In recognition of Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month, YWCA Greenwich’s Harmony Project will be holding a Community Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, October 21st, 6:30 PM at 259 East Putnam Avenue in Greenwich, CT. The vigil will memorialize those who have lost their lives due to domestic violence, as well as honor the strength and resilience of survivors within our community.
Each year YWCA Greenwich honors an individual or group with the Purple Ribbon Award, which is presented at the vigil. The award acknowledges a commitment to support survivors of domestic violence and work to make lasting change. YWCA Greenwich announces that the 2025 Purple Ribbon Award recipient is Demetria Nelson, LSCW. As Commissioner of the Greenwich Department of Human Services, Demetria Nelson, LCSW has worked tirelessly to support the most vulnerable residents of Greenwich including YWCA Greenwich Harmony Project clients. In addition to providing funds for YWCA Greenwich’s Violence Prevention Education programs in Greenwich Public Schools and BANC after school program at New Lebanon School, GDHS staff work closely with Harmony Project staff on referrals and community resources.
Director of the Harmony Project, Jacqueline Collazo, said, “This vigil gives us a moment to pause and recognize the pain that often goes unseen. But more than that, it allows us to stand in solidarity with survivors to say: We see you. We hear you and you matter!”
While domestic violence continues to be the number one violent crime in our community, Demetria and the rest of GDHS continue to work in conjunction with the Harmony Project to help put an end to domestic violence. Harmony Project offers free domestic abuse and sexual violence services at YWCA Greenwich, including counseling, crisis intervention, emergency shelter, criminal court advocacy, and a 24/7 hotline.
