Compassionate support can make a big difference in the aftermath of sexual harm. Thankfully, it is always available through Clove Alliance’s 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 815.932.3322. Specially trained staff and volunteer advocates are always ready to provide support, information, referrals, and empathy. Anyone can call for any reason. From a question to a crisis, all are welcome.

Often, survivors reach out after being assaulted, unsure of what steps to take or what help is available. Sometimes, they call years later due to flashbacks or panic attacks and need someone to talk to. Loved ones of survivors also call to get ideas on how they can offer support, and friends contact us to get information they can pass on about services like counseling. No matter the reason, Hotline Advocates are standing by to help!  

But what exactly happens when you call 815.932.3322? Let’s explore the steps so you know what to expect if you ever need to call. 

Steps In Calling Clove Alliance’s 24-Hour Crisis Hotline 

Dial

Take the first step by dialing 815.932.3322. You can call the hotline at any time! It is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The call is completely free and confidential.

If you wish to reach our main office during business hours, call 815.932.7273. View all our contact details here.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911.

Connect

Someone will always pick up; who answers will depend on the day and time. During office hours, a member of Clove Alliance’s staff will pick up your call. Outside office hours or during a holiday, a call center professional will answer your call and ask your name and reason for calling. You’ll be placed on hold while they contact a Clove Alliance Hotline Advocate. The call center will then connect you and leave the call, so it is just you and the Hotline Advocate on the line.

Talk To a Trained Hotline Advocate 

The person you talk with on the hotline will be a highly trained Clove Alliance staff member or a volunteer known as a Hotline Advocate. They are always ready to help! You can say as little or as much as you want to about why you are calling, and your conversation is strictly confidential. The Advocate will offer you compassionate support, options, and resources. Everyone’s situation and needs are different, so the information they give you will be tailored to what you share. 

If the Assault Was Recent

In the moments to days following a sexual assault, survivors may choose to seek medical care at an emergency department. Hotline Advocates can give you details about this option, and are also always available to support survivors, their families, and their friends in person during a visit to the emergency room for a medical examination or evidence collection kit. They can provide information, share options, and connect survivors with follow-up care such as emergency contraception, pregnancy options, counseling, and other services. 

Hospital emergency room staff will call our hotline to page an advocate to the emergency room when a survivor seeks medical care. If the hospital does not contact an advocate, please call our hotline at 815.932.3322.

You can learn more about options after an assault here.

Follow-Up and Ongoing Support

With your permission, the Hotline Advocate will pass whatever details you’d like on to Clove Alliance staff. They will follow up to check in and make sure you understand the free, compassionate support Clove Alliance can provide, including confidential counseling, advocacy, or legal support. There is no obligation, and getting this information can help you decide which next steps are right for you. Even if now doesn’t feel like the right time, Clove Alliance will be there when you are ready.

Counseling

Clove Alliance counselors are dedicated to offering support, empowerment, and a path toward healing for survivors and their loved ones. Sessions can be conducted in person, via video, or by telephone, with a sole focus on addressing the individual’s sexual trauma. Learn more about counseling here. 

Advocacy

Clove Alliance offers comprehensive support to survivors navigating the legal and medical systems. Our staff advocates provide support to sexual assault victims if they choose to engage with law enforcement, the state’s attorney’s office, or the court system. Additionally, advocates are available to support survivors during emergency room visits for medical examinations or evidence collection kits and can help them access aftercare services. Learn more about advocacy services here.

Legal support

Survivors of sexual violence may choose to seek justice or secure their rights through the legal system. Our attorney offers support that is victim-centered, empathetic, and non-judgmental, ensuring every client is treated with dignity and respect. Learn more about legal services here.

24-Hour Crisis Hotline

Remember, the hotline is always a resource! It is there for survivors, their loved ones and friends, concerned community members—anyone! Whether you are calling for the first time or looking for ongoing support, call 815.932.3322 for free, confidential, and compassionate help.