The Retreat held a successful evening of giving at its annual All Against Abuse gala at The Church in Sag Harbor on June 3.
“All Against Abuse is an opportunity to celebrate the work of The Retreat, which provides comprehensive domestic violence services for children and adults,” said Retreat Executive Director Loretta Davis. “It’s always a special event, and this night was no different. We are so grateful to the many supporters who helped to make it a success.”
Following the cocktail party portion of the night, Davis presented Honorees Claude Okin and Hana Sromova, of Sportime Amagansett, with an etched glass bowl as a gift for their generosity. Okin spoke about the high rates of domestic violence in the U.S., the impact it has on children, and why it is so important to “interrupt” the cycle of violence.
Keynote Speaker Tijuana Fulford shared her own experience with domestic violence and courageous journey to leave her abusive partner, with help from The Retreat. She has dedicated her life to helping other young women — Fulford is the Founder and Executive Director of The Butterfly Effect Project, a nonprofit that works to empower young girls in hopes of bringing forth a generation of women who are strong, independent, and knowledgeable.
The night closed out with auctioneer Lucas Hunt who hosted a paddle raise auction for donations.
Guests included Joy Behar, Katie Lee, and Cristina Cuomo. The evening featured music by Lee Skolnick and The Originals and hors d’oeuvres and cocktails by Art of Eating.
All Against Abuse supports The Retreat’s prevention education programs, counseling and crisis services, advocacy, and 24-hour hotline, all at no cost.
