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Jennifer Hernandez

Front row, from left, ECLI Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo; ECLI Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez (with scissors); Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr; and Legislator Rebecca Sanin. Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES

By Julianne Mosher

There is hope for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence thanks to the founders of Islandia-based nonprofit ECLI-VIBES.

Co-founded by Feride Castillo and Jennifer Hernandez, ECLI-VIBES is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive community for individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and abuse. Through their trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach, they work to break the cycle of violence, one life at a time, by empowering individuals to achieve safety, independence and healing through their services.

ECLI-VIBES not only serves survivors but also helps their families by providing essential resources and support to help them rebuild their lives. On average, they serve more than 2,500 people every month.

“ECLI-VIBES began with a small spark nearly 10 years ago,” Hernandez said. “We founded ECLI with the idea that we create something extraordinary when we pour love and care into others.”

According to their website, a major cornerstone of the group’s mission is to foster a warm, welcoming and supportive environment where individuals facing trauma feel safe, respected and understood. At ECLI-VIBES, they believe that trauma is the catalyst for complex issues rooted in violence and abuse. They aim to uncover and address the underlying causes of trauma, enabling genuine healing and lasting transformation.

“That tiny spark has grown into a flame, one that burns brighter than ever as we work tirelessly to empower survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking and abuse,” Hernandez added.

Castillo said that the duo wanted to build a space that supports individuals, heals generations and breaks cycles.

“True transformation happens in spaces where people feel connected, loved, validated and seen,” she said. “My goal is for everyone to know what it’s like not to feel alone and empowered by the support of a team that believes in them every day.”

Some services that ECLI-VIBES boasts is a 24-hour “hopeline” that is available to all members of the community who are seeking crisis intervention, emotional support, information on victim rights and other resources.

They also host a youth program that provides support and mentorship to children and teens, a community food pantry, counseling, an advocacy program, housing program and legal programs, among others.

“This work is not just about providing services — it’s about creating a community where love and resilience lead the way,” said Hernandez. “People are inherently resilient, and love is what brings that strength to the surface. My passion comes from knowing that we all rise when we share our light with others. My job is to keep my cup overflowing so I can pour into my team and help them pour into our community. Together, we create the kind of impact that changes lives and builds brighter futures.”

“At its core, ECLI-VIBES was designed to put the ‘human’ back into human services — to be a place where people can rediscover hope, tap into their inner strength and heal,” Castillo added. “Every day, I am inspired by the power of human resilience as individuals take the courageous step to reach out, no matter how impossible their circumstances may seem.”

ECLI-VIBES also has created an Anti-Human Trafficking Program that supports individuals who have experienced human trafficking, helping them through complex issues they might have faced by utilizing a holistic approach with cost-free services.

“Human trafficking has been an ongoing issue in our county, and I am proud to work with ECLI-VIBES to support the victims and combat the traffickers,” said Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon [R-Rocky Point].“ In addition, ECLI-VIBES has been providing help to so many other people throughout our county.”

Hernandez said that ECLI-VIBES’ mission is to ensure that survivors have access to everything they need to “survive and thrive.”

“We have the privilege to stand in solidarity with them, offering not just services but an open heart, a shoulder to cry on and someone who listens to guide them toward long-term healing,” she said. “We are dedicated to supporting the mindset that empowers individuals to reclaim their power and self-sufficiency.”

For their passionate education and advocacy, TBR News Media is pleased to name Feride Castillo and Jennifer Hernandez 2024 Persons of the Year.

“As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded of the incredible power of community and the importance of leading with love. ECLI-VIBES was built on this foundation, and it’s what continues to guide us as we create lasting change for the individuals and families we serve,” Hernandez said. “This honor is not mine alone — it belongs to every survivor who’s trusted us, every team member who’s shown up, and every person who’s believed in our mission. Love is what our community needs and will always lead us forward.”

Castillo said that the co-founders have always believed they are “the extended family member, cousin or friend who will pick up your call when you’re in need and figure out a way to help you.”

“No one should have to face the hardest moments of their life alone,” she added. “That’s why we’re committed to breaking down barriers and removing gatekeeping to provide tangible, life-saving information and resources. It’s about creating spaces where people feel supported, validated and empowered to reclaim their power and take back their lives.”

If you need help or know someone who does, visit www.eclivibes.org or call 631-360-3606.

Front row, from left, ECLI Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo; ECLI Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez (with scissors); Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr; and Legislator Rebecca Sanin. Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES

Empowerment Collaborative of Long Island and Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk (ECLI-VIBES), a Long Island nonprofit organization that helps survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, has taken over the building that once belonged to Flushing Bank at 1707 Veterans Memorial Highway in Islandia. 

This marks a significant milestone in expanding their impact and support of victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The momentous occasion was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the new facilities and light bites on Oct. 24.

“We are in a bigger space now, and it feels unreal how far we have come in the physical and organizational growth ,” said Co-Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Hernandez, “My co-founders and I, who built this organization from the ground up, never could have imagined how big it would become and the impact it would have on Suffolk County and beyond.”

The evening’s guests were able to learn more about the services ECLI VIBES provides, such as its fully stocked food and essentials pantry and counseling services. The move to the new facility left no need unmet, providing dedicated spaces for everything from client services to a centrally located water feature where staff can find reprieve from the heaviness of the work. Flushing Bank sold the property with all of the furnishings, allowing ECLI VIBES to be up and running in the new space quickly with minimal construction and labor.

“We know the challenges our community is facing and are showing individuals who can help us with our cause what we are doing to not only help our survivors but how we can stop domestic violence in our community,” said Co-Founder and Program Development & Education Director Feride Castillo. “We believe that with the continued support and involvement of our community, we can make a significant impact.”

Many Suffolk County community leaders and legislators were in attendance, including Legislator Chad Lennon and Legislator Rebecca Sanin, Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. and Detective Sergeant James Murphy and his team from the Suffolk County Police Department’s Anti Trafficking Unit. Organizations that were represented include Long Island Cares and Long Island Harvest.

To learn more about ECLI VIBES and how you can get involved, please visit www.eclivibes.org.