Escape (Esc)
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
24-HOUR HOTLINE:
(815)729-1228
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
(866) 800-1409
SEXUAL ASSAULT
24-HOUR HOTLINE:
(815) 730-8984
Guardian Angel Community Services

Groundwork Domestic Violence Program

Where Victims Become Survivors

History

In 1983 Groundwork was established to serve domestic violence victims and their children. At that time the Illinois Coalition against Domestic Violence (ICADV) designated Will County as a priority area for the development of a domestic violence program. The Basic Human Needs Committee of the Will County Community Services Council confirmed this need through its own study. This need extended to Grundy County, where a satellite office opened early on, and in present day, the community may access services regardless of their County of residence.

About

Groundwork believes that the crime of domestic violence is a community problem and strives for coordinated efforts among professional services, as well, as broad-based support for its program. Groundwork assists victims of domestic violence, adults and children, to break the cycle of family abuse.  Through supportive and professional services, Groundwork provides:

  • 24-hour Confidential Hotline
  • Emergency Shelter
  • Crisis Intervention & Safety Planning
  • Individual Counseling
  • Group Counseling
  • Domestic Violence Education Program (for survivors referred from child welfare or legal system)
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Medical Advocacy
  • Prevention Education
  • Community Presentations

*All services are free and confidential. No income or insurance necessary. Services are available regardless of immigration status.

Eligibility for Service and Admission

Groundwork provides a comprehensive service program for domestic violence victims. Although law enforcement and other community agencies refer domestic violence victims to Groundwork, client status relies on self-referral. Participation is voluntary.

Eligibility shall be without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual preference, or physical or mental disability. There are no fees for Groundwork’s services.

Clients eligible for services are adults (over the age of eighteen) and their dependents that are, or have been victims of, or, threatened with domestic violence or abuse, either physical, sexual, or emotional violence as defined by the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986.

Children are eligible for services based on their parents’ or legal guardians’ eligibility and with their signed consent. The adult must be an active client.

Contact

If you are in immediate danger, please dial 9-1-1 .

For more information or to initiate services, please call the 24-hour hotline at 815-729-1228.

For services in Spanish, please call 815-729-0930 ext. 1439.

For general inquires please contact Melanie Skach, Program Manager at 815-729-0930 ext. 1436 or mskach@gacsprograms.org