Community members gathered to honor victims and survivors of domestic violence at the sixth annual HOPE Candlelight Vigil on Thursday at Morton Park.

Angie Hunt, housing program director for HOPE of East Central Illinois, said the organization hosts the event not only as a way to observe those who have been victimized, but also a way to raise awareness for an often unspoken cause.

“We need to put a face to it,” she said. “It’s important that we know domestic violence can happen to any one of us.”

Hunt said the event is designated as an outlet for victims and survivors to speak out against abuse.

She said the victims’ response is overwhelming, yet empowering.

“It’s powerful,” she said. “It’s heartbreaking, but it’s also victorious. You go through every emotion.”

Hunt, who survived domestic violence 20 years ago, said the statistics of abuse are unacceptably high, and that it is her mission to provide those looking for shelter and a way out of their current situation.

“That’s what helps women,” she said. “We’ve got to get them to a safer place and life.”

Hunt said she is especially inspired to hear family members of survivors speak at the event.

“They appreciate the support,” she said. “It means a lot to them to publicly honor their loved ones.”

Domestic violence survivor Kelly Rardin described the event as “amazing,” saying it is a way for domestic violence survivors to have their voices heard.

“It brings up a lot of memories, but it also enables you to rise up. You know you’re not alone,” she said.

Rardin, who also shared her personal story of domestic violence at the vigil, said her ex-husband of 21 years physically and emotionally abused her.

However, through the support of HOPE, she was able to rise above his abuse.

“It’s a cycle,” Rardin said. “If you don’t stop it, it will never end. I will never let a man treat me like that again.”

Camille Gordon, a HOPE employee for the past six years, said she appreciated the support of the community attending the event to take a stand against abuse.

“I love being here for the women,” she said. “That’s why we do it. We have people with us every day. It’s never easy.”

Gordon said the abuse does not stop with adults. She said women coming to HOPE often bring their children into the shelter for safety as well.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she said. “A lot of times (going to HOPE) is the first time they’ve ever felt safe. It’s nice to see a weight lifted off their shoulders.”

Brenda Rowling, a HOPE employee for 18 years, said she enjoys the satisfaction of knowing the organization helps give hope to those affected by domestic violence.

“It’s rewarding to see someone get on with their life and have us help them to do that,” she said.

Local band Motherlode performed at the vigil.

Also at the vigil was the Clothesline Project, a creative outlet in which women decorate shirts to express their thoughts on surviving abuse.

Kaitlyn Cobb, a senior psychology major and intern at HOPE, worked closely with the Clothesline Project.

“It lets them express how they’re feeling and stand up to domestic violence,” she said.

Erika Butler, a junior business management major, said she came to the event as a way to show her support for survivors.

“It’s important to build empowerment and build confidence in women,” she said.

Josh Nugent, a senior psychology major and member of Delta Chi, said he personally knows women who have been affected by domestic violence.

“It’s an important topic that needs to be addressed,” he said. “It’s an issue that happens all over.”

Sammy Sheely, a freshman biological science major, said she was glad to see such a large crowd in support of the event.

“It’s a shock,” she said. “It’s good to see a lot of people here because it helps bring more of an impact.”

Sara Hall can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].