TINLEY PARK, IL — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and the Crisis Center for South Suburbia (CCSS) is hosting a month-long series of events aimed at raising awareness, supporting survivors, and engaging the community in the fight against domestic violence.
Founded in 1979, the Crisis Center has served as a lifeline for thousands of individuals and families affected by domestic abuse across the South Suburbs of Chicago. DVAM provides an important opportunity to shine a light on an issue that affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in Illinois, while promoting the resources and support systems available locally.
"Survivors deserve to feel heard, supported, and safe," said Pam Kostecki, Executive Director of CCSS. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a call to action for our entire community, to raise awareness, stand with survivors, and help create a future free from abuse."
Raising funds to support programs and services is also a priority in October as the Crisis Center hopes to raise over $50,000 this month—with the help of a matching gift from the Greer Foundation. You can donate and learn more at www.crisisctr.org. A gift of $50 will cover one night of emergency shelter for a survivor fleeing domestic violence. A gift of $500 can help a family starting over cover one month of rent and take an important step toward stability.
Key Events for DVAM 2026
DVAM Candlelight Vigil: Oct. 6 at 5:30 p.m.
A moving tribute to those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, as well as those still struggling.
Purple Butterflies in Support of Survivors
Neat Repeats Orland Park and Worth
Donate $1 and write a message in support of survivors. Butterflies can also be in honor or memory of someone. Runs all month.
Trivia Night – Oct. 15
Bremen VFW Post 2781, Tinley Park
Doors open at 6 p.m. Join the center for trivia, fun, prizes, raffles, and a cash bar. Rally your crew and put your smarts to the test! Registration is available at www.crisisctr.org/events.
"Butterfly" Cupcakes
Creative Cakes Bakery 16649 Oak Park Ave, Unit F-H
10 percent of proceeds throughout October will benefit CCSS.
Portillo's in Tinley Park (15900 Harlem Ave.)
Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 5 to 8p.m.
Show flyer to cashier at restaurant, available at www.crisisctr.org/get-involved/events. If you order online, use PORTILLOS19 in the coupon code field.
Lou Malnati's in Tinley Park (9501 W. 171st St.)
Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Mention Crisis Center for South Suburbia before placing your order. If you order online, use promo code GIVEBACK25.
You can support the Crisis Center's mission in a variety of ways:
For more information on events, registration, and how to support survivors, visit www.crisisctr.org or follow the Crisis Center on social media
About the Crisis Center for South Suburbia
The Crisis Center for South Suburbia is a non-profit community organization that provides emergency shelter and essential services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence. Serving over 3,400 people annually, CCSS is committed to ending domestic abuse through education, intervention, and advocacy.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tinley Park Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.