As a local news organization, Patch covers stories of all kinds, from heartbreaking tragedies to nitty-gritty breakdowns of government and school district issues. But some stories are simply inspiring, often showing that at the heart of our communities is a desire to do good. Here are some of the touching headlines from the past seven days.
Domestic Violence Group Takes New Path With New Ad
The Retreat, a domestic violence services agency which also runs a shelter on the East End, has created a 30-second video to inspire men and boys to redefine masculinity and stand up to violence against women, which will be experienced by one in four women during her lifetime.
Using grant funds that were the first-of-its kind in engaging men to beat domestic violence, the video – titled "Beating the Odds" – will air locally during Monday Night Football and other male-oriented shows later this fall.
"Each time someone chooses to watch or share that video this month, he or she is making a statement: 'I care about ending domestic violence. I am a part of the solution to ending brutality against females,'" Jeffrey Friedman, the executive director of The Retreat, said in a statement Tuesday.
Non-Profit Aims at Raising Awareness of East End Non-Profits
Between a glitzy image of the Hamptons and serene, peaceful thoughts that come to mind when one thinks of the North Fork, a group of individuals who run non-profits on the East End have banded together to form one all-encompassing non-profit – All for the East End – with the goal of shining the spotlight on the role non-profits play in the area.
The group is planning on setting up a concert and fundraiser next August at Martha Clara Vineyards, and announced their formation on Monday.
“The East End is not all glitz and glamour as some people believe,” Levine said. “It’s composed of incredibly down-to-earth and supportive people, so we're trying to find a way to showcase what the East End is really like.”
Wesley Walker, a two-time Pro Bowler who played for the New York Jets from 1977 to 1989, will join the ranks of the team's "Ring of Honor" during halftime of Monday Night Football, when the Jets take on the Houston Texans.
Walker, a wide receiver, led the National Football League in receiving yards in 1978, with 1,169 yards. He is currently an elementary school teacher at Park View Elementary School in Kings Park, and a Dix Hills resident.
