On May 23, the Clarion Hotel hosted Stories of Strength: An Evening to Benefit Safe Passage. This event celebrated Safe Passage's 33 years of service in Hampshire County as well as the strength of survivors of domestic violence.

The event featured remarks by three women who are working to address domestic violence in Hampshire County and beyond. Lena Sclove, a senior at Amherst Regional High School, has spent the past two years leading writing groups that she developed for the women and children who live in Safe Passage’s shelter. In her speech, Lena spoke about the importance of giving a voice to those who have been silenced by society.

Yoko Kato, a Safe Passage board member, spoke about her personal experience with domestic violence. In 1992, Yoko’s daughter and grandson were murdered in Northampton by the child’s father. In her speech, Yoko exhibited strength and bravery as she shared her experiences and how they have galvanized her to raise awareness about domestic violence in Massachusetts and Japan.

Mary Lauby delivered the final speech of the evening. As Executive Director of Jane Doe Inc., the Massachusetts coalition against domestic violence and sexual assault, Mary works to represent organizations like Safe Passage at the state level. Mary shared some startling statistics about domestic violence in the Commonwealth, and connected the daily work of Safe Passage with the state and federal movements against domestic violence.

In addition to these inspiring speakers, the evening featured silent and live auctions of a wide variety of items, including artwork, gift certificates for restaurants and services, and concert tickets.

The event raised $17,000 for Safe Passage's programs, helping us to continue to respond to the hundreds of women and children who seek our services every year.

Thank you for your support!

_________________________________________________________________

Thanks to our generous sponsors!

Activist:
Citizens Bank

Advocates:
Claire Bateman/Running Fox Studio
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center
Gravity Switch
Lightlife Foods

Table Sponsors:
Integrity Development & Construction
United Bank
The Bank of Western MA, A Division of People's United
Small World Fund for Children

Supporters:
BMC HealthNet Plan
Florence Savings Bank
Freedom Credit Union
Mark Berens Animal Hospital
Northampton Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Labels: Events

Posted on Monday, March 15, 2010

---