YWCA Spring Breakfast Brings Nashville Community Together to Break the Cycle of Domestic Violence

 NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 7, 2019)—Seventeen years after escaping an abusive marriage, a Nashville mother shared her story of survival, hope, and healing with 1,000 guests at the YWCA Spring Breakfast on Tuesday, April 30.  Elia Bass was joined on stage at the Music City Center by her 20-year old son, Roy Tapia. He shared his experience at the Weaver Domestic Violence Center as a then four-year-old child. (Click here to view their video)“I remember the garden and the playground. To me, the Weaver Center looked like a beautiful hotel,” Tapia said. “It was a place that felt like home. It was a place where I could be myself and make friends. But most importantly, it was a place where I felt safe.”The Spring Breakfast is an annual event showcasing the important work YWCA does in the community. YWCA is the largest provider of domestic violence services in the region, operating the Weaver Center, a 65-bed emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, adult and children’s counseling, community support groups, and transitional housing.“One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime,” YWCA President and CEO Sharon K. Roberson told the Spring Breakfast crowd. “Our community is facing a crisis, and we are grateful for the partners we have to reduce the incidences of violence and abuse and stop the cycle that impacts thousands of women, children, and families each year.”In addition to raising funds for the YWCA’s domestic violence services programs, proceeds from the Spring Breakfast support the organization’s innovative prevention program for boys and men, AMEND Together and the long-time empowerment program for girls and young women, Girls Inc. Madison Middle School 8^th grader Patrick Thompson explained how important the AMEND program is to him and the young men who are learning about healthy masculinity and respect. Antioch High School senior Alexis Sarawan told the crowd how Girls Inc. has helped her find her voice and use it. All speakers received standing ovations. (Click here for Patrick's and Alexis' video)“The Spring Breakfast shows the true heart of Nashville and how our city is embracing the mission of the YWCA,” said event producer and YWCA Board Member Hannah Paramore Breen. “Each year, I’m blown away by the generosity and compassion of the Nashville  community and its desire to keep women, children, and families safe.”Eighty individuals stepped up to host tables, bringing friends and supporters to the breakfast. The Belmont Women’s Choir performed for the fourth year in a row and closed the event with Amazing Grace. 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., AMEND Together, Dress for Success and the Family Learning 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 ###