YWCA Spring Breakfast Brings Community Together to End Domestic Violence

  NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 27, 2018)—More than 1,000 friends and supporters of YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee gathered at the Music City Center on Tuesday, April 24 to hear stories of survival, empowerment, and inspiration. Guests donated over $300,000 to the YWCA during the hour-long event. The  Spring Breakfast is an annual event that showcases the important work the YWCA does in the community.“The YWCA provides critical services to individuals and families fleeing domestic violence,” said YWCA President and CEO Sharon K. Roberson. “One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Our Weaver Domestic Violence Center is filled to capacity nearly every day. We are facing a crisis, and are grateful that the community is responding.”The Spring Breakfast spotlighted YWCA’s prevention programs, Girls Inc. and AMEND Together. SpeakersJaida Kline, a senior at Hunters Lane High School and Hillsboro High School sophomore Josiah Peek spoke about the positive impacts of these programs have had on their young lives. Lindsey Lance shared her personal story of survival from domestic violence and the support she received from the YWCA to help rebuild her life. All speakers received standing ovations.“This breakfast shows that our community is embracing the mission of the YWCA and realizing the important role we play in keeping women and families safe,” said Hannah Paramore Breen, YWCA board member and Spring Breakfast producer. “Our goal is to extend the reach, understanding and support for the YWCA by showing the community the impact we are having on people’s lives.”In addition to operating the largest domestic violence shelter in the state of Tennessee, the YWCA answers more than 6,000 calls each year on the 24-hour Crisis & Support Helpline, individual and children’s counseling, community support groups and education.Ninety individuals stepped up to host tables, bringing friends and supporters to the breakfast. The Belmont Women’s Choir performed “Can’t No Grave Hold My Body Down” to open the Spring Breakfast and “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” to close the event. Nissan, LP Building Products, and HCA/TriStar Health provided generous corporate support.About YWCA Nashville & Middle TennesseeFor 120 years, YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee has helped women, girls and families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee build safer, more self-sufficient lives. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Programs include Domestic Violence Services, Girls Inc., MEND, j k livin, Dress for Success and the Family Literacy Center. For more information, visit www.ywcanashville.com, follow us on twitter @YWCANashville and find us on Facebook facebook.com/YWCANashville.The YWCA’s 24-Hour Crisis & Support Helpline is 1-800-334-4628.