About Us

SHALVA is the oldest independent, Jewish domestic abuse agency in the United States. SHALVA carries out its mission by providing counseling, supportive services and community education. Since 1986 we have worked to break the cycle of abuse by giving survivors the support they need and educating the community about intimate partner abuse.

SHALVA is an Illinois not-for-profit 501(c)3 and certified by the State of Illinois to provide domestic violence counseling. All SHALVA therapists are Illinois-Certified Domestic Violence Professionals (ICDVP) and are Certified Clinical Trauma Professionals (CCTP). SHALVA is sensitive to the unique religious and cultural issues many Jewish families face while also addressing the universal needs all abuse survivors must face.

We train rabbis, police officers, medical professionals, teachers, mental health professionals and community groups to safely and sensitively respond to the needs of survivors of domestic abuse. In addition, we work to raise awareness and build a strong community to end the cycle of domestic abuse and promote healthy relationships. Leadership has been instrumental in facilitating national and international dialogues on the specific needs of Jewish families experiencing domestic violence.

SHALVA is an active member of The Network, Family Violence & Community Collaboration, Chicago Says No More, Partnership for a Safer Lake County, North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic, Northwest Suburban Alliance on Domestic Violence, Welfare Council of Highland Park, NEFESH, Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Decalogue Society of Lawyers and the Chicago Bar Association Domestic Relations Committee.