Courtesy photo.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Coalition For Family Harmony, which provides victims of family violence with the means to help them escape their life of abuse, is holding its “A Night at the Masquerade” benefit Saturday, November 2 at Los Robles Greens (299 South Moorpark Rd.) in Thousand Oaks.
Proceeds will go to programs for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in Ventura County. Guest speaker is Ray Leonard Jr., the oldest son of boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard.
The event will honor Edward McCain, major crimes detective with the Ventura Police Department and Gina D’Aquilla, RN, medical coordinator at Safe Harbor in Ventura.
“Detective McCain’s work with Ventura PD and his dedication to victims of domestic violence and community education is an inspiration to those he serves,” says Caroline Prijatel-Sutton, executive director of the Coalition for Family Harmony. “As the Safe Harbor medical coordinator, sexual assault nurse examiner and a community educator, Gina’s care and compassion has made a huge impact on assault victims.”
Now in its 43rd year, the Coalition’s provides shelter for individuals and families who are victims of abuse at the Coalition Safe House. Its services help with emotional, medical, legal, economic and housing needs, crisis counseling and intervention, referral assistance, restraining orders and connections with community resources.
“Our annual fundraiser not only brings awareness to the community of our crucial and lifesaving services, but also raises much-needed funds to keep victims of violence, women, children, and men, safe and thriving,” says Prijatel-Sutton. “Funds keep the doors of our emergency shelter open and our 24/7 crisis team operating. Many of our programs are unique in the county and provide services such as pro bono legal aid, trauma therapy for children, violence education in schools, and 24/7 support.”
The Coalition also runs the only Rape Crisis Center and 24-hour rape crisis hotline in Ventura County. During 2018, Coalition staff received calls from over 10,000 victims who were in crisis.
The Coalition For Family Harmony relies on grants and donations to operate. The November 2 event begins at 6:00 p.m. The evening includes dinner, dancing and auctions. Advance tickets are $90 per person and $165 per couple. To purchase tickets, go to www.CoalitionMasquerade2019.Eventbrite.com or call 805-983-6014
For more information about Coalition services and for event sponsorship opportunities, visit www.TheCoalition.org.