| |
The mission of the Illinois Valley
Safe House Alliance is to serve survivors of domestic violence
and sexual assault while they meet their immediate and long-term
goals of safety and self-sufficiency. In order to achieve
this mission, we have designed programs that address the
immediate crisis needs of survivors and long-term support while
they rebuild their lives. As a result, many survivors
continue to work with our advocates beyond the initial help with
crisis counseling, court accompaniment, safety planning,
obtaining protective orders, and applying for TADVS, Crime
Victim Compensation, and other benefits. We provide
support groups, education groups for adults and children,
assistance in returning to school and/or finding living wage
jobs, and support (emotionally and fiscally) with finding
adequate and affordable housing. Support groups are
available for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault
and for survivors who are in recovery.
Our philosophy is founded on the
knowledge that women can rebuild lives that keep themselves and
their children safe if they are given the support and resources
they need, for the length of time they need them.
Additionally, based on the Governor's Council on Domestic
Violence's finding that 80% of survivors will turn to family,
friends and co-workers before they consider the services of
organizations like ours, we seek ways to engage more women
without their having to identify as a victim/survivor.
This approach proves itself time and again -- as
victims/survivors grow more comfortable they eventually disclose
that they are or have been victims of domestic violence and/or
sexual assault. |
|
