09-05-2025
The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence holds 14th annual awards ceremony
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence held its 14th annual First 100 Plus ceremony in Downtown Hartford Friday.
The event recognizes those making a difference in the lives of survivors of domestic violence.
'This work can be difficult, and it can you feel like you've made progress one day, and then gone backwards the next day,' President of CCADV Meghan Scanlon said.
Domestic violence victims get added layer of protection in Connecticut
It's a painful yet rewarding line of work for those like Jodi Baloga, who is the director of community services at Family Centered Services of Connecticut.
'There's very high highs and there's very low lows and it's very draining at times and it's very wonderful to be celebrating the great things going on in the community,' Baloga told News 8.
Baloga was one of 100 people, from lawyers to police officers, honored by the CCADV for their part in making a difference in the lives of survivors.
'If it's one person that I've made a difference for, that's good enough for me,' Baloga said.
Advocates at the event say this year there have already been a handful of domestic violence-related deaths, some of which involve children.
Last week, 12-year-old Branford boy Anthony Esposito was killed by his father during a domestic dispute with a baseball bat.
Former physician and state representative and Dr. William Petit, with the Petit Family Foundation, is working to raise awareness about domestic violence, with a focus on educating men.
'You've gotta start very young because we have dating violence occurring very young, as young as junior highs and high schools, and sometimes people are doing what they see at home,' he told News 8.
Dr. Petit was among those recognized for their contributions to the cause.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233.
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