Changing Lives Gala 2025

On Thursday, October 16, 2025, HAVEN welcomed more than 200 passionate supporters to its annual Changing Lives Gala at The Envio. Together, we raised a record-breaking $200,000 to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence across Rockingham and Strafford counties—an evening that truly embodied our theme: Stay.

A Night of Courage, Connection, and Commitment

The sold-out event featured keynote speaker Tito Jackson, former Boston City Councilor, joined on stage by both his birth mother, Rachel Twymon, and his adoptive mother, Rosa Jackson. Alongside HAVEN Executive Director Kathy Beebe, they shared a deeply personal and powerful call to action—reminding us that healing is possible, and that community is essential.

Held during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the gala honored the resilience of survivors and the strength of those who stand beside them. Tito’s story—of reunion, revelation, and advocacy—moved the room to tears and to action. His message to men in particular was clear: step up, speak out, and be the change.

“To my brothers in this room... I challenge each of us to step forward and not be bystanders... I need for us to become the change agents that will stop violence against everybody.”

Rachel Twymon’s testimony was a raw reminder of why HAVEN exists today:

“There was no HAVEN for me…there was nowhere that I could go…there wasn’t anyone to help me. But by the grace of God, I stand here today."  

Building Dignity: A New Chapter Begins

This year’s gala also marked the public launch of Building Dignity: The HAVEN Capital Campaign—a bold and historic initiative to establish HAVEN’s first permanent home in its 46-year history.

In partnership with Christ Episcopal Church and Portsmouth Housing Authority, the new center will introduce a groundbreaking model for transitional shelter—one that brings safety and dignity into the heart of the community. Co-located with HAVEN’s prevention and support services, this space will offer survivors a place to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

We were honored to have Martha Fuller Clark, Building Dignity’s Honorary Chair, in attendance, along with many of HAVEN’s board members, volunteers, and longtime donors.

Your Impact

Thanks to your generosity,  HAVEN will continue to provide:

• 24/7 crisis support

• Emergency shelter and permanent housing

• Prevention education for over 13,000 K–12 students annually

• Camp HOPE and Pathways for children impacted by trauma

• Family rebuilding programs for survivors

  
  

  We hope to see you all again next October!