Guardian Angel Community Services: Over a Century of Protecting Families and Children
Founded in Joliet in 1897 as an orphanage, Guardian Angel Community Services is one of Illinois’ oldest continuous non-profits. Today, its Groundwork program and Sexual Assault Service Center provide confidential shelter, 24-hour hotlines, and legal advocacy for survivors across Will County.
Originating on Plainfield Road more than 125 years ago, Guardian Angel Community Services (GACS) has evolved alongside the needs of Joliet’s residents. When domestic violence threatens personal safety, GACS’s Groundwork program provides emergency safe shelter, transitional apartments, child counseling, and 24-hour emergency intervention.
Its dedicated legal advocates accompany survivors to the Will County Courthouse to secure protective orders, while specialized counselors in the Sexual Assault Service Center offer free medical advocacy and therapy. Through emergency response and community education, GACS helps families break cycles of trauma and rebuild safe, independent lives.
