From L-R: Powerhouse Workshops & Consulting Founder/COO Dr. Rachel Tourgeman, Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris, DVOB Director Elizabeth Regalado, Office of Community Advocacy Communications Director Griselle Marino, Global Innovative Foundation CEO Dr. Marie Etienne, Survivors Pathway Organization CEO Francesco Duberli, and Miami-Dade County CASHD Director Sonia Grice - At right, Female Development World Organization CEO Dr. Lavern Deer, St. Thomas University Professor Joanette Brookes-George, Elizabeth Regalado, Griselle Marino, and CASHD Social Services Administrator Lorena Toledo

MIAMI - The Miami-Dade County Domestic Violence Oversight Board (DVOB) participated in the Miami Gardens Police Department's 3rd Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk on Oct. 21, held in collaboration with community partners. The event raised awareness about domestic violence and highlighted the collective commitment needed to address this critical issue.

Turnout was impressive as community survivors, residents, law enforcement agencies, and organizations walked united in solidarity. Among the prominent participants were representatives from the Miami Gardens Police Department, City of Miami Gardens, Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD), Miami-Dade Public Library System, Miami Beach Police Department, Hialeah Police Department, Pinecrest Police Department, Global Innovative Foundation, Powerhouse Workshops and Consulting, Survivors Pathway Organization, Office of the State Attorney - Katherine Fernandez Rundle, and Share YOUR Heart.

Committed to enhancing and strengthening Miami-Dade County’s response to domestic violence, the DVOB actively collaborates with local stakeholders to create a safer community and was honored to be part of the impactful and inspiring walk. “By participating in the Domestic Violence Awareness Walk, we reaffirm our dedication to combating domestic violence and supporting survivors," said Miguel De Grandy, DVOB Chairman."It's crucial that we work together as a community to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster an environment where survivors are empowered to seek help. We thank our County Mayor and each of the Miami-Dade County Commissioners for their support.”

The walk commenced with a powerful opening ceremony featuring beautifully set tables with empty seats representing those who sadly lost their lives to domestic violence. Participants were inspired by the words of elected officials and community stakeholders and then embarked on a walk through Miami Gardens, symbolizing the collective journey towards ending domestic violence and fostering healthy relationships. The Domestic Violence Awareness Walk served as a platform for survivors to share their stories, highlighting the importance of community support and resources. Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to connect with various organizations and agencies to learn about available services, such as counseling, legal aid, and other lifesaving resources.

For more information or to request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, CART services, and/or any accommodation to participate in this meeting, please email DVOB Executive Director Elizabeth Regalado or call 786-498-5590. Follow the board on Facebook at @DVOBMDC.

The Office of Community Advocacy, operating under the Board of County Commissioners, oversees 12 advisory boards, including the Domestic Violence Oversight Board, as well as the Goodwill Ambassadors Program. The Office is committed to fostering a unified and inclusive community in Miami-Dade County. Stay updated by subscribing to our YouTube channel and follow @AdvocacyMDC on Facebook, Instagram, and X.