06/09/2026
GRATEFUL to HAWC; Healing Abuse Working for Change, for giving me the honor to represent the Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce as the Grand Marshal for their annual Walk fundraiser this past Sunday in Salem.
Over 400 people participated in the 5k walk and run. The energy was electric and it was so much fun!!
Why the GBCC? When HAWC Executive Director Sara Stanley said they chose me to be their Grand Marshal, it was because the GBCC, without hesitation, led a series of "Workforce IS a Domestic Violence Issue" forums to raise awareness that employees may experience abuse at work from their domestic partner but are too embarrassed to discuss it in fear of losing their job. As a business organization this is a topic few want to deal with, but it's a reality employers need to address if they care about the people who work for them. It was an opportunity to open a box of silence and shed light on an issue that IS happening.
This all started when David Thomson, Executive Director of Employers Against Domestic Violence approached me to discuss this issue several years ago. He is the reason for the opportunity I received.
The GBCC will continue to address this and other issues to educate our members to create a stronger and compassionate business community.
GRATITUDE ❣️
ABOUT HAWC:
For almost 40 years, HAWC strives to help abused women, children, men, and nonbinary people live free from violence and fear. As a leading domestic abuse agency in Massachusetts, HAWC provides a domestic abuse helpline, emergency shelter, legal services, advocacy and counseling services to more than 2,500 families in the North Shore area each year.
Beyond providing this help, HAWC advocates for social and cultural change. With one in three women and one in four men experiencing abuse each year, domestic abuse is an epidemic. To raise awareness and bolster prevention efforts, HAWC supplies the public with education, volunteer opportunities, annual community events, and frequent updates on related news and legislation.
