May 2026 - Restoring Hope, Healing Lives
- Remona Sanders
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
The Restoration Connection
May 2026 • Restoring Hope, Healing Lives
FEATURE STORY
A New Season of Restoration
April marked a season of reflection and preparation. As we step into May, INella Restoration Center is expanding its reach through trauma-informed care, school-based programs, and community outreach.
COMMUNITY
Mental Health Event
A powerful gathering focused on healing, faith, and resilience through shared experiences and practical tools.
OPPORTUNITY
Upcoming Job Fair
Date: [Insert]
Location: [Insert]
LEADERSHIP
Board Member Spotlight
CLIENT VOICE
Letter to Myself
I am writing this letter because I need to begin trying to forgive myself.
What happened was serious, and it was not supposed to happen that way. I can’t ignore that I made a decision in a moment that has had consequences for everyone involved. I take full responsibility for my actions.
I understand that hurting someone - even in the middle of fear or anger - is not something I ever wanted for my life. But I also recognize that I was in an unhealthy situation. I was overwhelmed, scared, and reacting from a place of survival.
I forgive myself for staying.
I forgive myself for reacting from pain.
I forgive myself for not handling everything perfectly.
I forgive myself for loving when there was no love there.
I forgive myself for letting people walk over me.
I am choosing to grow from this. I am choosing counseling. I am choosing accountability. I am choosing to become healthier and stronger. This moment does not define my entire life.
I am starting my journey to heal.
I will gain back my peace.
I will have a future that is better than my past.
Community Impact Update
March was a powerful and impactful month at IRC as we honored Women’s History Month through education, empowerment, and community engagement.
As we move into April, we recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Recently, our Executive Director and a Board Member attended Reclaiming My Power: A Conversation and Book Signing with Reshona Landfair at CanHope, continuing our commitment to advocacy, awareness, and support for survivors.
Two clients moved into their new apartments and received free furniture through one of our partners!
We hosted two meaningful workshops:
From Survival to Strength presented by IRC Board Member Rashida Hughes and Intern Samari Valdez.
Taking Back Your Power: Rebuilding Confidence After Emotional and Psychological Abuse presented by Associate Director Maredeth Teamer and Intern Samari Valdez.
Together, we continue to educate, uplift, and restore.
Upcoming Events
April Workshop at New Moms (Child Abuse Awareness Month)
Launch of Teen Healthy Relationship Workshop in May
Digital Equity Project
IRC continues to support digital inclusion efforts through the Cook County Digital Equity Project, helping ensure communities have access to the tools and resources needed to thrive.
Join Our Advisory Board
INellas Restoration Center (IRC) is currently recruiting dynamic leaders, executives, and community partners to join our Advisory Board—a strategic group dedicated to expanding our impact and advancing our mission.The IRC Advisory Board is a non-governing body, that serves as ambassadors and thought partners to our Executive Director. Members play a critical role in helping us grow by increasing funding, visibility, partnerships, and advocacy efforts to support trauma-informed, restorative services for women, families, and communities.
We are seeking individuals who are passionate about:
Strengthening communities through advocacy and awareness
Leveraging their networks to create meaningful partnerships
Supporting sustainable growth and resource development
Advisory Board members will:
Contribute to fundraising efforts through a Give/Get model (up to $3,000 annually)
Make strategic introductions to potential donors, sponsors, and partners
Support events, campaigns, and long-term organizational growth
Serve as public ambassadors, amplifying IRC’s mission and impact
This is an opportunity to use your leadership, influence, and expertise to help scale meaningful change and support survivors on their journey to healing and restoration.
With gratitude,The INellas Restoration Center Team
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7627 Lake Street, Suite 206 . River Forest, IL 60305-1878 . 331-979-1542
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