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On Wednesday, May 22, the Pace Women’s Justice Center (PWJC) hosted its annual Cocktails for a Cause fundraiser at the waterfront Barley Beach House, gathering community leaders, advocates, and supporters to help raise vital funds for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse.

The event, which came at a critical moment as domestic violence cases continue to rise across Westchester County and nationwide federal funding for domestic violence services remains under scrutiny, served as both a celebration of resilience and a call to action. Guests enjoyed an evening of signature cocktails, raffles and auction items, and heartfelt stories that underscored the importance of PWJC’s mission and legal advocacy.

“Our work is more urgent than ever,” said Cindy Kanusher, Executive Director of PWJC. “Survivors in our region are still facing rising rates of violence and abuse, and it is essential that we remain equipped to meet them with legal tools, advocacy, and unwavering support. With the help of our community, we’re proud to serve more than 3,500 clients each year with free, trauma-informed legal services that protect lives and restore hope.”

The evening also featured heartfelt remarks from longtime PWJC ally and advocate Alayne Katz, Esq., whose tireless work to honor the legacy of her sister Gail—tragically murdered by her abuser—continues to drive awareness and change. Gail’s story was the inspiration behind PWJC’s original office, lovingly known as “Gail’s House,” and remains a powerful symbol of the justice PWJC continues to strive for every day.

“In early 2001, the Center memorialized Gail’s life by naming their offices Gail’s House, giving Gail a symbolic resting place,” said Alayne. “The then-Dean explained that the Center’s work with survivors of domestic violence could and would give full meaning to Gail’s too-short life. The Center has made good on that promise. They have become the largest civil legal services provider in this County, specializing in domestic violence and elder abuse. The Center’s services are often the difference between healthy families and broken lives and tragic fatalities.”

Also in attendance were Vedat Gashi, Chairman of Westchester Board of Legislators and Nancy Barr, Chair of the Human Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Families Task Force for the Westchester Board of Legislators.

“What people don’t necessarily understand is that elected officials… don’t necessarily know the subject matter like [PWJC] does… if we really want to understand the subject matter, we have to go to the experts,” said Nancy Barr, Chair of the Human Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Families Task Force for the Westchester Board of Legislators. “[Cindy] has done a fabulous job over the years of explaining why what you do at PWJC is so, so important. We have supported PWJC every year at the County Legislature, and we really believe in the partnership between government and nonprofits. This is a particularly fantastic partnership between a local organization and county government.”

This year’s Cocktails for a Cause raised over $16,000, ensuring that more survivors will gain access to emergency orders of protection, custody and divorce representation, and critical elder justice support.

PWJC thanks its generous sponsors, host committee, and every guest who helped ensure this mission continues.

Waves of Change Sponsor:

Shifting Shores Sponsors: Jane Aoyama; ; Jacqueline Hattar, Esq.;

Ripple Effect Sponsors: Apple Bank; Falcon, Rappaport, & Berkman, LLP; Patricia Hennessy, Esq; Jackson Lewis; Orange Bank & Trust Company; PCSB Community Foundation

Host Committee: Lauren C. Enea, Esq. (Event Co-chair) Sarah DeRise; Jacqueline Hattar, Esq.; Cindy Kanusher, Esq.; Alayne Katz, Esq.; Alyson Kuritzky, Esq.; Stella King, Esq.; Jana Kosberg-Kleidman, Esq.; Samantha A. Lyons, Esq.; Melissa McMonagle; Amanda Rieben, Esq.; Rachel Shehy