Enfield Nonprofits Unite To Assist Domestic Violence Agencies

ENFIELD, CT — A pair of Enfield-based nonprofit organizations dedicated to providing support for women and children who are victims of domestic violence got together Tuesday to gather supplies that will aid two other similar agencies in northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts.

The Be the One Foundation, formed in 2018, purchased goods that will be distributed by the Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation to the Network Against Domestic Abuse in Enfield and Allianza in Holyoke.

The Network Against Domestic Abuse provides numerous services to women and children in crisis, including a temporary safe house which also offers counseling, legal information and victim/court advocacy. Allianza helps victims find emergency shelters, navigate the judicial system and build personal safety plans.

Be the One Foundation's mission is, "We want everyone to recognize the importance of stepping forward with their time, talents and abilities and “Be the One” to make a difference in the lives of others instead of standing idle and waiting for others to act."

The mission of the Carol Rivest Memorial Foundation is to "bring awareness of domestic violence, raise funds to provide education, and to promote healthy and happy relationships."

On May 11, 1982, 22-year-old Carol Diane Rivest was shot and killed by her estranged boyfriend and father of her young son. Her biography on the Foundation website describes her as "a very funny and charming mother, daughter, sister and friend. Carol had a big bright smile with dimples that would light up a room. She was a young devoted mother that took such pride in watching her son's growth. She was a very caring daughter and sister eager to help her family at any time. Carol had many friends who loved her zest for life and adventurous personality. Carol loved horses, dogs and all animals."

Rivest's sister Sheila is director of the Foundation. She wrote, "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 to help them find safety. "

Both Be The One and the Carol Rivest Foundation conduct several fundraising events each year to assist in their missions. More information about supporting the organizations and/or getting involved is available on their websites, bt1person.org and carolrivestfoundation.org.