Fundraiser supports those impacted by domestic violence
Yellow Brick House will host its 2nd Celebration of Resilience annual fundraising event on May 7 at Angus Glen Golf and Country Club.
Yellow Brick House provides life-saving services along with prevention programs that help support communities, individuals, and families who are impacted by domestic violence. Core programs include a crisis support line, emergency shelter, and support services for women and children — all focused on breaking the cycle of abuse and rebuilding lives.
Attendees will enjoy an evening featuring York Region’s finest local restaurants, entertainment, an impactful survivor story, and silent and live auctions.
Lorris Herenda, CEO of Yellow Brick House, highlights the event’s mission: “Celebration of Resilience is an incredible event, celebrating the strength of the women and children we serve, honouring those whose voices have been silenced and raising funds for unfunded shelter beds that will help save lives of abused women and children.”
One of the evening’s most powerful moments will be the testimony of Laura, a survivor of domestic violence, who will share her personal journey of resilience.
“Looking back, I realize I have been trapped in a cycle of abuse my entire life—first witnessing it in my childhood, then enduring it in my own relationships,” Laura said. “My second husband’s abuse escalated over time, from insults to physical violence. I kept it hidden, convincing myself I had to endure it for the sake of my children. It wasn’t until a close friend, noticed my bruises and asked the right questions that I finally admitted I needed to seek help. She told me about Yellow Brick House, a place that could help me leave safely and rebuild my life.”
Laura credits Yellow Brick House with helping her find the strength to leave, heal from her trauma, and break the cycle of abuse for her children.
“Their counselling and support gave me the strength to leave for good and navigate the terrifying reality that abuse doesn’t stop the moment you walk away—it often escalates,” she said. ‘With their help, I learned to stand my ground, heal from my trauma, and rebuild my life. Most importantly, I broke the cycle for my children. Today, I am free, thriving, and in a healthy relationship built on mutual respect. Yellow Brick House saved my life, and I want others to know—help is out there, and you don’t have to do this alone.”
Visit yellowbrickhouse.org for more information.
*Story submitted by Christina Manserra.