Caring Connections Presents Special Event with Educator Jess Michaels
CARING CONNECTION WELCOMES
EPSTEIN SURVIVOR | EDUCATOR JESS MICHAELS -
AND HER PROGRAM “VOICES EMPOWERED”
TO SUPPORT THE EMPOWERMENT CENTER
FOR DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS IN BERRIEN COUNTY
Caring Connection will present a special evening with Epstein Survivor and Educator Jess Michaels on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Shadowland Pavilion, 333 Broad Street, St. Joseph, MI. In her presentation, Voices Empowered, Ms. Michaels will share her experiences and how she survived and now thrives.
As the founder and driving force behind 3 Joannes Sexual Assault First Aid, she teached people to “know what to say when someone says ME TOO.” Through her work, Jess equips individuals and communities with the tools to minimize the devastating long-term effects of sexual violence.
Jess’ message complements the mission of The Empowerment Center of Caring Connection which supports, encourages and empowers victims of sexual and domestic assault in Berrien County.
The October 1 date was selected to acknowledge the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness month and its connection to the mission of Caring Connection. .According to Robin McGinnis, CEO of Caring Connection, "The funding levels for all domestic and sexual violence agencies in Michigan have been severely impacted due to the loss of federal funding for the State. The Empowerment Center is posed to lose about 38% of the dollars to operate the 23-bed shelter, advocacy services and support for victims of abuse in Berrien County. Therefore, this kind of fundraising event is critical to Caring Connection continuing our work in the community."
All guests may enjoy a beverage from the cash bar before they are seated. The 7:00 PM program will be followed by dessert, coffee, conversation and community as guests are encouraged to linger and share thoughts on Jess' message.
Reviews for her presentations are glowing with such praise as: “[Ms.} Michaels brings captivating storytelling with inspired imagery and passion. She instantly grabs the hearts and minds of her audience and leads them through her anecdotes and experiences with empathy and compassion.”
You can read more about Jess Michaels here: https://www.jessmichaelsspeaks.com/
You can view her TED talk:
Limited Sponsorships are available to support this event and the work of Caring Connection. Sponsors will be included in a pre-program, intimate VIP Reception that includes wine, light bites and an opportunity to meet Ms. Michaels. Contact Loretta Hillock 269-213-5505 or lhillock@caringconnectionmi.org
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here: https://www.caringconnectionmi.org/events
For more information contact Denise McGowan Tracy at 312.719.4734 or by email: dmcgowantracy@caringconnectionmi.org
Caring Connection has been serving southwest Michigan for more than 135 years. Focusing on the needs of Berrien, Van Buren and Cass Counties, Caring Connection operates the domestic and sexual violence programs for Berrien County; provides specialized services seniors with cognitive and mental health challenges, and guardianship services.
Empowering | Advocating | Supporting | Since 1891 Advocating
- Supporting - Since 1891
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is held each October. Communities and advocacy organizations across the country connect with the public and one another throughout the month to raise awareness about the signs of abuse and ways to stop it, and to uplift survivor stories and provide additional resources to leaders and policymakers.
