OUR HISTORY

Neopolitan Lighthouse provides support services to victims of domestic violence in order to assist them in achieving and maintaining self-sufficiency and self-reliance. Neopolitan is dedicated to promoting the safety, physical, emotional and practical needs of victims within a supportive environment where they may explore their options and make healthy choices regarding their lives and the lives of their children.

Neopolitan Lighthouse was founded in 1984 by a group of professional survivors and men who recognized the critical need for domestic violence support services for victims and children on the west side of Chicago in the Humboldt Park and Garfield Park communities. This not-for-profit community-based organization originated as a grass-roots volunteer effort. During its first two years of operation, Neopolitan Lighthouse provided victims/survivors of domestic violence with a 24-hour crisis line, counseling, and advocacy services. Neopolitan utilized “safe homes” in the community to shelter battered victims and their children, and addressed the needs of the larger community through food distribution, after-school tutoring and adult literacy programs.

The purpose of Neopolitan Lighthouse is to provide services that encourage victims/survivors of domestic violence in overcoming the trauma of abuse they have experienced in order to regain their dignity and self-respect. The services and activities available to achieve these goals include: a 24-hour crisis line, crisis intervention counseling, intake and assessments, information/referrals, room and board, client-centered individual counseling, group counseling, Illinois Domestic Violence (court) Advocacy, benefit/system advocacy, case management, health care services, mental health services, job training, financial counseling, economic assistance, vocational advocacy, employment assistance, and a comprehensive children’s program.

The outreach program provides walk-in services, individual counseling, information and referrals, follow-up services, domestic violence awareness, and education. Neopolitan believes it is important to educate the community on the rights of victims of domestic violence and the devastating effects that domestic violence has on families, children and the community as a whole.