Annual Report 2025

The Kids' Place is a secure waiting areas for children ages two through twelve. Services are available free of charge to parents and guardians who are required to appear in either the Winnebago County Courthouse or Criminal Justice Center. The Kids' Place facility is located in the lower level of the Winnebago County Courthouse. Children are supervised by professional YMCA staff and provide cheerful atmospheres for children to take part in fun activities like arts, crafts, organized games, reading and music. Since its beginning in 1998, over 53,931 children have used the services of The Kids' Place. In 2025, a total of 634 children were entrusted in the care of the Kids' Place.

The 17th Judicial Circuit Family Violence Coordinating Council (FVCC), chaired by Hon. Jennifer Clifford, is a collaborative group of professionals from across disciplines who meet regularly to promote a coordinated response to family violence- including domestic violence, teen dating violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. The FVCC's six committees focus their efforts in three primary areas: training, prevention, and awareness.

In April 2025, the FVCC hosted “Hands Around the Courthouse” and “Hands Around the Park” to raise awareness for and support Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in both Winnebago and Boone Counties. In the summer, both Boone and Winnebago Counties held their annual symposiums which focused on responses to financial abuse of older adults and addressing trauma responses for youth impacted by violence. In October 2025, the FVCC sponsored Domestic Violence Awareness Month events for Winnebago and Boone counties. These events included a weekly virtual lunch and learn series, a Rockford City Market booth, and the annual Shining the Light on Domestic Violence ceremonies in Boone and Winnebago Counties at the end of the month.

The Domestic Violence Assistance Center (DVAC) is located in the Winnebago County Courthouse, on the 3rd floor of the “Old Courthouse” above Traffic Court. The DVAC offers free and confidential Order of Protection assistance for those who qualify. For more information contact 815-962-9980.

In 2025, the DVAC greeted 1,127 patrons. and assisted 65 individuals at kiosks. Remedies assisted in filing 330 petitions.