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About

At Mutual Ground, we believe everyone has the right to live without fear, oppression, abuse, and violence.

vision

A healthy and safe community where everyone reaches their full potential.

mission

To empower individuals, families, and communities to eliminate domestic and sexual violence and the harms of substance use through education, awareness, and life-changing services.

core values

Excellence

At Mutual Ground, we define Excellence as exceeding the expectations of clients, stakeholders and our community.

Integrity

At Mutual Ground, we define Integrity as acting in a moral or ethical manner regardless of circumstances.

Respect

At Mutual Ground, we define Respect as fair, thoughtful and dignified treatment of others.

Empathy

At Mutual Ground, we define Empathy as the experience of understanding another person's condition from their perspective.

Community

At Mutual Ground, we define Community as a dedication to meeting the needs of individuals, families and groups in our service area and beyond.

History

1974

The Women’s Development Council meets at Waubonsee Community College and begins the ideation and creation of Mutual Ground

1975

Mutual Ground is incorporated as a 501(c)3 and counseling and advocacy services for victims of domestic violence begin

1978

Mutual Ground’s first shelter opens in Aurora

1983

Counseling and advocacy services for victims of sexual violence begin

1984

First property is purchased on Lake Street in Aurora with the ability to shelter to fourteen clients

1985

Prevention Education programming is offered in local schools

1997

The Edna Smith Home on Oak Avenue is purchased to centralize services at one location and more than double shelter capacity

2011

Executive Director, Linda Healy, retires after 23 years and is succeeded by the current Executive Director, Michelle Meyer

2015

Satellite counseling office opens in Batavia

2016

Satellite legal advocacy office opens at the Kendall County Courthouse

2017

Satellite counseling office opens in Yorkville

2018

Partnership with Hesed House provides victim services at the Hesed Comprehensive Homeless Resource Center

2018

Property renovations accommodate growth in services and addition of new staff

2019

Board of Directors and Staff undergo a rigorous strategic planning process and create a five-year Strategic Plan

2020

Mutual Ground participates in the establishment of the Kendall County Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT)

2021

Breaking Free merges with Mutual Ground