DEMOREST, Ga. — An evening of music, auctions and community support will take on a deeper purpose next month as Circle of Hope hosts its annual Denim and Diamonds gala, its largest fundraiser benefiting domestic violence survivors across Northeast Georgia.
The event is set for May 2 at The Venue at Broken Bridge Farms and will feature live music, dinner, dancing and both silent and live auctions, all aimed at raising funds to support the nonprofit’s wide range of services.
“This is more than a fun night out,” said Crystal Youngblood, Circle of Hope’s resource development director. “It’s about celebrating the services we’re able to provide and coming together as a community to support survivors.”
From fundraiser to flagship event
Denim and Diamonds is a relatively new tradition for Circle of Hope, now in its second year after replacing the organization’s previous signature fundraiser.
Youngblood said the event blends a relaxed and upscale atmosphere, with attendees encouraged to interpret the theme however they like — from jeans and boots to formal attire.
“You’ll see everything from denim and cowboy boots to full formal wear,” she said. “That’s part of the fun. People have the freedom to show up however they want and just enjoy the night.”
In addition to live entertainment and a DJ, the evening will include a program featuring survivor speakers and the presentation of the organization’s Hope in Action Award.
Funding critical, flexible support
While Circle of Hope receives grants and other funding, Youngblood said events like Denim and Diamonds are essential because they provide flexible dollars that can be used where needs are greatest.
“Every dollar raised from this event goes toward victims of domestic violence,” she said. “There are limits on what grant funding can cover, so this support allows us to fill those gaps.”
That flexibility can mean helping a survivor pay for child care while returning to work, covering car repairs or assisting with rent and groceries.
“It allows us to use our discretion to meet people where they are,” Youngblood said. “We help so many families throughout the year, and that money goes quickly. Events like this are monumental in keeping that support going.”
Services beyond shelter
Circle of Hope serves Habersham, Stephens and White counties, offering a range of free and confidential services to survivors.
While many people associate the organization primarily with its emergency shelter, Youngblood said its work extends far beyond that.
The nonprofit operates a 24-hour crisis hotline and provides counseling, legal advocacy, safety planning and multiple housing programs designed to help survivors move from crisis to stability.
“We want to get people from crisis to safety, and then from safety to stability,” she said.
Survivors do not have to enter the shelter to receive help. Some may seek assistance with protective orders or need support navigating the legal system, while others benefit from counseling or housing programs.
“A big part of what we do is just providing that support,” Youngblood said. “Domestic violence often isolates people from their families and support systems, so we’re there to help fill that gap.”
Raising awareness and understanding
In addition to raising funds, the gala also plays a key role in raising awareness about domestic violence and the challenges survivors face.
One of the most common misconceptions, Youngblood said, is the question: Why don’t they just leave?
“There’s a lot of misunderstanding,” she said. “Leaving is difficult — financially, emotionally, especially when children are involved. It often takes multiple attempts before someone is able to leave for good.”
Housing affordability remains one of the biggest barriers locally, she added, with rental costs often consuming a survivor’s entire income.
“When you add in child care and other expenses, it becomes extremely difficult,” Youngblood said.
By sharing survivor stories during the event, organizers hope to help attendees better understand those realities.
“When you’re not in that situation, it can be hard to grasp the impact,” she said. “Hearing directly from survivors helps bring that awareness.”
Community support makes a difference
Local businesses and community members play a critical role in sustaining Circle of Hope’s work, both through financial contributions and volunteer support.
Businesses often donate auction items, sponsor tables and help spread awareness of available resources. Volunteers assist with everything from shelter needs to operations at the organization’s thrift stores, which help fund its programs.
“It’s that combination of financial support and community involvement that really makes a difference,” Youngblood said.
An evening with purpose
For Youngblood, who has worked in roles ranging from direct client services to fundraising, the event represents both a professional milestone and a personal mission.
“I’ve seen firsthand the impact these funds can have on individual families,” she said. “Being able to help bring in those resources is incredibly important.”
Tickets for Denim and Diamonds are still available, with individual seats priced at $150. A limited number of sponsored tables remain, ranging from smaller group packages to larger corporate sponsorships.
Youngblood said the goal is simple: bring people together for a memorable night that also creates lasting impact.
“It’s a fun event, but it’s also meaningful,” she said. “We’re celebrating what we’ve been able to do — and looking ahead to how we can continue supporting survivors in our community.”
