Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2025
Opening the Doors to Inclusivity: FIRST Collaboration Event Focuses on Support and
Collaboration for Survivors with Disabilities
Kankakee, IL, May 6, 2025 – Clove Alliance, which supports survivors of sexual violence, and The FIRST Collaboration, an initiative to improve services and responses for survivors with disabilities, invite the community to “Opening the Doors to Inclusivity,” an open house event. The evening will focus on fostering inclusivity, sharing information about local services, and cultivating collaboration. The event will take place on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 1440 W. Court Street, Kankakee, IL 60901, Clove Alliance’s main office. People with disabilities, their families and supporters, and disability service providers are all encouraged to join.
Guests will enjoy tours of Clove Alliance’s main office, connect with local service providers, and learn more about The FIRST Collaboration and how they can help encourage inclusivity. Light refreshments will be provided.
“The FIRST Collaboration aims to create a victim-centered response to harm that ensures everyone, regardless of ability,
feels safe and supported,” says Kerrie Blanton, Trauma Counselor at Clove Alliance and facilitator of the group. “This open house is a chance to build connections in our community and strengthen our efforts to support survivors with disabilities.”
Founded in 2023 by Clove Alliance, The FIRST Collaboration unites service providers across Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford
counties to address the unique challenges faced by survivors of sexual violence with disabilities. The group provides resources, training, and guidance to empower individuals with disabilities to speak and act for themselves while improving accessibility and responses within the community.
Statistics show that individuals with disabilities are three times more likely to experience sexual violence compared to those without disabilities. Despite this heightened risk, many face barriers to reporting abuse and accessing support
services. Through initiatives like The FIRST Collaboration, Clove Alliance is committed to reducing these disparities and ensuring survivors with disabilities are believed and treated with dignity.
Join us at “Opening the Doors to Inclusivity” to learn how we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for
everyone in our community.
For more information about The FIRST Collaboration or to inquire about joining, please contact Kerrie Blanton at kerrie@clovealliance.org or 815-932-7273.
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Media Inquiries
Please contact:
Kerrie Blanton
Trauma Counselor at Clove Alliance and FIRST Collaboration Facilitator
Clove Alliance
815-932-7273 (EXT: 216)
kerrie@clovealliance.org
About Clove Alliance
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.