad.

The organization frames that approach plainly:  healing begins with helping others.  That service-first mindset is part of how H.U.H keeps families connected even when the legal system moves slowly-or not at all.

Members of Houston's Unsolved Homicides gather at Tom Bass Regional Park on Saturday, July 25, 2026 (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

And while the group's annual picnic is designed for fellowship and remembrance, Marsden emphasizes the larger goal behind gatherings like it: creating a safe, recurring space where families can connect, share, and keep going.

The faces on the banners

At community events, H.U.H displays banners with victims' names and photos-visual reminders of the cases that still weigh on families. Marsden pointed to several victims represented in the group's materials and advocacy.

Aaliyah Avila-Green

Donta Mottley

Jaime Vega

Alonzo Irving

Maria Jimenez Rodriguez

Robert Cerda

Carl Harrison

Martin Lopez

Donnie Gibbs

Maliyah Rosalie Bass

Marshan Jamell Parker

Paul Jesus Martinez

Fabian O'Neal Smith

These are not the only names that loved ones are missing.

Each name represents more than a cold case number; it represents a family's before-and-after, and a life the group insists on continuing to speak aloud.

John Marsden and a H.U.H. member walk along the banners of homicide victims. (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

A gathering, and a message to the city

Organization leaders described their events as a space for  healing, fellowship, remembrance, and community support,  while also raising awareness about unsolved homicide cases across the Greater Houston area.

Dr. Zideco Siverand, the group's vice president, said that  no family should have to carry their grief alone.  The statement captures what H.U.H tries to provide year-round: solidarity for families who often feel isolated-especially as headlines fade and attention shifts.

Houston's Unsolved Homicides shares information about its mission, community events and ways to support its work at houstonsunsolvedhomicides.org.

If you have information on an unsolved homicide case:

Submit a Tip Online through Crime Stoppers

Submit a Tip Online to the HCSO Homicide Unit

Contact HCSO Homicide Cold Case at (713) 274-9777.

Contact the HPD Homicide Division at (713) 308-3600, or the HPD Cold Case Squad at (713) 308-3618