Cook County Historical Society Unveils New Exhibit Honoring 40 Years of the Violence Prevention Center

The Cook County Historical Society is proud to announce the opening of a new temporary exhibit, Rural Women Lead the Way, commemorating the Violence Prevention Center’s (VPC) 40th Anniversary. 

This exhibit highlights moments of VPC’s journey from a grassroots volunteer initiative to what it is today. The exhibit is the first installment of a new series at the Historical Society dedicated to exploring the stories of local organizations that have made a profound impact on the region.

The VPC began in 1986, when it was originally established as the Cook County Women's Collective. In its earliest days, the organization operated out of a founder’s basement, managed by a dedicated team of five trained volunteers. These volunteers worked with limited resources, sharing a single pager borrowed from a founder’s husband to ensure they remained reachable 24/7 to those in need. 

Today, the Violence Prevention Center provides services to those affected by intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, child abuse, teen dating violence, stalking, harassment, and elder abuse. The organization offers education and training, support groups, legal advocacy, and emergency services. 

The exhibit is expected to remain on display through the end of 2026, offering community members and visitors a chance to reflect on four decades of VPC’s important work.

As the Historical Society continues its mission to share the stories of our area, it invites the public to participate in future efforts. Community members who wish to suggest a local organization for a future temporary exhibit are encouraged to submit their ideas via email to history@boreal.org.

To see the most up-to-date museum hours, visit: cookcountyhistory.org/cook-county-museum