The Domestic Violence Crisis Center’s 22nd Annual Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon takes place May 16 at the Tokeneke Club in Darien, and tickets are on sale now.
The keynote speaker will be Michelle Horton, whose journey into advocacy for domestic violence victims when her sister, Nikki Addimondo, was incarcerated and initially sentenced to 19 years to life in prison for defending herself against her abuser.
Addimondo’s sentence was later reduced, and she was released in January, after an appeals court said she proved her claims of abuse.
— an announcement from the Domestic Violence Crisis Center
Voices of Courage luncheon attendees will hear Michelle’s compelling narrative, followed by a conversation with Suzanne Adam, CEO of DVCC.
Michelle Horton’s life took an unexpected turn in September 2017 when her sister was jailed for shooting her partner. What followed was a shocking revelation of years of hidden abuse and Michelle’s unwavering commitment to not only care for Nikki’s children but also to lead a public campaign for her sister’s freedom.
Through the Nicole Addimando Community Defense Committee, Michelle has tirelessly advocated for Nikki and many others criminalized for acts of survival against domestic violence. Nikki’s release from prison in January 2024, marks a significant victory, reuniting her with her family and supporters.
“Having Michelle share her and Nikki’s powerful story at our luncheon is a profound honor,” Adam said. “Their story underscores the importance of our work to shine a light on this issue and provide critical support for survivors.”
Where the Money Raised Will Go
Proceeds from the luncheon support DVCC’s lifesaving services and prevention education programs. The organization offers 24-hour crisis intervention, emergency safe housing, adult and child counseling, legal advocacy and housing and financial sustainability services.
Last year alone, DVCC served 3,254 victims of domestic violence and provided prevention education programs to 13, 397 individuals in our community. All of DVCC’s direct services are free, confidential, multilingual and multicultural.
The Domestic Violence Crisis Center’s mission is to prevent and eliminate domestic violence by educating our communities and supporting individuals in building safer lives. the prevention and elimination of domestic violence.
DVCC is the sole, state-certified provider of domestic violence services for Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. Our services are free, confidential, multilingual, and multicultural, designed to cater to the needs of all domestic violence victims.
If You’re Going …
The event is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the picturesque Tokeneke Club at 4 Butlers Island Road, Darien.
Event sponsorships and tickets may be purchased at DVCCCT.org. Tickets are priced at $200.
For further information and details about the event, please contact Jennifer Hagen at JHagen@DVCCCT.org or call (203) 918-4394.