Emergency Shelter

Mutual Ground (MGI) operates a shelter for women and their minor children who are victims of domestic violence. Here victims are provided safety, shelter and support services while they learn they have the power to change their lives.

• professional staff available 24 hours a day

• specialized support services

• thirty-two bed capacity

• serving southern Kane and Kendall counties

Domestic Violence Counseling For Women

Domestic violence is the physical abuse, threat of physical abuse, or the emotional abuse by a relative or person with whom the victim resides.

 Not all domestic violence victims need shelter. Some need to assess and explore their options before making a decision. Some need continuing support regarding their decision. Some need group interaction to break down feelings of isolation, and promote healing.

• individual counseling available by appointment

• weekly support groups

• parenting group to encourage non-violent behavior

• referrals and advocacy with local social service agencies

For Children

Children are victims too, directly or indirectly. Understanding the violence is necessary to break this cycle of abuse.

• individual counseling

• support groups

• education about cooperative, non-violent problem solving

• activity and play groups

Sexual Assault Counseling

Sexual assault refers to all types of sexual violence with or without a weapon: rape, incest, molestation, child sexual assault/abuse and sexual harassment. Services are provided to all victims regardless of age or gender.

• 24 hour crisis intervention at hospitals and police stations

• individual counseling by professional staff

• support groups for rape, incest, children, adolescents, non-offending parents, and significant others

• specialized services for teens

• specialized services for children

• play and art therapy

Victim Advocacy

Mutual Ground provides critical advocacy services for both domestic violence and sexual assault victims. MGI supplies information, emotional support, and sound technical understanding of the legal and social systems involved. These systems can be frightening and frustrating to both adults and children who must then deal with numerous institutions during their crisis.

Domestic Violence Victims

• 24 hour availability for advocacy at hospital emergency rooms

• information on protection available through the Illinois Domestic Violence Act

• Advocacy with social service agencies and the criminal justice system

• support in criminal and civil court proceedings

• advocacy with obtaining Orders of Protection

• transportation to court

Sexual Assault Victims

• 24 hour availability for intervention at hospitals and police stations

• information about medical exams and evidence collection

• court preparation for adult or child victims

• information about legal procedures

• transportation to court

24-Hour Crisis Lines

It takes courage for those devastated by domestic violence or sexual assault to reach out for help. Their first contact can be crucial. MGI operates a 24-hour hot line for domestic violence and sexual assault victims.

• NO LINES HAVE CALLER ID

• All calls confidential

• Calls taken by professional staff

• Crisis intervention counseling

• Support for families and friends of victims

• Informed, non-judgmental support

• Sensitive, accurate information

Community Education

Mutual Ground believes education is the key in prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault. MGI has several pro-active programs that are tailored to fit our philosophy that social change is necessary to prevent these crimes. Please click on the Comunity Education link for more information.