LACASA Center’s second annual fundraising gala, Purple Reign: A Royal Evening of Purpose, was a night to remember as hundreds of guests came together at Crystal Gardens Event Center in Howell on Oct. 24 to celebrate survivors, honor community champions, and raise vital funds for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual violence.
In recognition of the color of national Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the purple-clad crowd enjoyed a royal-themed evening featuring dinner and dancing, silent and live auctions, a jewelry raffle courtesy of Cooper & Binkley Jewelers, and a powerful testimonial from a domestic violence survivor.
“At a time when federal and state funding have created shortfalls, our community once again showed up in a truly magnificent way,” said LACASA President and CEO Bobette Schrandt. “Every donation, every bid, and every act of generosity at our Gala helps ensure that victims and survivors in Livingston County have a safe place to heal and rebuild their lives.”
During the evening, LACASA proudly recognized three outstanding award recipients who exemplify the organization’s mission:
• Phoenix Rising Award – Youth Advocate of the Year: Brighton High School 2025 Senior Survivors
This inspiring group of students raised nearly $90,000 in one week to support local nonprofits, including LACASA. Their creativity, compassion, and leadership demonstrate the power of young people to make a lasting difference.
• Wings of Service Award – Volunteer of the Year: Shannon Keesler
A former client turned dedicated volunteer, Shannon Keesler embodies the heart of LACASA’s mission. Her joyful spirit and tireless efforts at events, the LACASA Collection charity resale boutique, her online advocacy, and across the community make her an invaluable part of the LACASA family.
• Spirit of LACASA Award – Business Partner of the Year: Lake Trust Credit Union
Honored for their long-standing partnership and unwavering support, Lake Trust Credit Union has gone above and beyond to advance LACASA’s mission—through financial literacy programs for survivors, volunteer service, and leadership on the board of directors.
Video tributes for each awardee can be found HERE.
LACASA extends heartfelt thanks to its many sponsors, donors, and attendeeswho made the evening possible, especially presenting sponsors Judy & Bert Herzog and E.P. Wealth Advisors with support from Brighton Ford and Revival RN. The collective generosity of the event helps sustain LACASA’s comprehensive services — from the Crisis Shelter and counseling to prevention, education and community outreach — all provided under one roof and free of charge to victims and their families.
As the community reflects on Domestic Violence Awareness Month, LACASA reminds everyone that hope, healing, and safety reign when we stand together.
