(PADUCAH, Ky.) — May 22, 2026 — Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center took home three honors at the 2026 Purple Ribbon Awards, a global ceremony recognizing leaders in the domestic violence movement. The Purchase Region’s state-designated domestic violence shelter and resource center was named a winner in the categories of Outstanding Partner in a Collaborative, Outstanding Young Professional, and Volunteer of the Year.
The awards were presented May 21 during a virtual celebration hosted by Alliance for HOPE International, the nonprofit organization behind DomesticShelters.org. Now in its fifth year, the Purple Ribbon Awards program draws nominations from around the world, honoring advocates, volunteers, survivors, organizations, and community supporters.
Chef Sara Bradley received the Outstanding Partner in a Collaborative award for her work with Season & Shadow, a social enterprise that benefits survivors at Merryman House. Bradley develops the spice blends sold under the brand, while survivors in the center’s care handle the blending, packaging, labeling, and fulfillment. The program is designed to build marketable job skills in logistics, order fulfillment, and sales and marketing, helping participants pursue higher-wage employment as they reenter the workforce.
Brianna Weitlauf, Director of Grants & Compliance at Merryman House, was named Outstanding Young Professional. A member of the organization since 2014, she now leads a team of four professionals, overseeing the agency’s funding portfolio and ensuring data quality, accountability, and compliance across the organization. “Receiving the Purple Ribbon Award is a tremendous honor and affirms that my contributions remain meaningful to the important work of keeping survivors safe,” Weitlauf said.
Tiffany Mesaris was recognized as Volunteer of the Year. A volunteer since 2024, Mesaris has continued dedicating herself to survivor-centered service even while facing her own leukemia diagnosis. “What a blessing to be recognized for walking in your purpose,” she said. “I love helping these beautiful ladies at the Merryman House in any way I can.”
Megan Counce, Assistant Director of Mission Advancement at Merryman House, said the triple recognition reflects the power of community partnership. “These awards reflect what can happen when we all come together with a shared purpose,” Counce said. “We are deeply grateful for every partner who has stood beside us.”
Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center serves survivors of domestic violence across the Purchase Region. For more information, visit merrymanhouseky.org.
