Partnership the Strengthens: Building a Network of Support for Survivors

Honoring Fellow Advocates 

The Circle of Advocates program began with the goal of honoring those whose work on behalf of survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence is rarely, if ever, heralded. As Chair of GBMC’s Philanthropy Committee, Heidi Kenny-Berman, Esq. was an early volunteer on the Circle of Advocates committee. She is keenly aware of the fact that, at every stage, advocating for survivors is work that is fueled by philanthropy. Supporting this program is “not just an act of generosity — it is a statement of shared responsibility,” she says. 

Kenny-Berman volunteered as a member of the Circle of Advocates Committee, reflecting on the extraordinary team whose expertise and compassion create a lifeline for survivors at their most vulnerable moments — and emphasized that their work is sustained by a community willing to stand behind them. “Safety, dignity, and healing,” she noted, “Should never depend on chance. They depend on philanthropy.  

In its truest sense, philanthropy means a ‘love of humankind.’ Through their generosity, donors ensure this essential program remains strong, accessible, and always here for those who need it most. “ 

Circle of Advocates Committee 

Heidi Kenny-Berman, Esq., Chair of GBMC’s Philanthropy Committee, GBMC HealthCare Board member 

Fred Chan, MD, Chief Medical Information Officer, Walk A Mile in Their Shoes, Co-Chair 

Carville Collins, Esq., GBMC Philanthropy Committee 

Alexis “Lucky” Thompson, Walk A Mile in Their Shoes, Co-Chair, GBMC HealthCare Board member 

Kate Flowers, Walk A Mile in Their Shoes Committee 

Laura Clary, MSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A, SANE-P, Sexual Assault Forensic Examination and Domestic Violence (SAFE & DV) and Child Protection Program Director 

Jenny Coldiron, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Marketing 

Kim Davenport, Senior Director of Community Engagement 

Greg Shaffer, Chief Marketing Officer 

Kate Thorne, Senior Director of Philanthropic Engagement 

Morgan Varley, Director of Annual Funding

Photo: Congratulating Circle of Advocates honoree Lisa Dever, Esq. (second from right) are, from left: Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott 
D. Shellenberger; Maryland District Court Judge Michael D. Siri; Maryland District Court Judge Susan Hazlett; and Executive Director of the 
Women’s Law Center of Maryland Katie O’Malley