(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

It’s hard to go wrong with chocolate. That is even more the case when talking about an organization that gets so much right, as EVE Inc. does.

When supporters gathered over the weekend for the 37th annual EVE Chocolate Party fundraiser, they did so in search of a sweet treat, of course, but also with the aim of supporting an organization that makes a world of difference for survivors of domestic violence.

EVE Inc. also helps those who have survived sexual assault and human trafficking, providing shelter, counseling and other resources.

It was an event worth attending because those who have come in contact with the organization know how important it is.

“I have seen, firsthand, the help the EVE Shelter gives to a lot of people, a lot of victims of crime,” said Marietta Municipal Court Judge Randall Jedlink. “This is a good fundraiser.”

For Angie House, of Marietta, the event hit even closer to home. She was at one point a resident of the EVE Shelter.

“They let me move in there, and they helped me,” she said. “EVE helped me get my first place; they helped me with schooling and more. I don’t know what I would have done without them.”

She is now determined to help the organization any way she can, chocolate or not.

But chocolate does sweeten the pot, and the individuals and businesses such as Giant Eagle, Busy Bee, Holl’s Chocolate, Lisa’s Sweet Shop and the Village Cakery know it. Their contributions helped raise $2,600 to support the shelter.

Thank you, to them; and thank you to the folks at EVE who are there for those who have nowhere else to turn.