WINGS Children’s Advocate Ilona’s Touching Reunion with Survivor Molly
- Posted by Sarah Swiston
- On October 26, 2023
- celebration of courage, Chicago, chicago metropolitan area, Chicago suburbs, children services, children survivors dv, Domestic Violence, domestic violence agency, domestic violence organization, DV agency, dv survivors, End Domestic Violence, family services, Housing Programs, independence, inspiration, mission, non-profit, non-profit agencies, Philanthropy, Reunion, Shelters, WINGS, WINGS Program
Read about WINGS Children’s Advocate Ilona’s touching reunion with survivor Molly as Ilona reflects on the importance of WINGS mission.
Just a Normal Resource Fair Until…
At a local high school community fair, WINGS Children’s Advocate, Ilona LCSW, CDVP was overseeing a table about WINGS resources.
Suddenly she looked up and saw a past client, Molly. Moments later, Ilona was receiving the biggest hug from Molly.
Reflections
Ilona reflected back to when she met Molly and her son at WINGS Safe House several years ago. At the time, Molly was physically and emotionally wounded. She didn’t know what to expect entering the Safe House and how to trust.
Ilona shares, “We met every week for family and parenting sessions which allowed her to process her experiences and rebuild her self-worth. Her son participated in counseling services and made friends too.
I still remember our meetings which included both laughter and tears as well as meaningful conversations. I saw Molly growing stronger every day.
Molly and her son would play and read together. I loved seeing them making new memories and strengthening their connection with each other.”
Despite her challenges and the abuse she experienced, Molly never gave up.
Ilona recalls, “Molly always pushed forward, one step, one resource, and one connection at a time. She was the best advocate for her son and always eager to learn new parenting techniques.”
Back at the Resource Fair
After their initial greeting at the community fair, Ilona looked at Molly. She was smiling and beaming with peace and contentment. The best part came when Molly spoke, “I just launched my private practice and have started seeing clients.”
Happy tears filled Ilona’s eyes. Ilona shares that seeing Molly, “made me realize how important WINGS mission is. It was an amazing privilege to be a part of her journey and seeing her the other day was the best reward for me.
Her loving and peaceful nature, gratitude, and hunger for a better life have been an inspiration to me.”
As a Children’s Advocate, Ilona assisted Molly and her son when they needed it the most.
Now that Molly is healthy and happier, she not only inspires Ilona but can assist others in their time of need.
You Can Create Change
There are many ways you can be a part of a survivor’s journey to freedom and continue the ripple of change. Donate before the end of the year and help us meet our $125,000 challenge match!
We hope you will consider joining our mission by:
Help is available!
If you think you may be in an abusive relationship, WINGS is available to help.
The agency’s holistic approach ranges from emergency Safe Houses, Transitional Housing, Community-Based Services including mentorship, hospital partnerships, and comprehensive children’s services. Click here to learn more.
Domestic Violence 24-Hr Hotline: 847.221.5680
To learn more about Counseling and/or Mentoring, call WINGS Intake Line: (847) 519-7828.
The Intake Line is answered by trained crisis workers Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. If you should call outside of these hours, please leave a message and a worker will return your call the next business day.
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