Sometimes the most powerful gifts exchanged aren’t the ones wrapped in paper or tied with bows, but are rather the gifts of hope, healing and second chances. Those were the true treasures celebrated at the eighth annual Christmas Banquet to benefit the Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach, held at the festively adorned Oak Harbor Club.
The evening brought together some 170 guests with the shared purpose of supporting the Christ-centered mission of the Women’s Refuge, which helps hurting individuals find restoration through biblical counseling.
Before dinner, guests mingled over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while browsing an impressive selection of donated silent auction items, and afterward, the focus shifted to testimonials about lives transformed.
“This year we have four returning residents who will be talking about how their time at the Refuge impacted them and their future,” said Diane Ludwig, executive director.
“Change can be difficult, yet it can also be beautiful. You’ll hear stories of individuals who trusted God’s word, embraced it, and lived it out in faith. Each of them will share how God met them in their distress, filled them with hope, and led them toward healing,” she added.
Lori Stanwood, who traveled from Michigan to share her journey, said that when she first got to the Refuge her life felt like it was unraveling.
“When I came to the Women’s Refuge, I was a wreck,” said Stanwood.
“My marriage was failing, and one of our children had chosen a different path that resulted in a broken marriage at the same time. That left my other child and his wife heartbroken, and my grandchildren are still struggling with the changes in their family life. Our family was blown apart. I was looking for peace,” said Stanwood, adding that she found it almost immediately.
“My soul was refreshed at the very sight of the grounds with all the trees, the flowers. I was welcomed and loved by strangers.”
Stanwood’s experience proved so impactful that it reshaped her future. She continued her training in biblical counseling and has since opened a counseling center at her church, helping others find healing through God’s word and offering the same hope she once received.
Another powerful testimony came from Christian and Vicki Borghini, who once believed their marriage was beyond repair. Vicki initially sought help at the Women’s Refuge on her own, and later Christian joined her for counseling sessions. What began as a last attempt to salvage their relationship became a turning point.
Their lives and marriage were forever changed and today the couple is joyfully looking ahead to celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary in May.
Autumn Carlson’s story was one of early struggle and remarkable redemption. Just 18 years old when she first sought help at the Women’s Refuge, Carlson described a difficult childhood and deep confusion about her identity. She initially participated in a two-week program, but soon realized she needed more time.
“I went into the three-month program, which was lifechanging. They changed my life, and my kids’ lives,” said Carlson, who today is a registered nurse and a foster parent to a 17-year-old.
The Women’s Refuge offers programs ranging from two weeks to two years, providing sanctuary in a safe, home-like environment. Trained counselors guide women, men and families through biblical counseling designed to bring emotional, mental and spiritual healing. Their goal is transformation; teaching individuals how to live fruitful lives with renewed perspectives about themselves, God and others.
Photos by Kerry Firth
