A community coming together to raise awareness, support survivors, and inspire meaningful change.
On Sunday, October 18, Ellafi Federal Credit Union and Ellafi Kind brought the community together for Strength in Action: Self-Defense, Safety & Messages of Hope, an inspiring event focused on domestic violence awareness, personal safety, mental and financial wellness, and the power of community support.
Held at IMPACT Middletown during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the event welcomed attendees, community partners, and industry professionals for a meaningful morning of education, empowerment, and connection. It was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose: to support one another and create a stronger, safer community.
Meaningful Conversations, Practical Tools, and Messages of Hope
Throughout the event, attendees heard from an incredible group of speakers who shared valuable insights and practical tools to help individuals feel more informed, confident, and supported.
Mimi Gonzalez, founder of Creator House, hosted the event and guided conversations around mental wellness, hope, and resilience, reminding attendees of the importance of connection and community.
Kathleen "Kasey" Harding of Community Health Center's New Horizons Domestic Violence Services shared important information about domestic violence prevention, recognizing warning signs, and how we can better support survivors.
LaQueshia Clemons, LCSW, AFC®, explored the connection between money, mental wellness, and overall well-being, highlighting the important role financial confidence and independence can play in building stability and resilience.
Jimmy LaCasse of Middletown Police Department provided practical personal and home safety tips, offering simple steps attendees can take to feel safer and more prepared in their everyday lives.
One of the day's highlights was an interactive self-defense experience led by Kayla Stomberg, owner and head instructor of 360 Defense Martial Arts. Attendees had the opportunity to learn and practice techniques designed to build awareness, confidence, and personal safety skills.
Beyond the presentations, one of the most touching parts of the event was the Messages of Hope activity. Attendees wrote heartfelt words of encouragement, strength, and support for individuals who may need to hear them. As the messages filled the display, they became a beautiful visual reminder that even a few thoughtful words can make a meaningful difference in someone's life.
More Than Banking. A Commitment to Community.
At Ellafi, we are proud to be a different kind of financial institution. We believe financial empowerment goes hand in hand with personal safety, mental wellness, and creating a community where everyone feels supported.
Strength in Action was a reflection of that belief and of the mission behind Ellafi Kind, our community initiative focused on supporting young girls, housing stability, and domestic violence survivors.
By bringing together experts, advocates, community organizations, and individuals who care deeply about making a difference, we hope to continue creating opportunities for important conversations, meaningful education, and lasting community connections.
Thank You for Being Part of Something Special
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who attended and supported Strength in Action. Thank you to our incredible speakers for generously sharing their time, expertise, and compassion; to Mimi Gonzalez for hosting and bringing such warmth and purpose to the day; and to our community partners for helping make this event possible.
We also want to recognize the Teen Advocacy Council at Girls Inc. for being part of this meaningful day and helping bring youth voices and perspectives to the conversation. Their involvement was a wonderful reminder of the importance of empowering the next generation to advocate for themselves and others.
A heartfelt thank you to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) for joining us and sharing their presence and support. Organizations like CCADV play an essential role in raising awareness, connecting individuals with resources, and advocating for survivors throughout Connecticut.
A special thank you to IMPACT Middletown for welcoming us into their wonderful space and providing the perfect setting for a day of connection, learning, and empowerment.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who participated, shared a Message of Hope, engaged in meaningful conversations, and showed their support for Ellafi and Ellafi Kind.
Strength in Action was more than an event. It was a reminder that awareness creates understanding, connection builds community, and together, we can turn compassion into meaningful action.
Relive the Moments
From powerful conversations and hands-on learning to heartfelt Messages of Hope, we're grateful for every moment shared.
Watch our Strength in Action recap video below and experience some of the moments that made this day so special.
Keep the Hope Going
The conversation doesn't end here. Through Ellafi Kind, we remain committed to empowering women, supporting survivors, and strengthening the communities we serve.
Learn more about Ellafi Kind or make a donation to support our mission.