Survivor Lifeline: Making Meaningful Moments

WINGS Survivor Lifeline program pairs compassionate volunteer mentors, who are survivors of domestic violence relationships themselves, with survivors moving out of domestic violence relationships. This past year, Survivor Lifeline expanded into Chicago, matched 84 survivors with mentors, and provided 1,267 hours of mentoring. Learn about a healing event participants experienced, a mentor’s perspective on why she continues to volunteer, and an upcoming educational event.

Making Meaningful Moments – Survivor Lifeline Visit to Soulful Prairies

Survivor Lifeline Mentors and Mentees gazing out over a peaceful lake at Soulful Prairies.

Recently, WINGS brought Survivor Lifeline mentors and mentees together for a rejuvenating day at Soulful Prairies. This event offered a rare and meaningful opportunity for many mentees to meet their mentors in person for the first time.

Together attendees shared in thoughtful activities, meaningful conversations, and in memorable moments of connection. Participants got to experience Equine Gestalt therapy with horses in a tranquil environment.

“The day was filled with beauty, reflection, and bonding,” Elizabeth, WINGS Survivor Lifeline Coordinator and organizer of this trip says.

One participant shared a heartfelt testimonial after the event:

“First, I thank God for allowing to give us a beautiful trip as unforgettable as the one you gave us. Also, thanks to the generous people who gave us the opportunity.

 My experience was very beautiful next to several people I did not know, and I learned that life is very beautiful. I also understood that each person has different problems.

 My experience with horses was very beautiful, I loved it. It was an unforgettable experience. The part I loved most was leaving a piece of myself in that place. Thank You,” Mina*, a Survivor Lifeline Mentee

*WINGS uses representative names to protect the dignity and security of those we serve.

Volunteer Mentor Shares

Volunteer mentors are a crucial part of the program’s success. As Survivor Lifeline expands, WINGS searches for more volunteer survivor mentors, especially mentors that are fluent in Spanish.

If you are more than one year removed from your personal domestic violence experience, have good communication skills, and are compassionate, this volunteer position could be for you.

Survivor Lifeline volunteer Kristine U. shares her experience:

Survivor Lifeline Volunteer Mentor, Kristine U.

“I started volunteering with WINGS as a Survivor Lifeline Mentor in February of 2023 where I was matched with my mentee. Our relationship has grown into a friendship over these past 2 years…

I continue to volunteer for WINGS because I know what it is like to be in survival mode, and just pretending to be able to handle everything life throws at you. I went through my past traumas alone because I was ashamed and felt that I needed to do everything for myself to regain my independence and confidence. That is the farthest thing from the truth, I needed help and support from others who have experienced similar situations…

After learning all the resources that could have been available to me that I was not previously aware of, I decided that I do not want anyone else to have to go through this alone and there is nothing to be ashamed/embarrassed of.

I want to provide hope for the future by supporting and educating others through their journey with realistic expectations that there are truly good and bad days, but now you will have someone to be there for all those experiences and we will get through them together.”

Interested in Becoming a Mentor?

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Survivor Lifeline Mentor, contact Bruna.

Upcoming Resource Fair

WINGS is coming together with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County to provide a seminar and resource fair designed to empower women in navigating the justice system.

WINGS Survivor Lifeline Coordinator in Chicago Martha has been working to put this event together. She shares, “We’ve found that the justice system can be an incredibly overwhelming process for survivors to navigate. That is why we are excited to team up with the Clerk of the Circuit Court to share vital information and resources.”

Martha, WINGS Survivor Lifeline Coordinator in Chicago.

Women’s Empowerment Seminar and Resource Fair

Sept. 18^th, 2025, 5pm-7pm

Olive-Harvey College

10001 S. Woodlawn Ave, Chicago, IL 60628

Attendees can expect:

• Gathering resources from service providers
• Hearing from:
  • Clerk of the Circuit Court Mariyana T. Spyropoulos
  • WINGS staff
• Learning self-defense techniques
• And more!

More information coming soon.