VOICES 10th Annual Always Remember Gala was held on April 12 at the New York Athletic Club in New York City. Once again, the event was a wonderful success thanks to the support of so many. As always, there was a strong sense of community among the nearly 300 attendees, who came together to reflect, remember and support our work. We were thrilled to have Mike Greenberg, ESPN's award-winning journalist and broadcaster, serve as our Emcee. As a lifelong New Yorker, Mike set the tone for the evening of reflection and optimism.
In the wake of yesterday's shootings in Florida many schools have implemented police security. Parents in our local community are asking for guidance on how to answer their children's questions about the shootings and the increase in security, as well as addressing concerns about their safety.
VOICES Founding Director Mary Fetchet was recently featured in the CNN article A Force For Change: Coping with Grief Through Activism and Advocacy. Mary shared her personal story of finding meaning in tragedy.-
As the holiday season approaches and we gather with family and friends, we remember those who are no longer with us. Often times family traditions change after a loss, and we find new ways to celebrate the holidays and keep the memory of our loved ones alive. Personally, I have always found great joy in decorating for the Christmas season.
Every tragedy, big or small, leaves behind victims and loved ones whose lives are inalterably changed. In some cases, survivors find themselves driven to become activists or advocates, finding meaning in the tragedy by fighting whatever caused it. There are many examples making headlines all over the country. Chris Hurst was an evening news anchor at WDBJ in Roanoke, Virginia, when his girlfriend, Alison Parker, a reporter, and her cameraman, Adam Ward, were shot and killed during a live interview one morning in August 2015.