Gabby Petito's legacy fuels Collier County's fight against domestic violence

A group in Collier County is taking a stand against domestic violence with a unique approach. Gentle'men Against Domestic Violence has organized the 'Take a Stand' event to spread awareness and provide resources to victims in need.

Volunteers canvassed neighborhoods in Collier County on Tuesday morning, using door hangers to distribute information about available resources.

"It's called 'Take a Stand' event, where we gather men in our community to stand with the shelter as equal partners and end violence against women and girls," said Linda Oberhaus, CEO of the Shelter for Abused Women and Children.

The door hangers contain links to the Shelter for Abused Women and Children in Collier County.

Dan Bennewitz, chair of the 'Take A Stand' event, explained the volunteers' mission.

"Men who want to make a difference come here to give a few hours of their time, to hang door hangers, walk a few miles," said Bennewitz.

The volunteers aim to reach those in need with their efforts.

"Maybe we reach that person that needs that help or just needs some advice on who to call and know that the shelter is here right in Naples to help them," said Jim Schmidt, Gabby Petito's stepfather.

Schmidt traveled from Tampa to volunteer in honor of his daughter, Gabby Petito, who was murdered by her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, while traveling across the country in 2021.

"She was just such a great person. She really was. Miss her dearly," said Schmidt.

Five years after her death, Gabby's voice continues to inspire action. Her family founded the Gabby Petito Foundation.

"I would just hope that she knows how much we love and we support her, and that there are so many people that want to prevent what happened to her from happening to others, and that she's still loved and missed and not forgotten," said Schmidt.

The mission 'Together We Can' drives the fight against domestic violence and assists others whose loved ones are missing.

Each information placard placed in the 'Take a Stand' event serves as a potential lifeline for victims.

"People may be going through abusive situations, but they aren't aware of where they can get help," said Lloyd Bettis, chair of the board for the Shelter for Abused Women and Children.

"Once we do this canvassing, the number of calls that come into the shelter from that area increases dramatically," said Bettis.

The shelter's crisis hotline is available 24/7 at 239-775-1101. 

For more information on The Shelter's resources for domestic violence victims, click here.