“I was a client of The Retreat for many years, and they helped me reach my goal of independence, which I think every woman that suffers from domestic violence strives for,” guest speaker Amy Cerullo shared with Hamptons.com. “So, thank-you to them and thank-you to all these donors and amazing people that come out to this event, to celebrate the cause.”
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Lucia Davis and The Retreat Executive Director Loretta Davis. (Photo: Nicole Barylski) |
On Saturday, June 20th, The Retreat, the East End’s only comprehensive domestic violence services agency, celebrated the 20th anniversary of their All Against Abuse benefit (formerly known as Artists Against Abuse). Held at the Ross School Lower Campus Field House in Bridgehampton, attendees, donning their finest 20’s inspired garb, toasted to the milestone during the “Roaring 20’s Summer Soiree.”
Event guest speaker and former client of The Retreat, Amy Cerullo, felt thrilled to be able to give back to the organization. “When I first sat down at The Retreat, in the chair at the table, and I was actually a client, I told them, ‘This will all come back to you. One day, when I’m on my feet, you’re going to get this back,'” said Cerullo. “And, this is my only way I have to give right now,” she noted about the benefit. “There’s nothing better than seeing a room full of people that are willing to give to such a confusing, misguided, it’s got a stigma on it cause.”
Complete with old Hollywood glam decor, the evening included music by DJ MKL of Jarrell Entertainment, event design by Maria McBride, cuisine by Chef Colette of Inn Spot on the Bay, and a live and silent auction, which featured a one week stay in the Disney family’s Coolmain Castle in Ireland for 20 people, a garden tour and cocktail party at Ina Garten’s East Hampton barn, five days in Costa Rica, a weekend at Round Hill Villas in Jamaica, artwork from local artists, and more.
“We are very excited,” noted The Retreat Executive Director Loretta Davis, about the event. Originally, the benefit started with artists who made plates that were sold, with proceeds benefiting the East End organization. “It was artists who got together to raise money for The Retreat,” she reflected while standing in the packed room. “So, look what’s happen.”
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Platters by Barbara Maslen and Grant Haffner. (Photo: Nicole Barylski) |
Of course, this year’s event still auctioned off hand-painted plates, which were created by Paton Miller, Barbara Maslen, and Grant Haffner.
“Well, I think the event is spectacular,” The Retreat Board Member Barbara Shapiro told us. “I think we’re doing a really great job at The Retreat. I’m so pleased to see that so many of the guests have gotten into the Roaring 20’s theme.”
For more information, visit www.theretreatinc.org.
