With the proper training and education, everyone can have a part in ending domestic violence. One of CAWC’s key pillars of service is just that – we help spread critical knowledge to all who feel compelled and inspired to make a difference, whether they are HR representatives trying to establish an effective response system at their workplace, a health care provider who wants to better support survivors in their care, or concerned community members helping survivors when they have nowhere else to turn.
CAWC provides private training and education as well as a 40-Hour Domestic Violence Training.
CAWC is an approved training site by the Certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional Board and a registered continuing education sponsor by the IL Department of Professional Regulation. This training meets the 40-hour Training requirement to sit for the CDVP exam.
40-Hour Domestic Violence Training
The 40-hour domestic violence training is a comprehensive, foundational program that provides participants with essential knowledge about domestic violence, survivor-centered advocacy, and trauma‑informed response. In Illinois, this training is widely recognized as the required, standard preparation for individuals working with or supporting survivors of domestic violence. It may also be required or highly encouraged for advocates or anyone who may work closely with survivors, such as health care or salon professionals.
Training Schedule
Spring 2026
Duration: May 5 – May 27
Schedule: 2 days a week, 9am – 5pm, in-person and virtual
Cost: $350. Discounts are available for staff of select partner agencies.
Summer 2026
Duration: Aug 4 – Aug 14
Schedule: 4 days a week, 9am – 5pm, in-person and virtual
Cost: $350. Discounts are available for staff of select partner agencies.
Winter 2026
Duration: Nov 3 – Dec 3, no training during Thanksgiving week
Schedule: 4 days a week, timing varies, in-person and virtual
Cost: $350. Discounts are available for staff of select partner agencies.
Winter 2027
Duration: May 5 – May 27
Schedule: 4 days a week, 9am – 5pm, in-person and virtual
Cost: $350. Discounts are available for staff of select partner agencies.
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Volunteer
Learn more about volunteer opportunities with CAWC! We host corporate volunteer days and are looking for dedicated advocates to fill direct service and organizational roles!
Attend an Event
CAWC hosts a variety of exciting events, such as our annual Sounds of Silence gala, our March & Rally for Domestic Violence Awareness, or other unique fundraisers that directly support our work!
Donate
You can directly support the work we accomplish every day by donating online, by check, via DAF, and many other ways. Learn more here!
Support Our Work
Planned Giving
A gift to CAWC in your will or trust is your legacy to ensure happier tomorrows for domestic violence survivors and their children.
Honoring Someone’s Special Day
If you make a gift to CAWC in honor of someone, we will notify the recipient of your thoughtfulness. Many individuals ask friends and family to donate to CAWC in lieu of gift for a special occasion.
Memorial Gifts
If you make a gift to CAWC in memory of someone, we will notify the family of your thoughtfulness.
Stock Gifts
Contact Stephanie Love-Patterson, Executive Director, at 773.489.9081, for information about how to donate stock to CAWC.
Donor Advised Fund
If you have created a Donor Advised Fund, you can recommend making a gift to CAWC.
Matching Gift
Contact your employer to determine if they will match your gift to CAWC. If they have a matching gift program, your gift could double or even triple in value. If you send a form from your employer to CAWC, we can complete the paperwork and initiate the matching gift process.