Illinois Family Violence
Coordinating Councils
(FVCC) were established through an initiative of the Illinois Supreme Court and now include 28 local councils in 22 judicial circuits representing 102 counties. All councils are presided over by the Chief Judge of their respective circuit. Illinois is the only state in the country with a judicially led network of family violence coordinating councils.
The residents of McHenry County are served by the 22nd Judicial Circuit’s Family Violence Coordinating Council. The council is composed of persons representing various professions and agencies having an interest and stake in reducing domestic violence in our communities. Such professions include: judges, prosecuting attorneys, law enforcement, probation, victim services agencies, clergy, mental health workers, medical professionals, educators, and other social service providers. The council receives direction and guidance through a series of sub-committees representing various specialized concerns.
The goal of the council is to provide for a comprehensive, collaborative approach, in directing a countywide response to domestic violence.
In cooperation with the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office, have held trainings at many law enforcement agencies in the county on the investigation of domestic violence.
In cooperation with other county agencies, have sponsored the Candlelight Vigil on the Woodstock Square, an event which remembers victims of domestic violence in the county.
Developed and distributed a Key Indicators Sheet (Spanish), which outlines signs of abuse and provides a listing of county agencies providing assistance and support. This information is available in both English and Spanish.
Sponsored training for the clergy in the prevalence, recognition and response to domestic violence within their congregations.
Is cooperatively engaged with Elder Services providers to present training on Elder Abuse.
Streamlined procedures for obtaining protective orders for victims.
Continues to address issues surrounding domestic violence and firearms
Operations
The Circuit’s FVCC is guided in day-to-day operations by a coordinator whose position is funded partially by state allocations and enhanced though a partnership with McHenry County College. The Coordinator’s Office is located in McHenry County College’s Shah Center at 4100 W. Shamrock Ln., McHenry, IL
Committees
The FVCC is governed by a Steering Committee composed of representatives of all the sub-committees and disciplines. It is presided over by the Chief Judge of the 22nd Circuit. Standing sub-committees include:
Advancements
The 22nd Circuit’s FVCC has from the start been one of the most active and progressive councils in the state. It is committed to providing education and training to service providers, and developing programs and procedures which continue to address the issues of family violence, and enhance victim services. The FVCC continues to be a leading and dynamic voice of change.
In 2009 the FVCC organized training for service providers on Stalking Awareness, Investigation & Response. The instruction was provided by the Stalking Resource Center of Washington, DC, and represented the first and most comprehensive stalking training in the state since the legislature passed new laws adopting much needed changes to the stalking statute. The training was attended by more than 160 professionals from throughout northern Illinois and the Chicagoland area.
The FVCC, in cooperation with Centegra Health System, sponsored a five day national certification class for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE).