R. A. C. E. S.

10/13/2026

We are proud to serve Douglas County and feel fortunate to have our Associate Director participating in the 2026-2027 Douglas County EDC LeaderUp program.

Meet the Class | LeaderUP 2026–2027

Sarah Daly | R**e Advocacy, Counseling & Education Services

What we know and what we have learned about Sarah’s work is that it is rooted in listening, advocacy, education and meeting people where they are.

Our first class offered another reminder of just how
differently people communicate, process and respond. It helped to highlight why understanding those differences matters when our work is centered around people.

10/09/2026

Preventing violence starts with confronting the systems closest to us every single day.

10/09/2026

10/05/2026

RACES is hiring a full-time Director of Prevention Education to lead the agency's Prevention Education Program and provide age-appropriate, trauma-informed programming to audiences of all ages.

Compensation & support:
• $56,650-$60,000 per year
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Agency retirement contribution
• Paid time off and parental leave
• Employee assistance program
• Professional development assistance
• Qualified employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Spanish-English bilingual candidates are especially encouraged to apply and receive an additional $2,500 annually.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to [email protected]. Position closed as soon as it is filled.

Learn more at cu-races.org/jobs.
RACES is an Equal Opportunity Employer. People of all genders, races and ethnicities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

10/02/2026

RACES stands with Jane Doe and all survivors. Confidential support is available 24/7 at 217-384-4444.

09/10/2026

When someone discloses sexual violence, your response matters.

You do not need to have the perfect words. A supportive response can start with listening, believing them, thanking them for trusting you, and letting them decide what they want to do next.

Try:
“I believe you.”
“I’m sorry this happened.”
“Thank you for telling me.”
“How can I support you?”

Avoid pressing for details, asking blaming “why” questions, or taking over their decisions. Follow their lead and offer support without pressure.

Learn more about responding to disclosures at startbybelieving.org/what-to-say.

24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 217-384-4444

09/09/2026

Therapy can look different for everyone, and there is no one “right” way to heal.

Individual therapy offers one-on-one space to explore what you’re experiencing, work toward goals that matter to you, build coping skills, and talk through concerns at a pace that feels manageable.

It’s also okay to have questions before you begin. You can ask a therapist what sessions usually look like, what approaches they use, what you may be expected to talk about, and how your goals and preferences will shape the process. Finding a therapist who helps you feel heard, respected, and involved in your care matters.

RACES offers free, confidential therapy for anyone sexual violence. You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out.

Learn more at cu-races.org
24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 217-384-4444

09/08/2026

Mark your calendars: 9/8 is !

Join us in raising awareness of the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline and reminding our communities that support is available. This year’s theme, “988 Reasons: Your reason is reason enough,” reminds us that you do not have to wait until things feel unbearable to reach out.

Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, to connect with the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

If what you’re experiencing is connected to sexual violence, RACES also provides free, confidential support for survivors and their loved ones in Champaign, Ford, Douglas, and Piatt counties.

24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 217-384-4444

Learn more about 988 Day and find resources to use and share at samhsa.gov/988Day.

09/06/2026

RACES will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.

Even while our office is closed, support remains available. Our 24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline is open for anyone impacted by sexual violence who would like confidential support, information, or help exploring their options.

We are here with you.
24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 217-384-4444

09/03/2026

Support is available 24/7.

When you call the RACES Sexual Violence Hotline at 217-384-4444, you’ll first reach our answering service. You can request a Spanish-speaking representative if you prefer, and you do not have to give your name—callers can remain anonymous.

From there, you can choose what feels most comfortable:

▶ Leave a phone number for a RACES advocate to call you back

▶ Ask to be connected with an advocate right away

Our advocates can listen, answer questions, provide emotional support, share resources, and talk through your options with you. You do not need to know exactly what you need before you call.

RACES provides free, confidential support for people impacted by sexual violence in Champaign, Ford, Douglas, and Piatt counties.

We are here with you.
24/7 Sexual Violence Hotline: 217-384-4444