A Hidden Epidemic

We should all be outraged about intimate partner abuse, which is violence against women 90% of the time. It’s often an invisible and tolerated behavior that has to stop.

Financial Wellness is Crucial for Survivors of Abuse

One in 4 women experience domestic violence in the United States, and nearly all of those cases include financial abuse. This is one of the primary reasons why victims are unable to leave an abusive partner or have to return to one.

The Power of Community

What’s immediately clear in Markie Hancock’s documentary about the origins of the Retreat, East Hampton’s domestic violence shelter, is that the three domestic violence survivors she features do not need anyone to speak on their behalf. What they need is to be heard.

Preventing Dating Violence Among Teens

You know those candy hearts with the cute sayings? The Retreat’s Teen Leadership Council, a group of East End students that explores healthy relationships through educational activities, honest conversations, and advocacy projects, has come up with an all new version with empowering phrases.

Honoring Joe O’Connell

To recognize this pillar of the community, The Retreat will place a plaque in Joe O’Connell’s honor at the entrance of his former counseling space in our East Hampton office.

You Will Be Okay

by Andrew Vass (Singer, Songwriter, Musician) I’ve always felt that the best songs seem to flow out of you effortlessly. That was the case with You Will Be Okay. After spending time with members of The Retreat staff earlier this year and meeting some of the most amazing, resilient, courageous survivors they have helped along the […]

The Power of Community

Originally published in the East Hampton Press, June 23, 2022, page 17. Photographs taken at the private screening of “The Power of Community: How One Small Town Stood Against Domestic Violence” on Sunday, June 19, 2022 at the Sag Harbor Cinema. Photos by Richard Lewin.