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E-Newsletter March 2024

Executive Director Beth Sturman to Retire after 19 Years

With gratitude, the Board of Directors of Laurel House announces the upcoming retirement of Beth Sturman as Executive Director. Beth will step down as Executive Director on or around October 31, 2024.

Ms. Sturman joined Laurel House as the Executive Director in the Fall of 2005. During her time with Laurel House, she has helped grow the organization in response to the evolving needs of the people in our community who are impacted by domestic violence and abuse. We are grateful for her strength and look forward to a future of service to our community. 

Recent Domestic Violence Incidents

in Montgomery County and Surrounding Communities

We at Laurel House would like to extend our condolences to the families and loved ones of Durdona Sultanova, Taylor Daniel, and Karen and Kera Gordon.

One of the most dangerous times for a victim of domestic abuse is at the time of separation from their abuser. Those who are abusive seek “power and control” over their partner. In attempting to leave, the victim is undermining their partner’s “power and control”. To a batterer, this is the ultimate defiance or betrayal. They may refuse to accept that their partner could or should live their life outside of their “power and control." This type of batterer feels justified in preventing their partner from leaving them by any means necessary.

In light of the news of recent domestic violence incidents in Bucks and Montgomery County, we want to remind everyone of the resources provided by local and national organizations in times of need:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: Create Your Personal Safety Plan

Laurel House: Resources

Join us for a Networking Social Hour!

We're thrilled to host the Montgomery County LGBT Business Council's monthly networking event on March 26 at 5:30 PM!

Join the LGBTQ+ and allied professionals of the Montgomery County LGBT Business Council for a happy hour networking event. Connect and chat with both members and non-members of the Council while connecting with business-minded individuals in Montgomery County and the greater Philadelphia area.

Journey to Freedom and Safety:

Domestic Abuse Awareness for Faith Communities

The Inter Faith Domestic Abuse Coalition presents Journey to Freedom and Safety: Domestic Abuse Awareness for Faith Communities.

This event recognizes the difficulty that faith leaders may have in addressing domestic abuse among their communities. Through panel discussions, break-out sessions, and interactive activities, faith leaders will gain an understanding of domestic abuse and will learn how they can make a difference.

Topics include:

Survivor Stories

Law Enforcement & the Criminal Justice System

The Psychology of Those Who Abuse

Stories from a Survivor, Advocate, and Minister

Foundational Teachings: Overriding the Challenges

Child Witnesses & Teen Dating Relationships 

Your Support in Action

Your support is a beacon of hope for survivors of domestic violence, providing crucial services as they navigate their journey towards hope and healing.

Your generosity empowers us to continue our mission of breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a safe haven for those in need.

Laurel House is delighted to share that our 25th Annual Gala will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the Sheraton Valley Forge.



Please join us to LIGHT THE NIGHT FOR HOPE & HEALING and enjoy a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing along with the opportunity to participate in a silent auction while learning more about the mission of Laurel House. All proceeds will fund our lifesaving programs and services for survivors of domestic violence.

We will be honoring CBIZ, Inc. and Dominic and Karen Conicelli, The Three Little Angels Foundation.

Join us for our annual Walk a Mile In Her Shoes®, an International Men’s March Against Rape, Sexual Assault, and Gender Violence. We are excited to welcome back our friend, and event emcee Preston Elliott from WMMR's Preston & Steve!

When: Saturday, May 4, 2024 

Where: Pfizer Collegeville Campus, 500 Arcola Rd., Collegeville PA

Time: Check In/Registrations begins at 9:00 am            

Registration: $35

Registration includes an event t-shirt, and heels (for men, if needed)

Family, friends, and four-legged friends welcome! 

Proceeds from the event will go to support Laurel House's domestic violence shelter and supportive services.

Join us at IBEW Local 98 for Drag Show Bingo on June 22, 2024! Drag Show Bingo is a day of Bingo, raffles, and live performances from some of Montgomery County’s fabulous performers.

We will be hosting two shows in the afternoon and evening, at 1 PM and 7 PM.

Drag Show Bingo tickets go on sale April 15! Stay tuned for more information.

In the meantime, gear up for our event with our EXCLUSIVE We Stand Together t-shirts!

For only $25, you can help us spread love and acceptance while looking fabulous. Our shirts are not just fashion statements but symbols of inclusivity and unity.

Laurel House provides services to anyone impacted by domestic violence and abuse. If you, or someone you know, is being impacted by domestic abuse, call Laurel House's confidential, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-642-3150 or text "HOPE" to 85511.

Not sure if you're experiencing abuse? You can still call. We're here for you.

Rated 4 Stars on Charity Navigator!