Peace Begins at Home Dinner Celebrates Courage, Community, and Compassion
The 19th Annual Peace Begins at Home Dinner brought together community leaders, advocates, and supporters for an inspiring evening of celebration and hope at the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows on October 15.
This year’s theme, “Bet on Peace,” came to life in the casino’s Triple Crown Banquet Room, where elegant décor, shimmering purple lighting, and digital signage created a beautiful backdrop for the evening’s festivities. Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour, raffles, and a dinner program recognizing the incredible partnerships that help Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP) continue its mission of ending domestic violence by empowering survivors, raising awareness, and creating safer communities.
Honoring Outstanding Partners
DVSSP proudly recognized three Outstanding Community Partners for their extraordinary commitment to supporting survivors and strengthening community partnerships:
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Clint Iams, CEO and owner of Log Cabin Fence Company, for donating materials and leading volunteers from the North American Fence Contractor Association to install a new privacy fence at DVSSP’s Washington Safe House.
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Brian Gorman, Executive Director of Summit Legal Aid, for providing critical civil legal representation to survivors at Protection From Abuse hearings and generously sharing office space with DVSSP advocates.
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Nicole Mitchell, Executive Director of Flenniken Public Library, for her leadership and collaboration through the THRIVE Project, helping to make the library a welcoming space for art, cooking, and community programs that empower local residents.
An Evening of Inspiration
The highlight of the evening was hearing from keynote speaker Jen Pardini, who courageously shared her story of survival and healing after a violent attack by her ex-boyfriend. Her message of resilience and hope moved attendees and served as a powerful reminder of why DVSSP’s services are so vital.
Gratitude to Sponsors and Supporters
DVSSP extends heartfelt gratitude to all who made the event possible, including this year’s sponsors:
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Presenting Sponsor: Karen Yocca
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Advocate Sponsor: Highmark
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Survivor Sponsor: Southwestern Pennsylvania Eye Center
Peace Sponsors: First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County, Washington County Bar Foundation, Washington Financial Bank
Thanks to the generosity of event sponsors, donors, and attendees, the evening was a resounding success—raising both awareness and essential funds to sustain DVSSP’s programs across Washington, Greene, and Fayette counties.
“Every day, DVSSP places its bet on hope, healing, and the belief that change is possible,” said Megan Hegedus, Chief Executive Officer. “The outpouring of support we saw at this year’s dinner reminds us that peace isn’t left to chance—it’s something we create together through compassion and action.”
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