Our beginnings

In November 1995, the judiciary of the Thirteenth Judical Circuit sponsored two one-day symposia on family violence. Approximately 500 concerned citizens attended, including attorneys, court personnel, educators, faith leaders, health care professionals, law enforcement personnel, and social service professionals.

The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Family Violence Prevention Council was convened in March, 1996, and is now made up of many of those persons who attended the symposia, along with many others who expressed an interest in developing a coordinated response to interpersonal violence.

Council Chair and Co-Chairs

The Council is chaired by Thirteenth Judical Circuit Chief Judge James A. Lanuti and co-chaired by Circuit Judge Cynthia Raccuglia and Associate Judge James Brusatte.

Council Staff

Nancy Churchill is Council Coordinator, funded by the Illinois Family VIolence Coordinating Council. Contact Nancy at the office by phone at 815.431.0630, by fax, 815.431.0637, or by email (13fvpc@mchsi.com).

Structure

The Council is made up of more about 500 community members and professionals from the judiciary, law enforcement, education, social service agencies, health care, and the faith community, all dedicated to ending interpersonal violence. This work is accomplished through committees whose activities are overseen by the Executive Committee. These are: Safe Havens, Elder Abuse Training, Bureau County, Grundy County, and LaSalle County, and their subcommittees focusing on specific topics. Visit our Committee page for more information.

Speakers Bureau

Since 1996, members of the Council have developed presentations, trainings, and model protocols (written policies) on such topics as child abuse, youth dating violence, partner abuse, elder abuse, bullying and suicide. Our Speakers Bureau, made up of experts in these areas, is a valuable resource for local groups and media outlets. To learn more, visit our Speaker's Bureau page.