A story that made my spirit rejoice

It takes a village of concern to create light in very dark places. 

Because the Chicago Torture Justice Center is the first and only center for survivors of domestic police torture in the U.S., in many ways, we are doing things that have never been done before. Our work is unique, and so is our approach. Different from traditional therapy models that focus on individual healing, we view therapy through a community counseling lens. We firmly believe that It is not a sole individual’s responsibility to heal on their own. It is the responsibility of society and communities to support one another in our healing. 

I want to share a story with you that made my spirit rejoice. A participant I’ve been working with for the past 6 years has recently decided to transition out of therapy. Throughout these 6 years, we’ve worked together to process the grief of losing a loved one to police violence. This participant has been a pillar of our community throughout the years they’ve been involved, and it’s been an honor and privilege to have walked alongside them on this journey. While grief never truly goes away, it brings me so much joy to know that our approach at the Center helps our community heal in radically transformative ways.

Thank you so much for supporting the Center over the years. In 2019, we offered supportive healing services to 459 survivors. This year alone, we have provided trauma healing services to 1,450 new participants. Help us keep this momentum going. Can you help us reach our goal of raising $200,000?

In community and gratitude,

Nate Gilham

Clinical Director