A message from the Director of the Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation, Sheila Rivest:
”May 12, 2018 will be the 4th annual Carol Rivest Memorial Fundraiser. I feel humbled by the love and support my family and I have received over the years. Having the annual fundraiser has given my family an outlet to celebrate Carol’s life. May is always a hard month for us due to the anniversary of Carol’s murder, May 11th. Even though Carol’s tragic story happened over 35 years ago, our family continues to heal and find a way to live with our loss. Welcoming family and friends to raise awareness of domestic violence has brought our family closer together.
I was blessed to have the support of my family and friends when making the Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation a 501(c) non-profit organization. Over the past few years, the foundation has been able to fund the installation of a brand new playground at a women’s shelter as well as provide them with an emergency fund. We have sent many children who have seen domestic violence to summer camp, an opportunity that they may not have had access to. The foundation has contributed to many women being able to be a part of a leadership program and has also funded various educational programs to bring awareness to domestic violence.
I am very proud of The Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation and I believe that Carol’s story has helped others, potentially saving lives. Carol’s story has inspired women to realize that they are in danger and need to leave a potentially hostile relationship. Thankfully, we have had women who feel comfortable enough to reach out to our board members, who were able help them find safety.
There have been so many reports of abuse in many forms in the news recently. Abuse of any kind is a vicious cycle that can be passed on from generation to generation. It is imperative that we break the cycle. Remember to love yourself. Take the time for family, be safe and have self-respect. Let’s teach our youth that they are loved and find a way to have respect for self and others.
With the help of our supporters, the Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation is able to help women get the tools necessary to recognize abuse and promote self love. The foundation can continue to grow with people like you joining our cause. My goal is to someday open a women’s shelter that teaches healthy coping skills, empowerment, and job skills. The shelter would provide safety for women, children and even pets, who sometimes get left behind.
Thank you, Carol, for being an amazing sister. The pride, love and guidance she gave me are unforgettable, and so is she. Please mark your calendars and join us in our quest to empower women and make relationships healthier and happier. “
Love, Sheila