Help Barry and Tracey Get Justice!

Hi friends,

We’re reaching out to ask for your support in helping two incredible people, Barry Maketansky and Tracey McConnell, who are fighting back against an unjust situation.

Barry and Tracey have both been dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence through their work at Verde Valley Sanctuary (VVS) in Cottonwood, Arizona. They were terminated in June 2024 under what we believe are completely unfair circumstances, and they’re now facing a legal battle to stand up for their rights.

Barry has been a part of the VVS community for over 20 years—as a volunteer, a board member, and most recently, as Community Enterprise Director. He’s been a leading voice for survivors in our area, and his efforts have been recognized by organizations like the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence. Tracey, who worked as a consultant and employee for VVS, has been a huge part of fundraising and communications efforts in our region. Her work was recently honored by the Sisterhood Connection Foundation.

Both Tracey and Barry were alarmed and deeply concerned for the clients of the Verde Valley Sanctuary when they learned that the VVS Board made a sudden and inexplicable decision to close the thrift store in Cottonwood. When they respectfully questioned the decision, they were accused of “insubordination” and fired.

Now, because of the legal threats against Tracey and Barry, their legal fees have exceeded $25,000 and continue to stack up. We’re hoping to quickly raise funds to help offset these expenses.

Any amount you can give will go directly toward their legal fees and related expenses. And if there are any leftover funds, Barry and Tracey will donate them to domestic violence shelters in Yavapai County—because they’re still dedicated to helping others, even in the middle of their own struggle.

If you want to know more about what’s been going on, the Sedona Red Rock News has covered this shocking story here:

https://www.redrocknews.com/2024/07/18/vvs-to-close-one-thrift-store-fires-maketansky-mcconnell/

https://www.redrocknews.com/2024/07/18/verde-valley-sanctuary-clients-report-abuse-at-shelter/

Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and generosity! We’re incredibly grateful for anything you can contribute to help Barry and Tracey get through this.

Warmly,

Friends of Barry and Tracey