London Calling: Laura's House Gala Raises More Than $650,000 for Vital Domestic Violence Services

    LADERA RANCH, CA, September 29, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Saturday marked a "brilliant" evening of celebration and solidarity under the proud gaze of the Union Jack as more than 300 guests gathered at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach for the 22nd annual Laura's House gala. British fashion, style and music, complete with a Mick Jagger impersonator, filled the venue in support of the domestic violence nonprofit as its 'British Invasion' themed gala raised more than $650,000 for domestic violence victims with emergency shelter, community programs, legal advocacy services and more.

"Laura's House is tremendously proud to have served more than 50,000 victims of domestic violence and their families over the past 22 years," said Margaret Bayston, Laura's House CEO and executive director. "By continuing to share our message, provide a lifeline to families and with the continued support of our incredible community of backers, we will one day live in a world where domestic violence does not exist."

One of the evening's most powerful moments was Karen Stine's personal story of survival. Marrying the man of her dreams at 18, Stine endured manipulation, violence and abuse for eight years - until a violent episode led her to find strength. With the help of co-workers, Stine left her husband and rebuilt a life free of his control. She now works as a grants and contract administrator for Laura's House, and continually encourages others to live violence-free lives. She recently celebrated 18 years of service with the nonprofit.

During the program, two Laura's House supporters were recognized for their contributions to the nonprofit. This year's Corporate Crystal Heart Award was accepted by Urban Decay Cosmetics Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer Wende Zomnir. The prestige cosmetics brand headquartered in Newport Beach is a dedicated Laura's House partner. In 2015, Urban Decay Cosmetics donated $50,000 to the nonprofit as a part of its Ultraviolet Edge initiative to empower women and to encourage them to be unique. Zomnir declared another significant contribution to Laura's House in 2016.

Pam Jacobson, founder The Healing Sanctuary, was honored with the 2016 Crystal Heart Award for her company's unwavering support and service to Laura's House. The Healing Sanctuary focuses on the rejuvenation of the body, mind and spirit and provides a multitude of pro bono services to Laura's House staff, including yoga, stress management and self-care education. These valuable services are then taught by Laura's House staff to domestic violence victims so they can find hope and healing as they rebuild violence-free lives.

"This annual event is so important each year, and helps Laura's House sustain its life-changing programs for families affected by abuse," said Laura's House Board President Laura Khouri. "Unfortunately, the statistics are staggering, and nearly 12 million women and men annually continue to be victims, but together, we can stand against domestic violence."

Before the inspiring program, guests celebrated with British cocktails, classic rock 'n' roll tunes and a silent auction display filled with luxury experiences and items. A poignant video highlighting the tireless work of Laura's House volunteers, who contribute 16,000 hours annually, kicked off the evening's activities.

Following another successful gala, Laura's House will continue its important work - as a lifeline to domestic violence victims - throughout October to commemorate domestic violence awareness month. Advocates are encouraged to get involved in a host of initiatives and fundraisers by visiting http://www.laurashouse.org.

Presenting sponsors for the 2016 gala are Laura Khouri and Michael K. Hayde. Double Platinum sponsors include Argyros Family Foundation, The Jacqueline Glass Family, The Joe MacPherson Family, Nancy and Geoffrey L. Stack Family Foundation, Urban Decay and Verizon. Platinum Album sponsors are The David Ball Family, Laura & Mark Feld, Neudesic, Pacific Hospitality Group, Park Newport Apartments, Dick and Donna Pickup, The Thompson Foundation and Haskell & White LLP.

About Laura's House

The mission of Laura's House is to change the social beliefs, attitudes and the behaviors that perpetuate domestic violence while creating a safe space to empower individuals and families affected by abuse.

Over the past 22 years, Laura's House has provided shelter and support services to nearly 5,000 abused men, women and children and 24-hour crisis intervention, counseling, life skills education, and legal assistance to nearly 52,000 people. Connect with Laura's House on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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