As we reflect on the success of this year's Breakfast of Hope and the month of October, we are filled with gratitude for the 500+ attendees who came together to raise vital awareness and more than $330,000 for Mecklenburg County survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. 

The event was a poignant reminder of the collective strength in our community and the urgent need for ongoing support. With inspiring speakers and heartfelt stories, we set the stage for a powerful dialogue around the impacts of domestic violence.   

We opened with an impactful video, "Beneath The Surface", that highlights how deeply domestic violence impacts those around us.

Our speakers ignited a sense of optimism and purpose, highlighting the powerful ripple effects that come from addressing domestic and sexual violence. Each speaker offered a unique perspective, demonstrating how our community can come together to create meaningful change. 

Spencer Merriweather, Mecklenburg County District Attorney, spoke with passion about the ways our justice system and community can make a difference in the lives of survivors. He shared how, through strategic efforts and collaboration, we can work to protect those affected by domestic and sexual violence while fostering a safer, more compassionate community for everyone. 

Sydney Giesey, MSW, LCSW-A, from Atrium Health's Domestic Violence Healthcare Project (DVHP), provided an inspiring look into the healing process. Through her work, Sydney connects survivors with critical resources that help them reclaim their lives and move forward. She reminded us of the resilience of survivors and the crucial role that support services play in their journey toward healing. 

We ended with Dayanara, a 14-year-old survivor, who bravely shared her story of transformation. With remarkable strength, she spoke of her personal challenges and how hope and support have empowered her to rebuild her life. Her story was a testament to the human spirit's ability to rise, and it reminded us all that by supporting survivors, we can spark ripples of positive change that extend throughout the entire community. 

Together, our speakers painted a picture of a future filled with hope, where individuals, organizations, and communities unite to create a world where survivors not only survive but thrive. By working together, we can turn every story of hardship into one of strength and healing, ensuring that every ripple we create reaches even further. 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Mecklenburg County 

As Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) unfolded, our Charlotte community rallied together, showing an incredible spirit of solidarity and commitment to making a difference. The month was filled with impactful events that not only raised awareness but also empowered individuals in meaningful ways.  

One standout events was a dynamic self-defense class hosted by Miss North Carolina, Kenzie Hansley. Through this interactive session, participants gained valuable skills and confidence, learning how to protect themselves while also reinforcing the importance of personal safety and empowerment in the fight against domestic violence. 

Jax Hendrickson, a former police officer and now a self-defense instructor at Igneous Self Defense in Charlotte, taught and co-hosted the class. She emphasized a crucial reminder about protecting oneself before an altercation becomes physical: "In those situations, remember that my safety is what's important. It's more important than people's feelings, society's expectations, or even my reputation." 

The Charlotte Fashion Collective hosted their remarkable fashion show event that showcased stunning designs set to the backdrop of powerful music. This event not only highlighted top talent but also benefited survivors of domestic violence. 

Another highlight of the month was a free Pilates session hosted by Veronica's Homes, which focused on both physical strength and emotional solidarity. The session brought survivors and supporters together, creating a space of healing, resilience, and unity.  

These events, and the many others held throughout DVAM, reflect the vibrancy and commitment of our community to standing up for survivors. Each gathering served as a reminder that through unity and action, we can create lasting change for those impacted by domestic and sexual violence. 

The Month by Numbers 

We are absolutely blown away by the incredible support from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community this Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)!  

From another record-breaking success of our Breakfast of Hope to the inspiring Champions of Hope campaign and all the amazing third-party events held in honor of DVAM, we can't thank you enough for your involvement. Each one of you has played a huge part in making this month truly special for survivors.  

We're beyond excited to announce that together, we raised over $370,000 to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence right here in Mecklenburg County. But even more than the numbers, it's the impact we've made together that counts:  

• 3,000 calls to the Greater Charlotte Hope Line, offering comfort and guidance when it's needed most.  

• 8,280 days of meals for those staying at our 80-bed Clyde and Ethel Dickson Domestic Violence Shelter, giving them a sense of security and care.   

• 2,720 hours of legal representation through our Victim Assistance Court Program, ensuring survivors have someone fighting by their side.  

• 1,440 hours of trauma counseling at the Sexual Trauma Resource Center, helping survivors begin to heal and rebuild. 

We can't say it enough--thank you to everyone who stood up for survivors this month. Your kindness, dedication, and support are truly making a difference. Together, we're bringing hope and healing to so many lives. 

As we conclude Domestic Violence Awareness Month and reflect on the success of the Breakfast of Hope, it's important to remember that our work doesn't stop here. While October provided a spotlight on the critical issues of domestic and sexual violence, these challenges persist every day. The stories shared, the funds raised, and the awareness spread are just the beginning.  

Our community's support has created ripples of change, but it's essential that we continue this momentum. The journey of healing for survivors is ongoing, and so must our efforts to support them. Let us carry the hope, strength, and unity from DVAM forward, ensuring that every survivor knows they are not alone, not just in October, but throughout the year. Together, we can build a future where safety, healing, and empowerment are always within reach for every survivor.