Project IRENE (Organization)

Social justice organization promoting the well-being of women and children. Project IRENE began as a result of the initiative of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious Region 8, July 1996. The shortened name of this organization is derived from the first letters of the formal title: Illinois Religious Engaging in Nonviolent Endeavors. Its mission is to create systemic change through legislation related to decreasing violence against women and children in Illinois. The Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) represents over forty religious congregations. Motivated by their commitment to justice, Contact Sisters -- one woman religious from each congregation -- act as community organizers working in collaboration with the Project IRENE director. The director focused on analyzing, educating, advocating, and representing the public face of LCWR in its support of women and children. She spends part of her time at the Illinois State Capitol attending legislative sessions and meeting with elected officials.