The Pembina Crisis Connection Society (PCCS) in Drayton Valley is holding its inaugural Purple Lights Gala on Nov. 1, an opportunity to support an organization helping those who experience domestic violence.
The event kicks off its Purple Lights Campaign, a community initiative encouraging residents and businesses to display purple lights as a visible symbol of commitment to ending family violence. The organization will be hosting other awareness activities and showing up around the community throughout November as well.
The gala takes place at 5:30 p.m. at the MacKenzie Conference Centre, blending entertainment and advocacy to raise funds for the PCCS.
“We provide support to individuals who are experiencing domestic, gender-based, or intimate partner violence, navigating getting food or income, and navigating different supports they might need,” explained Trisha Howes, PCCS Program Director.
The organization also provides information on elder abuse, suicide prevention training and assists clients in navigating relevant legal processes, which is a new program.
The fundraising goal for the gala is $35,000, which would support all the services offered by the organization. In particular, though, Howes hopes to allot some towards clients’ transportation and grocery needs, especially while food banks are managing increasing demand.
Tickets are $125 or $950 for a table of eight. The event includes a buffet dinner and fully stocked bar, a live auction, casino games, tasting booths, DJ entertainment and appearances by local celebrity guests.
If a gala isn’t quite your speed, there are many other ways to show your support throughout the coming month.
On Oct. 25, the Drayton Valley Thunder will wear purple jerseys during their home game against the Calgary Canucks, which will then be auctioned off at the gala. Attendees are also encouraged to wear purple to show their support.
PCCS will be attending other Thunder home games during November to sell purple lights and purple hockey-themed merchandise as well.
Purple light bulbs will also be available at local retailers. Residents and business owners are encouraged to display purple lights in their windows or storefronts during the month to show solidarity with violence survivors and send the message that “violence has no place here,” Howes said.
“It doesn’t have to happen to you to matter,” she added, and explained that domestic violence is on the rise in the community, according to RCMP reports.
You can reach out to the PCCS for more information about the organization, the programs it offers, and how to show support.
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