Night of Hope fundraiser highlights survivors, honors advocate

Karla Grimsley Greenway honored as 2025 Advocate of the Year award on Sept. 25 Night of Hope event hosted by the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup. Photo courtesy of Cynthia Wilson Graham, M. Ed. Founder | Helping Hands Photography & Design Publishing, Inc.

Hundreds attended the annual Night of Hope dinner this week, hosted by the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup, to raise awareness and funds to combat domestic violence in Marion County.

Organizers estimated that one in four attendees were survivors of domestic abuse.

The evening featured powerful testimony from survivors and community leaders, as well as the keynote address from Melissa Dohme Hill, who shared her story of survival after being stabbed 32 times by an abusive former boyfriend in 2012.

Hill, of the Tampa Bay area, recalled how her ex-boyfriend asked for one last hug before attacking her. Two teenagers passing by intervened and called for help, ultimately saving her life. Hill has since become a nationally recognized advocate, speaking about domestic violence and serving as executive director of Hands Across the Bay.

“My abuser tried to bury me,” Hill told the crowd. “He didn’t know I was a seed. I chose to grow from the dirt I was left in and follow wherever God leads me to blossom and bloom.”

The event also honored Karla Grimsley-Greenway as Advocate of the Year for her longtime commitment to serving vulnerable residents. Her husband, Shane, introduced her with a heartfelt tribute, calling her “a true force for good in the world.”

Local survivors also shared stories of escaping abusive marriages and rebuilding after homelessness, underscoring both the challenges victims face and the importance of community support.

Organizers stressed that donations are critical in helping families in crisis. “I don’t know if you realize there is no hotel money in this community right now,” said Monica Bryant, who has led the Family Violence Prevention Workgroup for nearly two decades. “Community Action is not projected to have any utility money until October 1. There’s very little rental assistance or mortgage assistance.”

A moment of silence was held to remember victims who lost their lives to domestic violence. So far this year, three people in Marion County have died as a result of domestic abuse. Since 1997, 154 lives have been taken.

The group’s fundraising goal was $20,000. As of publication, it had raised $5,490. Donations can be made at mcchildrensalliance.networkforgood.com/events/88655-night-of-hope-2025.