Safe Voices, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, will be holding its annual Fall Fête and Community Awards on Friday, October 19th. The event, which will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn Riverwatch in Auburn, aims to honor community leaders who have made significant contributions to both the agency and the communities it serves.
Among the honorees are Rep. Kristen Cloutier of House District 94 and the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit of the Androscoggin County District Attorney’s Office. Rep. Cloutier will receive the agency’s Kimberley Wilson Community Transformation Award for her work in developing and passing a Paid Family & Medical Leave program for the state. She has also been recognized for her efforts to support survivors of domestic abuse, sex trafficking, and sexual exploitation, as well as her dedication to local nonprofit agencies.
The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit of the Androscoggin County District Attorney’s Office will be receiving the Community Partner Award. This award acknowledges the team’s commitment to ensuring justice for survivors and holding offenders accountable. The unit has also been recognized for its ongoing partnership with Safe Voices in advocating for survivor-identified needs.
Two individuals will also be honored at the event. Ralph Poland, an Auburn resident and long-time volunteer with Safe Voices, will receive the Volunteer Impact Award. Poland has not only dedicated over a decade of his time to the agency but has also provided support and mentorship to others who have experienced brain injuries.
Kimberly Bailey, a shelter lead case manager at Safe Voices and a resident of Lewiston, will be awarded the Shining Star Staff Award. Bailey is being honored for her leadership within the organization and her advocacy for the rights and needs of survivors.
The Fall Fête and Community Awards event will have a sliding scale ticket price, with prices starting at $25. For more information or to purchase tickets, individuals can contact Grace Kendall, the Safe Voices Director of Development and Engagement, at gkendall@safevoices.org or visit the organization’s website.
Safe Voices is excited to recognize and celebrate these community leaders for their outstanding work in supporting survivors and their dedication to creating safer communities.
