Press Release
For Immediate Release
March 24, 2025
For more information, contact:
Tracey Noe Slach, Clove Alliance CEO
(815) 932-7273, ext: 211
tracey@clovealliance.org
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Clove Alliance Calls on the Community to Support Survivors and Take Action
KANKAKEE, IL – Every April, communities across the nation recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to honor survivors, raise awareness, and promote prevention efforts to end sexual violence. Clove Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors in Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford Counties, is leading the charge locally by organizing a variety of events to educate the public
and foster allyship.
“Sexual violence is a pervasive issue that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds,” said Tracey Noe Slach, CEO of Clove Alliance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three women and one in six men experience sexual violence in their lifetime. Yet, many cases go unreported. “SAAM is an opportunity to listen to survivors, amplify their voices, and take meaningful steps to make your community safer for everyone.”
Clove Alliance invites community members to participate in events throughout April, including:
● Business After Hours (April 2): This casual networking event at Clove Alliance’s Watseka office welcomes you to see firsthand where hope and healing happen.
● Body Safety Programs with Max and Molly (April 7 & April 9): This engaging program, featuring two teddy bears with an important message, will teach children about body safety and trustworthy adults. It is ideal for pre-k to second-grade children and will be held at the Bourbonnais and Kankakee libraries.
● Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser (April 9-13): Order delicious gourmet popcorn and support Clove Alliance. A portion of every sale goes directly to their mission of helping survivors and preventing sexual violence.
● Brave, Bold, and Believed Art Show (April 10 - May 10): Located at the Kankakee County Museum, this exhibition features inspiring pieces by local artists that highlight survivors’ resilience and hope. Opening night will be especially impactful.
● Culver’s Fundraiser (April 22): Enjoy a meal at Culver’s in Bourbonnais, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Clove Alliance. Show your support by dining in, carrying out, or driving-thru from 5-8 PM.
● Mental Health Round Table (April 25): A discussion on the intersection of trauma, healing, and
mental health support for survivors and their loved ones.
● Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention Training Begins (April 28): A comprehensive 40-hour
training that benefits anyone who wants to better understand sexual violence and how to support survivors. It is a requirement for Clove Alliance volunteers.
● Resilience Screening (April 30): Take in a screening of Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope. This 1-hour documentary covers groundbreaking research on how trauma in childhood can affect lifelong health.
Community members are encouraged to visit www.clovealliance.org to get all the details about these SAAM events and ways to support Clove Alliance’s mission. Donating, volunteering, and learning
more about ending sexual harm all make a lasting impact beyond April.
“Sexual violence is preventable, and we all have a role to play,” said Noe Slach. “By showing up, educating yourself, and supporting survivors, you can help create a future free from sexual harm.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
Tracey Noe Slach, CEO
Clove Alliance
(815) 932-7273, ext: 211
tracey@clovealliance.org
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Clove Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hope and healing to survivors of sexual violence.
Through comprehensive services, community engagement, and advocacy, Clove Alliance is committed to fostering a
world free from sexual violence. Learn more at clovealliance.org.
