You Are Why I’m Here …
The heart of our mission is the support we provide to our clients. Jane Binner, a Legal & Medical Advocate at Clove Alliance reflects on her role and the hope and healing she regularly provides:
I often meet new clients at the courthouse, helping with an emergency Order of Protection or Civil No Contact Order; or perhaps bedside at the hospital, while they are having an evidence collection kit performed; or sometimes they just call in or walk in to see what their alternatives are. I am a legal/medical advocate for Clove Alliance and it is my job to help survivors of sexual assault, such as yourself, understand their rights and navigate a complex system. I know none of this was your fault, and I absolutely believe you. I can’t turn back the clock but I can help get you to the other side of this. I do not work for any hospital or law enforcement agency. I am here to tell you what options are available, and support whatever choice you make. Maybe you’d rather not file a police report, and that’s absolutely okay. However, getting tested can still be a good idea. It is not my job to change your mind or encourage criminal investigation. I support you with whatever you choose to do. You may change your mind later, and that’s okay too.
I have a wealth of knowledge at my disposal that can help me find programs and solutions, based on your specifics, that may ease this stressful time for you. Feel free to reach our department at [email protected] or call our office @ (815) 932-7273. The first step towards peace of mind can start here.
By: Jane Binner, Legal & Medical Advocate