Strength in Action Takes the Spotlight on WTNH: Empowering Our Community Through Self-Defense and Awareness
Ellafi Federal Credit Union joined Brittany Taylor on WTNH News 8 alongside self-defense expert Kayla Stomberg to highlight the importance of personal safety, confidence, and community support during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and encourage conversations that can help create safer, stronger communities.
At Ellafi Federal Credit Union, we believe empowerment goes beyond financial wellness. It's also about helping individuals feel confident, informed, supported, and equipped with resources to navigate life's challenges.
That's why we were excited to join Brittany Taylor on WTNH News 8, alongside Kayla Stomberg, Owner and Head Instructor of 360 Defense Martial Arts in Middletown, to discuss the importance of self-defense and share more about our upcoming Strength in Action: Self-Defense, Safety & Messages of Hope event.
During the segment, Kayla demonstrated practical self-defense techniques, offering viewers a glimpse into the skills and confidence-building experiences attendees can expect at Strength in Action.
We're grateful to Brittany and the WTNH News 8 team for providing a platform to bring greater awareness to domestic violence prevention, personal safety, and the importance of community support.
Watch Our WTNH News 8 Segment
Building Confidence Through Self-Defense
Self-defense is about more than physical techniques. It's about awareness, recognizing potential risks, understanding your options, and building the confidence to respond to challenging situations.
With more than 18 years of martial arts and self-defense experience, Kayla brings valuable knowledge and a passion for helping people develop practical personal safety skills.
As one of our featured presenters at Strength in Action, Kayla will lead an interactive mini self-defense class, giving attendees an opportunity to learn techniques and build confidence in a supportive environment.
While self-defense education can be a valuable tool, we also recognize that domestic violence is complex and that responsibility for abuse always rests with the person causing harm. Education, access to resources, and strong community support all play important roles in helping survivors find safety and support.
Join Us for Strength in Action on October 18
The conversation doesn't stop with our television appearance.
On Sunday, October 18, 2026, Ellafi Federal Credit Union and Ellafi Kind will bring the community together for Strength in Action: Self-Defense, Safety & Messages of Hope at IMPACT Middletown.
This special event is designed to raise awareness, share practical resources, and create meaningful conversations around domestic violence prevention, personal safety, financial wellness, and supporting survivors.
Hosted by Mimi Gonzalez, the event will feature local experts, community advocates, and interactive experiences, including Kayla's mini self-defense class. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with organizations providing important resources and support.
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Time: 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
- Location: IMPACT Middletown, 25 Industrial Park Road, Middletown, CT
- Admission: $20 per person
- Ages: 12 and older
- Includes: Educational presentations, self-defense mini-class, community resources, and brunch
Proceeds from ticket sales will support Ellafi Kind's efforts to assist domestic violence survivors.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Through Ellafi Kind, we're committed to helping create stronger, safer communities by supporting initiatives focused on domestic violence awareness, housing stability, and empowering individuals and families.
A special thank you to Brittany Taylor and the WTNH News 8 team for helping shine a light on this important conversation, and to Kayla Stomberg for sharing her knowledge and helping us spread a message of confidence, safety, and empowerment.
Whether you join us at Strength in Action, share resources with someone who needs them, or simply start a conversation, every action can help build a stronger circle of support.
Learn more about strength in action event
Silence Doesn't Help. Support Does.