Mutual Ground Celebrates 50 Years of Service with Open House Celebration

Aurora, IL –  Mutual Ground proudly invites the community to join them in celebrating a major milestone – their 50th Anniversary – with an Open House Celebration on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Waubonsee Community College’s Downtown Aurora Campus (18 S. River Street, Aurora, IL) - the very place where the organization first began its mission five decades ago.

With the theme “Honoring where we’ve been, celebrating where we are, and toasting to what’s ahead,” this special evening commemorates Mutual Ground’s half-century of providing life-saving services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence and those struggling with substance use disorders.

The event will feature:
• A survivor art show showcasing strength, resilience and healing
• Historical displays highlighting key moments in Mutual Ground’s journey
• An engaging program reflecting on 50 years of impact
• Interactive “Chat with Us” sessions with Mutual Ground department managers
• A community toast to the future of the organization
• Light appetizers and beverages for all guests

Event Timeline
5:00 – 5:30 p.m. | Welcome, History Displays & Art Show
5:30 – 6:00 p.m. | Program: Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Journey
6:00 – 7:15 p.m. | “Chat with Us” Department Sessions
7:15 – 7:30 p.m. | Toast to the Future

Waubonsee Community College holds a special significance as the host of this celebration marking the very place where, in 1974, four courageous women came together to form the Women’s Development Council, planting the seeds of what would become Mutual Ground. From those early, formative meetings on campus emerged a powerful vision rooted in a simple yet profound mission: to provide safety, support and a voice for individuals affected by domestic violence. Over time, that mission has grown to encompass support for those impacted by sexual violence and substance use, reflecting Mutual Ground’s enduring commitment to walking alongside individuals on their journey to healing.

This celebration is free and open to the public. All are welcome—supporters, volunteers, partners, community members, and anyone interested in being a part of Mutual Ground’s future.

For more information or to RSVP please visit www.MutualGround.org/50th-birthday or contact bsantana@mutualground.org.

In addition to this celebration, the City of Aurora will formally recognize this important milestone with a proclamation at the City Council Meeting on August 12, 2025, applauding Mutual Ground for five decades of unwavering support, advocacy and leadership in the community.

“Mutual Ground has served as a true beacon of light in Aurora, acting as a source of strength, healing and hope,” said Aurora Mayor John Laesch in the official proclamation.

About Mutual Ground
Founded in 1975, Mutual Ground is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit organizations in Illinois supporting individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and substance use. Serving individuals and families across the Kendall and Kane County areas, Mutual Ground empowers survivors and helps build safe, thriving futures through education, advocacy and comprehensive support.