Black dresses put a local organization into the black at a special fundraising evening in Vernon.
More than 270 women gathered May 25 at the Coldstream Community Hall for the return of the Black Dress Gala, presented by Nixon Wenger. It was the first time the fundraiser for the Archway Society for Domestic Peace had been held since 2019. The event raised $38,000 for the society's community programs, and support for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
"It was a celebration of empowering women in the North Okanagan community," said Sherry Demetrick, Archway co-executive director. “This funding will allow us to continue to provide community programs that allow for accessible and free counselling for women, children and families, outreach services for women in rural areas, victim support through the justice system and advocacy services for children and youth who have been abused or neglected.”
The Black Dress Organizing Committee would like to extend a thank you to all the event sponsors, as well as the volunteers who worked extremely hard to make the evening a success.
“This event is a big undertaking, but it is truly an amazing night of women coming together to support, encourage, inspire, and learn from each other and most important, look out for one another," said Demetrick.
Archway Society relies on the financial support of the community to carry out its mission, support its clients and create positive change in the community. They allow the society to develop, implement and sustain the programs, which are all free and open to anyone who needs support.
"We want to ensure that no one who is experiencing violence lacks the resources or ability to be safe and to access our support," said Demetrick. "We can be privately and securely contacted via phone, email, and social media, and encourage anyone who wants information about their options, support or immediate help should reach out to us."
More information on the society and its programs can be found at archwaysociety.ca.
