The problem of domestic violence is not a current problem. It’s a multi-generational tragedy. Like a hand-me-down, the abuse within the home is shared through the ages. Tackling the break in the generational cycle of violence has been the mission of the Genesis Women’s Shelter‘s HeROs (He Respects Others). To take their message to more in the North Texas community, Jennifer and Travis Armayor and The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated hosted “An Evening With Gentle Men” on Thursday, November 9, at Harlan Crow‘s breathtaking library. Here’s a report from the field:
Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support and its men’s group, Genesis HeROs (He Respects Others), hosted the second annual “An Evening with Gentle Men,” presented by Jennifer and Travis Armayor and The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated, on Thursday, November 9, 2017 at the Crow Library. Along with Event Co-Chairs Jennifer and Travis Armayor and more than 40 host committee members, the room was filled with 230 men and women who share zero tolerance for domestic violence.
Guests like Jesse Barnett, Chris Petrawski and Zach Townsend stepped into the elegant, historical library of Harlan Crow, surrounded by historical treasures dating back centuries. Antique cigar boxes overflowing with succulents were arranged by Dallas Petal Pusher, making the perfect centerpiece arrangements. Guests were treated to beer-tasting sponsored by Four Corners Brewing Company and complimentary shoe-shining. Glen Scotia and Loch Lomond scotch whisky were also available for tasting, courtesy of Mary Bowman Campbell. Attendees explored the three-story library, lingering in front of historical gems from figures like Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Dwight Eisenhower and Winston Churchill. Pianist Scott Willis played in the grand library, providing live entertainment sponsored by Crossmark.
The informal program began with a welcome by Genesis Women’s Shelter Senior Director of Fund and Community Development Bianca Jackson. Guests gathered in the main library, while attendees on the second story peered over the balcony to hear her remarks. Shortly thereafter, HeROs Board President Crayton Webb shared how men must be known as more than simply a part of the problem – in order to effect real change and make a difference in the fight against domestic violence, men must become a part of the solution by taking a stand. “Not in my home, and not in yours either.” Jennifer and Travis then closed with comments about having the tough, important conversations with the next generation – it is not enough that girls are taught how to protect themselves and stay alert, boys should be taught to respect and value women.
The rest of the evening was open for guests to mingle and network, and take in all the wonders of the library. Thanks to Ormsby Catering, attendees enjoyed heavy appetizers like Ahi Tuna sashimi, sweet corn empanadas, pulled pork and blue corn tamale tartlets, and individual beef bourguignon pot pies paired with a mushroom and port wine sauce. Nearly 20 men joined the HeROs organization during the event. Favor bags included men’s shaving cream and lotion thanks to gift sponsor Mary Kay, along with information on how to become involved with Genesis HeROs.
* Photo provided by Genesis Women's Shelter and Support