News

On Saturday, October 3, Martin Luther King Jr. Park became a place of healing, and unity as community members gathered for Shine the Light, an annual domestic violence awareness event organized by Roslyn Collins, an alumna of Open Buffalo’s Emerging Leaders Class of 2025.

The event brought together survivors, families, advocates, and community supporters for a meaningful day dedicated to raising awareness, breaking the silence surrounding domestic violence, and reminding those impacted by abuse that they are not alone.

Emerging Leaders Making an Impact
This year's Shine the Light was also a powerful example of community leadership in action. Open Buffalo proudly served as a co-sponsor of the event, supporting Roslyn's continued efforts to bring awareness, and hope to the Buffalo community.

The event also served as a reminder that supporting survivors requires more than a single day of awareness. It takes ongoing compassion, accessible resources, strong community partnerships, and a collective commitment to creating safer environments for everyone.

Several Emerging Leaders alumni also came together to volunteer, contributing their time, energy, and talents to help bring the event to life. Their involvement highlighted the lasting relationships built through the program and the power of a leadership network that continues to show up for one another long after graduation.

We are proud of Roslyn and the Emerging Leaders alumni who helped make this event possible. Their leadership demonstrates what can happen when individuals use their voices, experiences, and connections to create meaningful change.

Together, we can continue breaking the silence, supporting survivors, and building communities rooted in healing, and hope.

Because when we stand together, we shine brighter.

Photography and event coverage by Ahrie Photography.