Alina’s Light is a charitable organization established in honor of Alina Sheykhet, whose life was tragically taken in a senseless act of violence in October of 2017. Alina was passionate about theater and performing arts, and she loved children and animals. The mission of Alina’s Light is to honor Alina’s legacy by raising awareness & promoting domestic violence education through outreach, scholarships & donations.
Alina was loved beyond words and brought light into the lives of many. Her spirit remains with us, and she will live on through our hearts, memories, and stories. Alina will always guide and inspire us.
Providing outreach, support & hope to our local community and beyond.
Read the latest & follow on Social Media!
A huge THANK YOU to our new friends at Lamar Advertising Company for their support. We had a wonderful meeting with two very kind people yesterday and are looking forward to working with them in the near future! @lamaradvertisingcompany
A huge THANK YOU to our new friends at Lamar Advertising Company for their support. We had a wonderful meeting with two very kind people yesterday and are looking forward to working with them in the near future! @lamaradvertisingcompany
Although the new age of social media has brought more connection and convenience, it has its downfalls when it comes to bullying and dating violence. According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, over one quarter (28.1%) of teens who had been in a romantic relationship in the past year have experienced digital dating violence.
This can lead to depression, suicidal thoughts, and other serious consequences. We need to start having conversations with our youth about healthy relationships and safety on social media. 💜
Although the new age of social media has brought more connection and convenience, it has its downfalls when it comes to bullying and dating violence. According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, over one quarter (28.1%) of teens who had been in a romantic relationship in the past year have experienced digital dating violence.
This can lead to depression, suicidal thoughts, and other serious consequences. We need to start having conversations with our youth about healthy relationships and safety on social media. 💜
We would like to take a moment to shine the spotlight on one of our amazing board members – Nick Amrhein. Nick’s is an avid history buff pursuing his master’s in American history; He is also an educator who shares his passion with his 8th-grade students at Deer Lakes. His favorite writer is H.W. Brands. Nick brings a unique perspective to our team and we are greatly appreciative for his support!
A Montour grad who walked the same halls as Alina, Nick’s connection to her story is personal. They shared good times during high school and college, memories that he holds close to his heart. It’s this personal touch that Nick brings to Alina’s Light, always ready to roll up his sleeves and help out wherever he can.
It’s not just Nick you’ll see at our volunteer events – his family is often right there with him, showing what a family effort truly looks like. His dedication over the years has been nothing short of inspiring.
So here’s a massive thank you to Nick – for the hard work, the heart, and the soul you pour into our cause. Alina’s Light shines brighter because of your commitment. We’re beyond grateful for your support, and we know that together, we’re making a real difference.
#TeamAlinasLight #alinaslight
We would like to take a moment to shine the spotlight on one of our amazing board members – Nick Amrhein. Nick’s is an avid history buff pursuing his master’s in American history; He is also an educator who shares his passion with his 8th-grade students at Deer Lakes. His favorite writer is H.W. Brands. Nick brings a unique perspective to our team and we are greatly appreciative for his support!
A Montour grad who walked the same halls as Alina, Nick’s connection to her story is personal. They shared good times during high school and college, memories that he holds close to his heart. It’s this personal touch that Nick brings to Alina’s Light, always ready to roll up his sleeves and help out wherever he can.
It’s not just Nick you’ll see at our volunteer events – his family is often right there with him, showing what a family effort truly looks like. His dedication over the years has been nothing short of inspiring.
So here’s a massive thank you to Nick – for the hard work, the heart, and the soul you pour into our cause. Alina’s Light shines brighter because of your commitment. We’re beyond grateful for your support, and we know that together, we’re making a real difference.
#TeamAlinasLight #alinaslight
What a turnout we had at the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event! Seeing so many folks come out to support the cause was truly something. A big shoutout to the Pitt Greensburg team for bringing their A-game – your commitment to walking for all the women and girls affected by domestic violence is truly inspiring.
Year after year, this event brings us together to put on those 👠red high 👠heels and take strides down Maple Avenue. Those heels? They’re not just a bold fashion statement – they’re a walk in the shoes of women, a step into understanding the real challenges they face every day.
This year’s theme, “Unity Is Strength,” couldn’t have been more on point. With each step, we’re not just raising awareness; we’re taking a stand. And seeing everyone’s sleeves with Alina’s name was a powerful reminder of why we walk – to remember and to rally against the violence that has touched too many lives including our dear Alina!
Thank you to all who organized, participated, and supported this event. Your presence speaks volumes, and it’s actions like these that build the path to a safer, more understanding world. Let’s keep this spirit alive and continue to stand up against domestic violence, together.
#WalkAMile #EndDomesticViolence #StrongerTogether
What a turnout we had at the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event! Seeing so many folks come out to support the cause was truly something. A big shoutout to the Pitt Greensburg team for bringing their A-game – your commitment to walking for all the women and girls affected by domestic violence is truly inspiring.
Year after year, this event brings us together to put on those 👠red high 👠heels and take strides down Maple Avenue. Those heels? They’re not just a bold fashion statement – they’re a walk in the shoes of women, a step into understanding the real challenges they face every day.
This year’s theme, “Unity Is Strength,” couldn’t have been more on point. With each step, we’re not just raising awareness; we’re taking a stand. And seeing everyone’s sleeves with Alina’s name was a powerful reminder of why we walk – to remember and to rally against the violence that has touched too many lives including our dear Alina!
Thank you to all who organized, participated, and supported this event. Your presence speaks volumes, and it’s actions like these that build the path to a safer, more understanding world. Let’s keep this spirit alive and continue to stand up against domestic violence, together.
#WalkAMile #EndDomesticViolence #StrongerTogether
Last night we came together, lighting 212 candles( each representing a victim ) and sharing a moment to remember those we’ve lost to domestic violence. Big thanks to Woman’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh for organizing this event, and to our Mayor for standing with us. Seeing everyone there, with all those names and a sea of candles, really was a surreal experience. It’s tough that we have to meet like this, but it matters more than you know. Your support means everything—as a community, we’re making sure none of these amazing people we’ve lost are ever forgotten. Together, we remember and honor all the beautiful souls lost.
Thank you all so much for joining us in this beautiful memorial night despite the downpour!
#EndDomesticViolence #CommunityUnited @wcs_pittsburgh
Last night we came together, lighting 212 candles( each representing a victim ) and sharing a moment to remember those we’ve lost to domestic violence. Big thanks to Woman’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh for organizing this event, and to our Mayor for standing with us. Seeing everyone there, with all those names and a sea of candles, really was a surreal experience. It’s tough that we have to meet like this, but it matters more than you know. Your support means everything—as a community, we’re making sure none of these amazing people we’ve lost are ever forgotten. Together, we remember and honor all the beautiful souls lost.
Thank you all so much for joining us in this beautiful memorial night despite the downpour!
#EndDomesticViolence #CommunityUnited @wcs_pittsburgh
“I think that all the silence is worse than all the violence”
– Lupe Fiasco
Join us tomorrow for a night of remembrance and unity. @wcs_pittsburgh is holding a candlelight vigil to honor lives lost to domestic violence. It’s their 50 year anniversary! Wow - 50 years of serving those experiencing partner violence in Allegheny County! Let’s stand together: 6pm-7pm at 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA.
Wear purple to show solidarity, and bring the names of those you wish to honor. Our Wall of Dolls will be there to remind us of each precious life. Together, we’ll light the night with hope and remembrance. See you tomorrow!
#CandlelightVigil #EndDomesticViolence #AlinasLight
Join us tomorrow for a night of remembrance and unity. @wcs_pittsburgh is holding a candlelight vigil to honor lives lost to domestic violence. It’s their 50 year anniversary! Wow - 50 years of serving those experiencing partner violence in Allegheny County! Let’s stand together: 6pm-7pm at 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA.
Wear purple to show solidarity, and bring the names of those you wish to honor. Our Wall of Dolls will be there to remind us of each precious life. Together, we’ll light the night with hope and remembrance. See you tomorrow!
#CandlelightVigil #EndDomesticViolence #AlinasLight
In life’s quiet moments, we don’t always grasp the value of time until it’s gone. Today, on Crystal Leschner’s birthday, her family isn’t celebrating – they’re preparing for a trial, seeking justice for her life that ended too soon. Her legacy of love and strength inspires us to act.
We honor Crystal with our Alina’s Dolls project, where each doll stands for a life lost to domestic violence. As her family faces the court, we stand united with them. Crystal’s spirit and the love she spread endure in our hearts.
If you’re struggling with domestic violence, please know you’re seen and not alone. Crystal’s story is a call to reach out, support, and educate. We aim for a world where love is safe, and home is a refuge.
We hold Crystal’s memory close and support her family as they step into the courtroom next week with her bravery in their hearts. 💜 #JusticeForCrystal #EndDomesticViolence #AlinasDolls
In life’s quiet moments, we don’t always grasp the value of time until it’s gone. Today, on Crystal Leschner’s birthday, her family isn’t celebrating – they’re preparing for a trial, seeking justice for her life that ended too soon. Her legacy of love and strength inspires us to act.
We honor Crystal with our Alina’s Dolls project, where each doll stands for a life lost to domestic violence. As her family faces the court, we stand united with them. Crystal’s spirit and the love she spread endure in our hearts.
If you’re struggling with domestic violence, please know you’re seen and not alone. Crystal’s story is a call to reach out, support, and educate. We aim for a world where love is safe, and home is a refuge.
We hold Crystal’s memory close and support her family as they step into the courtroom next week with her bravery in their hearts. 💜 #JusticeForCrystal #EndDomesticViolence #AlinasDolls
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Every 9 minutes, that victim is a child. Only 25 out of 100 of those perpetrators will be convicted and end up in prison for their crimes. Sexual violence is another tool often used by a users to control their victim. It is incredibly important that we, as a society, validate victims, both women and men. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual violence, you are not alone, and help is available. We believe you. 💜 (statistics provided by RAINN)
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Every 9 minutes, that victim is a child. Only 25 out of 100 of those perpetrators will be convicted and end up in prison for their crimes. Sexual violence is another tool often used by a users to control their victim. It is incredibly important that we, as a society, validate victims, both women and men. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual violence, you are not alone, and help is available. We believe you. 💜 (statistics provided by RAINN)
Abuse can show up in different ways, and sometimes it’s only emotional abuse, while other times it is a mix of both physical and emotional. But if we learn what the signs are, we can spot them:
𝗥𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝗼 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁: Someone who sweeps you off your feet right away and says things like, “You’re the only one who has ever made me feel this way,” might be pushing too hard, too soon.
𝗖𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗢𝗳𝗳: If they’re trying to turn you against your family and friends or blaming them for trouble, that’s a method of isolation.
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: If they like to throw you around or hold you down during sex without your consent, that’s not just rough—it’s abusive.
𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀: If they never take responsibility and always blame someone else when things go wrong, that’s a problem.
𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀: …..Read the rest of the signs on our latest blog post!
https://alinaslight.com/alinas-light-cares/
Abuse can show up in different ways, and sometimes it’s only emotional abuse, while other times it is a mix of both physical and emotional. But if we learn what the signs are, we can spot them:
𝗥𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝗼 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁: Someone who sweeps you off your feet right away and says things like, “You’re the only one who has ever made me feel this way,” might be pushing too hard, too soon.
𝗖𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗢𝗳𝗳: If they’re trying to turn you against your family and friends or blaming them for trouble, that’s a method of isolation.
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: If they like to throw you around or hold you down during sex without your consent, that’s not just rough—it’s abusive.
𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀: If they never take responsibility and always blame someone else when things go wrong, that’s a problem.
𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀: …..Read the rest of the signs on our latest blog post!
https://alinaslight.com/alinas-light-cares/
Lace-up! Our annual 5K Run and Walk for Love is our next community event.
The registrations will open April 20th!
We hope you plan ahead and going to be joining us in moving forward for a cause that touches hearts and changes lives. Your steps make a difference.
Stay tuned for details
🏃♀️💞 #RunWalkForLove #MoveForChange
Lace-up! Our annual 5K Run and Walk for Love is our next community event.
The registrations will open April 20th!
We hope you plan ahead and going to be joining us in moving forward for a cause that touches hearts and changes lives. Your steps make a difference.
Stay tuned for details
🏃♀️💞 #RunWalkForLove #MoveForChange
The pandemic has hit us hard in ways we’re still understanding. A study from the University of Michigan shows that stress from job loss and less social support has led to more intimate partner violence. Essential workers, those facing unemployment, many who unable to afford rent, and so many others have felt this pain.
Coming out of the height of the pandemic, we are worried that the situation still remains dire. More and more families are experiencing domestic violence and there is an increasing risk of fatal injuries to the victims. Domestic violence has gotten more violent! Sources say “It’s almost like the audacity of perpetrators has increased and they think they’re not going to get caught.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, we want you to remind them that they are not alone. We’re here to help in anyway we can. Reach out. Stay strong.
💜 #EndIPV #CommunitySupport
The pandemic has hit us hard in ways we’re still understanding. A study from the University of Michigan shows that stress from job loss and less social support has led to more intimate partner violence. Essential workers, those facing unemployment, many who unable to afford rent, and so many others have felt this pain.
Coming out of the height of the pandemic, we are worried that the situation still remains dire. More and more families are experiencing domestic violence and there is an increasing risk of fatal injuries to the victims. Domestic violence has gotten more violent! Sources say “It’s almost like the audacity of perpetrators has increased and they think they’re not going to get caught.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, we want you to remind them that they are not alone. We’re here to help in anyway we can. Reach out. Stay strong.
💜 #EndIPV #CommunitySupport
