Community Calls, Cynthia Answers
Insight From A Passionate Volunteer
On many mornings, Cynthia Veronda starts her day by the Kankakee River, walking, reading, and taking in the quiet. It’s a grounding ritual. A moment of calm before whatever the day may bring, including supporting survivors as a Clove Alliance volunteer. As someone who has always found fulfillment in being there for people as they face challenges, she says, “I know it’s part of my purpose.”
A Life Rooted in Community
Cynthia has spent her life showing up for others.
She worked for decades in the Kankakee school district as both a teacher and an administrator, guiding students and supporting fellow educators. She retired from her career four years ago, but she hasn’t stepped away from the role of encourager. She now works part-time with Olivet Nazarene University’s Continuing Education program and still mentors educators through teacher observations.
Her years in education and family history mean her connection to Kankakee runs deep. Her family has lived here for four generations, so she has built lots of local relationships that shape how she shows up for her community.
“I like being proactive and getting the word out about Clove Alliance whenever possible through outreach.” When representing Clove Alliance at events, people often recognize her. They stop to talk. They ask questions. They open up.
That trust has been built over her lifetime, and she’s grateful it brings people in.
A Promise to Give Back
Cynthia’s journey with Clove Alliance began long before she became a volunteer.
Decades ago, someone in her family experienced sexual abuse. Thankfully, Clove Alliance (then known as KC-CASA) was there. They provided advocacy and helped the family navigate the legal system. They also provided specialized counseling and support during an incredibly difficult time.
The impact stayed with her.
“I thought, if I ever get a chance to volunteer, I am going to give back…That’s going to be my cause.”
— Cynthia Veronda
“I thought, if I ever get a chance to volunteer, I am going to give back…That’s going to be my cause.” Cynthia shared. She is more than fulfilling her promise. Last year, she served the most hours of any volunteer by more than double!
“It’s important that an agency like this is here,” she said. “They hear you, guide you, and support you.”
Being There in the Hard Moments
Today, Cynthia volunteers in several ways. Each one is focused on showing up for survivors when it matters most and making sure they know they’re not alone.
Once a week, she takes a hotline shift. Sometimes it’s quiet. Other times, she’s talking with someone who needs support, reassurance, or guidance. And once in a while, she is going to the hospital emergency room when a survivor comes in for a medical exam or evidence collection in the aftermath of an assault.
Cynthia approaches each scenario with care. “For those moments, for those hours, I’m there to comfort a person,” she said.
She’s quick to point out that her role is just one part of a larger system of support—but it’s an important one.
“I am the person reaffirming the survivors and making sure they know Clove Alliance will be there every step of the way. And I say that with such conviction because it’s my truth. I know the difference they make for survivors.”
When Connection Comes Full Circle
One hospital visit stands out in Cynthia’s memory. When she arrived, she realized the survivor was an acquaintance from years ago. They had come to the emergency room with a friend, and when they both recognized Cynthia, she sensed their relief in seeing a familiar face in an otherwise overwhelming moment.
What followed were conversations rooted in understanding and trust. For Cynthia, it was a powerful reminder of how relationships can carry through time and how simply being there can mean so much.
More Purpose in Retirement
For Cynthia, retirement hasn’t meant slowing down. It’s meant leaning further into what matters most.
Through Clove Alliance’s crisis intervention training, she’s gained a deeper understanding of sexual violence and how to support survivors with compassion and empowerment. One message, in particular, has stayed with her: the importance of releasing self-blame.
“When you carry the weight of thinking the assault was your fault, the blame and shame remain,” she said.
She also holds onto a message of hope, and she shares it often. “There is always time to heal,” Cynthia declares. “Clove Alliance can still support your healing, no matter how much time has passed.”
She’s found a connection among fellow volunteers, too. They’re people who share her commitment to supporting survivors and strengthening the community. “You get to know people in a different way when you’re working for a cause together,” she said.
An Invitation to Others
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Cynthia doesn’t hesitate.
“Training isn’t a contract,” she insists. “Come learn more. Chances are you’ll want to be part of it.” At the very least, you’ll gain knowledge on a topic that impacts so many, see how to respond, and know the options for getting help.
She acknowledges that starting something new can feel intimidating, but emphasizes that volunteers get lots of backing. “Everyone is nervous in the beginning, but…Brittany Fry, the Director of Volunteer Services, is phenomenal!” she beams, adding, “[Brittany] listens to volunteers and supports us fully. I never hesitate to call her to talk things through or ask a question.” She adds that volunteering is flexible and it’s easy to weave into her schedule.
At its core, she suggests, the role is simple yet powerful: “To listen, believe, and provide guidance.”
A Small Part of Something Bigger
For Cynthia, volunteering with Clove Alliance is about being part of something larger than herself.
“It means I am a small part of a compassionate, necessary agency,” she said. It’s about showing up—for individuals, for families, and for the community as a whole.
“A community pulls together and supports each other as best they can,” she said. “I’m part of a community, so I plan to do just that as long as I can.”
We’re Here Because of People Like Cynthia
Volunteers like Cynthia make it possible for Clove Alliance to support survivors across Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford counties 24/7. If you’d like to join her in making a real difference, you can learn more about volunteer roles here.
All volunteers prepare to serve by completing a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Training, which is offered in the spring and fall each year. They also attend quarterly meetings that keep them connected and up to date.
Visit the volunteer page for info on training and to apply. If you have questions about volunteering or the training, contact volunteer@clovealliance.org or call 815.932.7273.
Together, we can continue showing up when it matters most.
If you share Cynthia’s passion for helping survivors, but can’t serve as a volunteer right now, please consider backing our mission with a donation today.
