CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — This October, Courage Connection — the region’s leading domestic violence service provider — is inviting the community to stand together in strength, support, and celebration.

“Courage on the Block”, a free, family-friendly event, will take place on Saturday, October 18 from 12 to 3 p.m. at The Yard on Broadway (401 N. Broadway Ave., Urbana). The event honors Domestic Violence Awareness Month and celebrates the resilience of survivors in Champaign, Ford, Piatt, and Douglas counties.

Hosted in partnership with the City of Urbana and The Yard on Broadway, the event aims to uplift survivors and promote community healing in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. “This event is about joy, connection, and honoring the strength of survivors,” said a spokesperson from Courage Connection. “Domestic violence affects people from all walks of life, and we want this day to be a celebration of resilience — a reminder that healing is possible, and no one is alone.”

Event Highlights:

  • Live DJs from the Darker Than Blue DJ Collective: DJ BLACKSTAR & DJ MIXZN

  • Free food vouchers for select menu items from local favorites: Smith Burger Co, Watson’s Shack and Rail, Fernando’s Tacos and More, Regal Pig Social, Columbia St Café, The Main Scoop, and Public House 1833

  • Family fun zone with games and kids’ activities

  • Community raffle with prizes for attendees

In a show of community support, Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams will offer remarks focused on community resilience and healing. Urbana Police Chief Larry Boone will also be in attendance to recognize the department’s ongoing partnership with Courage Connection and commitment to violence prevention and public safety. “It takes all of us to address domestic violence as a societal issue,” said Courage Connection. “That’s why we’re building spaces like this — where healing, awareness, and community care come together.”

Courage Connection provides 24-hour crisis services, emergency and transitional housing, legal advocacy, therapy, and stabilization programs for survivors and their families. They also lead community education and outreach efforts to prevent abuse before it starts.

For more information on the event or to learn how you can support survivors, visit www.courageconnection.org or follow Courage Connection on social media.