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HOPE GALA raises awareness of domestic abuse

 

LANDRUM – Steps to HOPE held its inaugural HOPE GALA on Saturday, Feb. 25 at the Landrum Farmer’s Market. The purpose of the gala was to raise awareness for the problem of domestic violence in our area. 

The event featured live music from Special Edition, a polaroid photo booth, and a wine and bourbon pull for guests to enjoy. Dinner was provided by Hare and Hound.

The gala’s venue was transformed with hearts and roses and had space for dancing and visiting. The table centerpieces featured teddy bears – a sobering reminder that Steps to HOPE serves children.  

“The event was so much fun,” said Diane Nelson, Executive Director of Steps to HOPE. “The loveliest part was that we welcomed people from all the different circles…our theater, equestrian, non-profit, medical, and business people, and members of the community at large. I think this will become ‘an event to attend’ in the future.”

Brittany Bettini, the keynote speaker, shared her personal experience with domestic violence, and how she escaped with the help of a sister DV/SA agency. Her testimony illustrated the success that is possible when courageous survivors have the support they need to change their situation.  

Plans for a new shelter were also announced at the gala. Watch for more news in the coming weeks from Steps to HOPE.

“We want to expand our present accommodations so we can better serve the women, children and men who come to us for help,” Nelson said. “More information will follow, but we are planning for a new shelter with private rooms and baths, some large enough to accommodate families so we can keep them together, which is so important.”

The mission of Steps to HOPE is to create a community free from the violence of domestic and sexual abuse through education, advocacy and victim assistance. It provides emergency temporary safe shelter to those seeking refuge from domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.