Chrysalis, a shelter for those who have been affected by domestic violence, is hosting its ninth-annual Driving Out Domestic Violence Gala and Golf Tournament Nov. 15 and Nov. 16. After nine years, the event has blossomed into a major philanthropic event, raising over $2.5 million for Chrysalis programs and their victims. AZ Foothills spoke with president and CEO of Chrysalis, Patricia Klahr, as well as host of the gala, Lauren Teahen, about their amazing achievements.
Chrysalis started out of a home for victims of abusive situations. As the need for an actual shelter grew, Chrysalis came about and started housing individuals while providing resources and care based around situation and need. It has been 37 years, and Chrysalis has now helped more than 1,000 people rescue and restore their lives. Klahr says, “We are much more than an emergency shelter, and I think that’s what makes us unique.” Chrysalis offers a wide variety of programs such as counseling, community education and a safe place to live for up to four months. “Nobody chooses to be in a shelter type setting,” says Klahr, “but our shelter is pretty amazing.” Chrysalis focuses on the entire circumstance, not only working with the victim, but also with the offender. Their unique approach to care and well-being is unparalleled and celebrated annually at the Driving Out Domestic Violence Gala.
There are many ways to get involved with Chrysalis and its volunteering program. Teahen says she began volunteering in 2010 and noticed that there was something missing. In an attempt to discover what was needed, she collaborated with Chrysalis to create the Driving Out Domestic Violence Gala. The event started in a backyard and the fundraising goal was $70,000. It was such a success that they ended up raising just over their goal. In honor of her mother passing away, who was also a victim of domestic violence, Teahen felt inspired to become a part of something bigger. The Gala was exactly the ticket. From then on, the event took on a whole new meaning for Teahen and Chrysalis. Teahen is deeply moved by the fact that, “every year more and more people share their stories.” It is important to be vulnerable because you’re never alone and there is always accessible help.
The 2019 Driving Out Domestic Violence Gala and Golf Tournament will take place on Friday, Nov. 15, and Saturday, Nov. 16. Registration begins at 9 a.m. on Friday, and the Gala will commence at 6 p.m. on Saturday evening at Ross Aviation. $500 per couple, $275 per guest for open seating, and $2,500 for a reserved table. To learn more about Chrysalis and the Driving Out Domestic Violence Gala, click here.
