It’s pretty widely known around this community that Courage Connection, a local domestic violence shelter, is in dire straits due to the ongoing budget impasse. Many have stepped up to donate and host fundraisers, but Junior League of Champaign-Urbana is taking things to a new level. They’ve just announced that they will be matching donations up to $50,000 to support this organization that they’ve been partnering with for years. If you’ve ever thought about donating, now’s the time. Here are the details:
Junior League of CU and Courage Connection Board of Directors Announce
Match for Courage
Current and former board members of Courage Connection, in conjunction with the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana, have created a $50,000 matching gift fund called Match for Courage to support its mission of providing housing and supportive services for individuals and families who are victims of domestic violence.
Starting June 12th, all monetary donations will be matched dollar for dollar up to $50,000. Donations can be sent to 508 E. Church Street, Champaign, IL 61820 or made online at courageconnection.org.
When the state of Illinois failed to pay on a contract for over $300,000 to serve families who have suffered from domestic violence in Champaign County, Courage Connection was in danger of closing. At risk was a legacy of support, shelter and service: 24 hour hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, court advocacy, transitional housing, job readiness programs, parenting education, children’s programs, safety planning, and more.
The State challenges are far from over and Courage Connection is not quite out of the woods yet. With $100,000 left to raise, the Match for Courage has the potential to close the gap.
“We are honored to be able to work with Courage Connection and support them at this crucial time,” said Janette Jurczyk, president of JLCU. “Junior League has been serving the Champaign-Urbana community for 85 years and has been part of the creation of so many organizations that supply such important services to women and families. We cannot stand by and watch as Courage Connection faces the risk of closing their doors. As a long-standing supporter and partner of this institution, we are choosing to step up and participate in this $50,000 donation campaign with matching funds.”
The Junior League of Champaign-Urbana has been a long-time partner and supporter of Courage Connection, from its earlier days as The Women’s Emergency Shelter of Champaign County and A Center for Women in Transition. JLCU’s mission includes a commitment to programs that work towards the elimination of domestic violence and support shelters for children and families. JLCU has also supplied grant money and volunteers to support Courage Connection throughout its evolution and has created, funded and supported programs for its residents and children.
A former board member of Courage Connection, who asked to remain anonymous, said “I am overwhelmed by the incredible outreach from and support of our community. That so many people have stepped up to help save lives makes me that much more proud of being a part of this agency’s long history. Thank you.”