April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to honor survivors, raise awareness about sexual violence, and take action to prevent harm in our communities. At Clove Alliance, we believe in creating a world free from sexual violence by providing support to survivors and educating the public on prevention. This year, we invite you to join us at our SAAM events to learn, engage, and show solidarity with survivors!

Why SAAM Matters

Sexual violence affects millions of people across the country. 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. However, many cases go unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of support. SAAM provides an opportunity for communities to come together to support survivors, promote education, and foster a culture of prevention.

Join Us for These SAAM Events

Clove Alliance is hosting a variety of events throughout SAAM. Mark your calendars and get involved this April!

Business After Hours

📅 April 2 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Clove Alliance Watseka Office
We’re opening our doors to the community for “Business After Hours,” a casual networking event at our Watseka office. See firsthand where hope and healing happen, connect with our staff, and learn how to get involved with our mission to end sexual harm. Enjoy food, cocktails, and a chance to win a door prize! This event is generously sponsored by the Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce.

Max and Molly Body Safety Programs

📅 April 7 | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍Bourbonnais Public Library
📅 April 9 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Kankakee Public Library (with Special Guest Buckeye!)
Children learn about body safety at this engaging and age-appropriate program with Max and Molly, two teddy bears with an important message. These interactive events help kids understand boundaries, safe adults, and personal safety. It is ideal for pre-k to second-grade children.

Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser

📅 April 9-13 | 6:00 PM opening day to 6 PM closing day
Order delicious gourmet popcorn and support Clove Alliance! 50% of every sale goes directly to our mission of helping survivors and preventing sexual violence. Look for details on our Facebook and Instagram when it goes live. 

Brave, Bold, and Believed Art Show

📅 April 10 – May 10
📍 Kankakee County Museum
Experience the power of art as local artists showcase pieces that honor survivors’ resilience and raise awareness about sexual violence. Visit the museum during regular hours to view these inspiring works. Opening night on April 10 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM will be especially impactful!

Culver’s Fundraiser

📅 April 22 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Culver’s Bourbonnais
Enjoy a meal at Culver’s in Bourbonnais, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Clove Alliance. Dine in, carry out, or drive-thru to show your support. It’s that easy!

Mental Health Round Table

📅 April 25 | 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
📍Riverside Medical Center Dining Room, 350 N Wall St, Kankakee
Join us as we talk through signs of sexual abuse, response to disclosure, and the Clove Alliance services for survivors and our community.  

Sexual Violence Crisis Intervention Training

📅 April 28 to May 21 | 6:00 PM -8:30 PM Monday and Wednesday, and two Saturdays
📍 Clove Alliance’s Main Office, Kankakee 
This comprehensive 40-hour training is beneficial for anyone who wants to better understand sexual violence and how to support survivors. It is also a requirement for those who wish to volunteer with our organization. Clove Alliance staff and community subject matter experts lead sessions.

Resilience Documentary Screening

📅 April 30 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 KCC
Join us for a special screening of Resilience: The Biology of Stress & the Science of Hope. This powerful documentary explores how trauma impacts health long-term and what we can do to support healing and prevention. Refreshments, resource tables, and a panel discussion will round out this collaborative event with Child Network and United Way.

Get Involved This SAAM

• Attend an event—or several: Show your support by participating in our SAAM events.
• Share information: Spread the word about SAAM and Clove Alliance’s work on social media.
• Donate: Your contributions help provide counseling, advocacy, and educational programs to survivors and the community.
• Volunteer: Join us in making a difference! Training starts on April 28.

Together, We Can End Sexual Violence

Ending sexual violence requires a collective effort. By showing up, educating ourselves, and supporting survivors, we create a safer and more compassionate world.

For full event details and to get involved, visit clovealliance.org/events.

Let’s stand together this April—and every month—to support survivors and work toward a future free from sexual violence.