YWCA Greenwich’s 20th Annual Old Bags Luncheon Raises $1+ Million for Harmony Project

YWCA Greenwich hosted the 20th Annual Old Bags Luncheon on May 1 at the Belle Haven Club. Led by co-chairs Erica Bens, Cecilia Lieberman, Sarah Simmons and Natalie Stein, the 20th anniversary of the organization’s biggest fundraiser was a smashing success, raising over $1 million dollars for the Harmony Project, Greenwich’s sole provider of both domestic and sexual violence services.

The event included an exciting live auction of 10 designer handbags auctioned off by Caitlin Davis and modeled by Greenwich Police Department and Greenwich Emergency Medical Service officers. There was also an enthusiastic paddle raise and a robust silent auction of over 125 bags.

YWCA Greenwich honors an outstanding woman with an award for their impactful role and tremendous support of the Harmony Project. This year, the organization honored Lauren Walsh with the recently renamed Patricia Trompeter Purple Purse Award. Lauren has attended all 20 OBLs and served as an event co-chair eight times. Her dedication to YWCA Greenwich and the Harmony Project is extraordinary.

Author of Dear Sister: A Memoir of Secrets, Survival, and Unbreakable Bonds, Michelle Horton, was the guest speaker of the event’s 20th anniversary. Michelle spoke about her sister’s journey through domestic violence and how the court system failed her at each step. She continues to be an advocate of domestic violence and speaks out for victims that are criminalized for their acts of survival.

“We are so proud to have hosted the 20th Old Bags Luncheon and to have reached this milestone. This event is critically important to fund the free services provided by our Harmony Project, so we thank everyone who has supported the event, especially those who continue to attend year after year,” said YWCA Greenwich President and CEO Mary Lee Kiernan. Lead corporate sponsors for this special event included Chiffique, Darcars and Lugano Diamonds.

About YWCA Greenwich: Founded in 1919, YWCA Greenwich is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. YWCA Greenwich provides programs for people of all ages and genders with initiatives that include preschool and after school programs, aquatics programs, youth athletics, health and fitness programs and seminars focusing on racial justice and women’s empowerment. Additionally, YWCA Greenwich is the only provider of both domestic and sexual violence services in Greenwich, with staff who are licensed to provide crisis intervention, counseling, shelter, and victim advocacy. These services are free.