Counseling center launches women-helping-women initiative

Roughly 60 percent of the nearly 1,500 people served each year by Samaritan Interfaith Counseling Center in Naperville are women.

Many can't afford the $145 hourly fee for a certified therapist without a subsidy.

So the center is asking women to help other women by attending a fundraising breakfast for a new Silent Samaritan Program from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Wednesday at Holiday Inn Select, 1801 N. Naper Blvd., Naperville.

The breakfast costs $20. Women who contribute at least $100 will become Silent Samaritans.

Development director Linda Kolaya said proceeds from the program will help the center continue to do what it has always done -- provide counseling services regardless of a client's ability to pay.

"We never turn anyone away," Kolaya said.

Last year, the center provided more than $537,000 in subsidized services to those in need.

Inquiries are at an all-time high due to the stresses many families are under, Kolaya said.

Women are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely than men to be victims of physical, sexual and emotional abuse. More women than men report suffering from depression.

They also may be less able to afford the help they need because of divorce and single parenthood.

Helping women may be a way to help the whole family, Kolaya said.

"They often are the first ones in the family to reach out for counseling," she said.

The center's clients range in age from 3 to older than 80, Kolaya said.

One of the biggest increases in services is for children on the autism spectrum.

"That in and of itself creates an enormous amount of stress on family life," she said.

The 37-year-old center receives support from a number of religious congregations, although anyone can use its services.

"A lot of people feel a lot of comfort in knowing they are receiving services from a faith-based organization," Kolaya said.

The breakfast is open to all women, but they're asked to make reservations by calling (630) 357-2456 or contacting lkolaya@samaritancenter.org. Payment may be made at the door.

If you go

What:Silent Samaritan Program breakfast

When:7:30 to 9 a.m. Wednesday

Where:Holiday Inn Select, 1801 Naper Blvd., Naperville

Cost: $20

Call:(630) 357-2456 or lkolaya@samaritancenter.org