Connections for Abused Women and their Children

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Connections for Abused Women and their Children

Rebuilding Lives, Renewing Hope. We also created one of the first medically-based domestic violence programs in Chicago in 1992 at John H. Stroger Jr.
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Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC) is a 501(c)(3) organization providing emergency response and comprehensive domestic violence services, enabling survivors to access the tools they need to increase their safety and establish independence. Since its inception in 1977 with the establishment of the first domestic violence hotline , CAWC has continued to meet the needs of survivor

s by expanding programming throughout the community. The agency currently operates four programs at five different locations in the city of Chicago: Greenhouse Shelter, the Humboldt Park Outreach Program (HPOP), the Hospital Crisis Intervention Project (HCIP) and Domestic Violence Services at Haymarket Center. In 1977 CAWC established Chicago’s first domestic violence hot line and in 1979 opened the first domestic violence shelter in Chicago. CAWC fills a large gap in need on the West Side of Chicago, as we are the only organization in the community that is providing comprehensive domestic violence services for both adult survivors and their children, including walk-in and appointment-based outreach services, a safe and confidential shelter, and hospital-based services. Hospital of Cook County; because of the program’s tremendous impact, it became a national model for similar programs. In addition to our direct service provision to survivors of domestic violence, CAWC also provides hundreds of hours of public education, trainings, and workshops to healthcare providers, social service organizations, government agencies, and the public at large.

09/03/2024

We don't want you to miss out on your domestic violence certification! Time is running out to register for CAWC's Fall 40-hour Domestic Violence Training Session. Hosted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, you can learn the history and effects of domestic violence and how to provide essential resources to survivors. To get involved, fill out the interest form below or email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Interest form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Iaq1BlFckUmaGOZeDkqgQCwnysuhjjNDl2l5KZAkUStUME43WkgzWEwyU1gyMFVEQ0lNWklWOUlYTC4u

08/28/2024

CAWC finds ourselves continuously heartbroken with news story after news story of fatal domestic violence-related shootings. In Illinois and across the United States, we see countless vulnerable lives taken by abusers with guns. In late May, Amy, a mother of three, was shot and killed by her ex-husband in Bloomington-Normal. Just this past Monday, Andrea, a junior at Rice University, lost her life to a romantic partner. Both women passed away in apparent murder-suicides, leaving Amy's three children orphaned and Andrea's family mourning her shortened life.

Please, join us in remembering past and recent victims of domestic violence-related shootings and advocating for the passing of Karina's Bill in their honor. Our chance to actualize this bill is coming up in November, so your immediate action is crucial. Say their names, tell their stories, and advocate for a safer state. We need your help to be heard. To learn more about these tragic stories and advocate for Karina's Bill, visit https://linktr.ee/cawc_chicago.

08/27/2024

For the second year, GTCR is committing to supporting the lives of domestic violence survivors as a Transformational Sponsor for CAWC's Sounds of Silence gala! As a longtime supporter and friend of CAWC, GTCR invests in the power of our services as we assist the adults and families who need us and, ultimately, transform their lives. Thank you, GTCR, for making a difference with CAWC. Cheers to another year of partnership!

08/26/2024

To truly achieve equality for women and the many other groups facing exorbitant discrimination, we must lift each other up and create space for each other to succeed. We need a strong, invested community to make valuable change in our systems and cultures. Join us - the fight has only just begun!

08/22/2024

The Crime Victims Fund allocates substantial funding to agencies nationwide providing urgent support services to victims of sexual violence, domestic abuse, stalking, and more. However, this fund depends on the collected deposits from federal criminal fines, bonds, penalties, and fees which fluctuate each year. Victims and survivors deserve consistency and assurances, and they cannot depend on the fluctuations of VOCA funding. But with the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act, we will be one step closer to ensuring victims and survivors nationwide have access to the support that they need, when they need it. Visit the link in our bio to claim your support and join us in our mission!

08/20/2024

CAWC's 2024 Fall Session of Domestic Violence Training starts soon! Do you need your certificate? Join CAWC's Training and Education Coordinator, Megan Rosado, to fulfill your domestic violence education requirements. $250 registration fee and space is limited, so register now! Visit https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Iaq1BlFckUmaGOZeDkqgQCwnysuhjjNDl2l5KZAkUStUME43WkgzWEwyU1gyMFVEQ0lNWklWOUlYTC4u to submit your interest or email [email protected] for more information.

08/19/2024

The intersection of domestic violence and substance use disorders is an elaborate, interconnected web. Both issues can have a negative impact on health, affect entire families, isolate someone from their support networks, result in the development of elaborate denial systems, and cause a victim to lose a sense of control.

CAWC is one of the few domestic violence agencies in Chicago with a program specially designed to support victims of abuse who are concurrently addressing their substance addiction. If you or someone you know is in need of these dual services, please call our Haymarket Program Coordinator, Chelsea Cooper at (312)226-7984 ext. 307.

08/15/2024

Our greatest supporters are our greatest advocates! Thank you to Equity Residential for their generous, continued support of CAWC's Sounds of Silence Gala as a Transformational Sponsor. To create a long-lasting impact is an admirable feat, and Equity Residential is making that possible at CAWC. Cheers to continued partnerships!

CAWC supports survivors of domestic violence through mental and physical health challenges, housing insecurity, legal cases, and more. If you or your company is interested in making a difference in these ways, connect with us to discover the many opportunities that come with our partnership. Call (773)489-9081 or email [email protected].

08/13/2024

Children impacted by domestic violence are already at an increased risk for mental and physical health conditions, and school can be a compounding factor for many of these challenges. As we enroll clients' children in school, we are acutely aware of how important our children's services are to ensure they leave class every day feeling enriched. Your donation today will directly support CAWC's efforts in helping kids thrive now and well into their adulthood - your donation today is an investment in a kid's future. To make your gift, visit www.cawc.org/inspire-children.

08/12/2024

When the summer is bustling with activities, fairs, and music festivals, there are adults and children hiding inside as they struggle through heightened rates of abuse. But why does abuse spike in the summer months? There are many factors linking factors, and we are here to tell you. Visit CAWC's blog at www.cawc.org/in-the-news to discover how rising heat levels, increased alcohol consumption, school breaks, and more can contribute to surges in domestic violence during the summer.

08/09/2024

Intimidation, threats, controlling behaviors... you don't have to deal with that! Don't wait for it to get worse, the red flags are waving for a reason. CAWC is here to ensure you can leave an abusive relationship safely. We will help you learn the signs so you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the cycle of abuse. Follow us to learn more about domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and everything connected to it.

08/07/2024

CAWC and our Board of Directors are pleased to announce and welcome Arshele Stevens as our new Executive Director! After a nationwide search, we are excited to introduce you to the strong, tireless spirit that characterizes Stevens’ commitment to serving vulnerable populations and making grand moves in institutional development.

As a seasoned executive, Stevens will lead CAWC into the future of work in disrupting domestic violence through institutional advancement, program development, operational efficiency and advocacy. Stevens built her expertise through positions at institutions such as President of Kennedy-King College, Founding Chief Executive Officer of Girls, Inc. Of Chicago, and Senior Vice President of Children, Youth, and Families at Catholic Charities of Chicago where she developed programs to assist domestic violence and other issues that align with CAWC’s work. Help us give Arshele a warm welcome!

To read the full press release, visit www.cawc.org/news/executive-director-announcement

08/05/2024

Thank you to the generous Wildman BT for being our Venue Sponsor for Sounds of Silence 2024 - we are so excited to host everyone in this beautiful venue! Revitalized from its historic roots and located in the heart of our home, Wildman Boiler & Tank is a warm, modern space perfect for gathering our community. We can't wait for you all to see it! Check out our venue and make sure to buy your tickets at https://sos2024.givesmart.com.

07/31/2024

With school just around the corner, many kids are bursting with excitement for the day to come... but for children experiencing domestic violence, they might be hiding behind feelings of dread. School can be an environment that compounds children's stress and anxiety, manifesting in feelings of boredom, skipping school, or declining grades. Checking in with your child before school starts and keeping consistent communication can help support any child as they return to school.

CAWC helps children experiencing domestic violence work through their complicated feelings heading into school so they can feel confident and ready to learn. Through behavioral therapy and empowering exercises, we provide the tools to help children succeed. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please connect with CAWC so we can support them through their journey. Call (773)278-4566 for more information.

07/29/2024

Don't get down on yourself for the things that go wrong. Parenting is full of challenges and mistakes, and that doesn't make you any less capable or strong! In our work, we see the resilience of parents every day. We see the sacrifices and hardships first-hand and are continually inspired by the strength of our clients. Keep doing your best, that's all you can do!

07/25/2024

to last year's Sounds of Silence! Are you excited for another thrilling night with CAWC?! Last year we celebrated many success stories and danced all night... but this year we can't wait to release even more exciting news to blow 2023 away! Tickets will be released soon... stay tuned so you don't miss out!

07/24/2024

Deaths are spiking, but we can establish better protections for victims and survivors of domestic violence. A gun was involved in almost 70% of the 120 domestic violence-related deaths, but with Karina's Bill, law enforcement would be required to retrieve fi****ms from abusers while serving orders of protection. After the Supreme Court upheld that abusers do not have constitutional rights to possess guns, we are closer than ever to passing this bill. Keep advocating and contacting your representatives ahead of the fall veto session! We must be loud! To read the full Chicago Sun-Times article, visit https://ow.ly/tVmP50SJlNr

07/23/2024

Don't worry, CAWC is equipped to ensure our services are available for you and anyone in need! When a survivor of domestic violence who doesn't speak English or Spanish comes to CAWC for support, we navigate this challenge by calling on trusty translators to help us tackle language barriers and begin learning more about their unique experiences. Especially when language barriers are often used as a tool for abusers to exercise power and control over their intimate partners, we know how important it is for us to welcome survivors with quality service and open arms. To learn more about CAWC's domestic violence services, visit www.cawc.org.

07/22/2024

Domestic violence itself can bring along different mental health challenges, but victims and survivors within marginalized communities may experience these challenges being exacerbated by various systemic factors. Racial minorities and members of the LGBTQ+ community are already at high risk, and it is up to us to make sure that we provide accessible, informed care that targets these disparities and brings wraparound support. CAWC is dedicated to ensuring our services meet the individual needs of our clients. To learn more about how domestic violence can affect marginalized communities' mental health, visit CAWC's blog at https://www.cawc.org/news/domestic-violence-and-mental-health-in-marginalized-communities/.

07/18/2024

There are many necessities we rely on for our survival and independence that survivors of domestic violence live without. Abusive relationships are poison, infiltrating the victim’s beliefs, support systems, and resources until the only place for them to turn is back to their abuser. No one should live in this state of hopelessness.

CAWC is a lifeline for victims and survivors of domestic violence to reclaim their lives and reestablish their independence… We make the hardships easier so our clients can focus on enjoying the little things that make life beautiful. Help us make a meaningful difference in our clients’ quality of life by donating today at www.cawc.org/supporting-independence. We need your help to make big moments possible!

07/16/2024

Isolation is a very dangerous tactic of abuse. There are many ways that an abuser can influence isolation over their victim, but they are all equally concerning. Whether they discredit their victim's close relationships, withhold translating resources, limit their victim's online access, and more, the abuser instills power and control over their victim. Without a support network or accessible connections, an isolated victim of domestic abuse will often feel helpless in their relationship. They won't know where to turn. If this sounds familiar to you or a loved one's experiences, resources like CAWC are available. Contact CAWC's 24/7 hotline at (773)278-4566 to discover your options and learn more information.

07/15/2024

CAWC's Humboldt Park Outreach Program (HPOP) is one of CAWC's largest programs, providing bilingual and bicultural (Spanish and English) domestic violence services on a walk-in or appointment basis. Many adults and families come to our HPOP Team seeking resources for escaping abuse or looking for support during their transition to safety. To support our clients, we have personalized services and group therapies for both adults and children, focusing on instilling confidence and independence as they work to escape abuse and rebuild their lives.

To learn more about CAWC's programs and our efforts to ending domestic violence, visit cawc.org.

07/12/2024

Domestic violence disproportionally affects racial minorities, especially the Black community. While Black women and men statistically experience much higher rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) than their White counterparts, Black victims are also significantly more likely to have their life threatened by their abusers. No intimate relationship should be deadly. To make a significant difference in our mission to end domestic violence, we must model our platform around the distinct experiences and struggles racial minorities face. CAWC listens to our clients and models our counseling services based on individual needs, ensuring we can support and protect anyone experiencing domestic violence or IPV.

CAWC is here for you and everyone experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence. If you or someone you know needs support, please call our 24-hour hotline at (773)278-4566. Before it is too late.

07/10/2024

CAWC is happy to announce Seyfarth Shaw LLP as a Dessert Sponsor for Sounds of Silence 2024! Seyfarth has been a dedicated partner of CAWC and our annual gala. We are so thankful to them for their continued advocacy and generosity.

CAWC is introducing special sponsorship opportunities for this year's gala! You or your business could claim our limited opportunities to be a Floral Sponsor or Reception Sponsor in addition to custom sponsorship levels. For more information about benefits and pricing, please call us at (773)489-9081 or email [email protected]. We would love for you to join us!

07/08/2024

According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, DV programs across the US could not meet 13,335 service requests within a 24-hour period in 2023 due to exhausted resources. Now is not a time to decrease funding, now is a time to meet the need and establish more equipped programming to provide safe, accessible domestic violence services to families across the country. Agencies need you - please join CAWC and our community in advocating for an increase in VOCA funding. Visit the links in our bio to learn more and connect with your representatives now.

07/04/2024

As you celebrate Independence Day, remember that we have a long way to go to achieve and protect the independence and freedom for the citizens in our country. For victims and survivors of domestic violence, independence often feels intangible. For them, independence means many things, such as owning their own bank account, housing, accessible transportation, buying groceries, and much, much more.

CAWC does everything we can to make all of these milestones possible for our clients and families working to rid their lives of abuse. Through counseling, life skills classes, in-kind donations, and more, we are an essential support system to help adults and families rebuild their lives. To learn more about CAWC and what we do, visit www.cawc.org.

07/03/2024

Did you know that a significant percentage of CAWC clientele live below the federal poverty level? Every day we see victims of domestic violence struggle to find stable employment due to the abuse that they experience. Sometimes, we even see them sacrificing their opportunities for safety to collect a paycheck that funds their abuser. Survivors perpetually feel the weight of the abuse that they experience, and in effect, their colleagues and employers see decreases in productivity and company performance.

Learn more about the ways domestic violence is a challenge for job security and employer performance by reading our recent blog post at cawc.org/in-the-news.

07/01/2024

Do you need new kitchenware or appliances? Then this is your lucky day - CAWC is participating in a Pampered Chef fundraiser organized by Cindy Doll! Your purchases through the fundraiser page will donate 15% back to CAWC.

Even if you don't need kitchen supplies, you can donate your order back to CAWC and support survivors transitioning to independent housing! Items like pots and pans sets, tupperware, knife sets, and more will help a family have the essentials they need. Visit the fundraiser page at https://www.pamperedchef.com/party/fundraiserforcawc and join the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/797983855769931 to hear all Cindy's exclusive offers!

06/30/2024

Life is about living! Let the words of Melissa Etheridge inspire living in power, pride, and confidence. You are more than your fear!

06/28/2024

CAWC is confounded with bittersweet feelings in announcing the retirement of Shelter Director, Beatris (Bea) Burgos. As a significant stakeholder in CAWC’s history and legacy, Bea quickly became a part of our agency’s heart and soul. It is saddening to say goodbye to the incredible leader that Bea became during her 37 years at CAWC, but we are overwhelmed with joy and celebration as we wish her a peaceful retirement filled with family, love, and laughter. In her honor, we hosted a retirement part at Wildman BT, the location for our Sounds of Silence gala in November, by inviting all the people who worked alongside her throughout the years.

We hope you join us in congratulating Bea and remembering all the amazing feats she has accomplished for our organization and its mission to end domestic violence. You can donate in honor of Bea and to help us continue walking in the shoes she has left us to fill at www.cawc.org/honoring-bea.

Address

1116 N Kedzie Avenue
Chicago, IL
60651

Telephone

+17734899081

Website

http://cawc.org/

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Happy birthday, Aly!! Thank you for celebrating with CAWC by giving back. Your incredible gift will make a big difference for many of our clients. We are so happy to be a part of your birthday, and hope you have a special weekend! #HappyBirthday #ThankYou #Honorarium @alymiller24 @askjimmiller

Women's History Month is a time to celebrate the inspiring women who have changed our world for the better. To honor this celebration, we asked our amazing staff to share a story about an inspiring woman in their lives. CAWC Legal Advocate Caroline Werner describes the impact that her family friend, Gail, had on her life, her passion, and advocacy! #WomensHistoryMonth #StaffInspiration #StrongWomen

CAWC 2021 Virtual Gala: Sounds of Silence

Sounds of Silence is just two days away! Join CAWC from the comfort of your own home to learn about Chicago’s oldest domestic violence agency and support survivors as they rebuild their lives and regain hope. Thank you to CAWC Board Vice President Sarah Krauszer for helping us raise awareness! Register now at https://www.cawc.org/sos/

Spend your Friday night making a change in your community! Join CAWC this Friday, August 13th, for Sounds of Silence. Thank you to CAWC Board Member Tina Holloway for helping us get the message out! Register now at https://www.cawc.org/sos/!

Join CAWC on August 13 for our virtual Sounds of Silence gala. Hear from leaders in the field of domestic violence and learn how Greenhouse Shelter made it through the pandemic without a single case of COVID-19. Register today at cawc.org/sos.