The Visitation Exchange Center program, offered by the Family Violence Coordinating Councils in Madison and St. Clair Counties, Illinois, the 20th Judicial Court and 3rd Judicial Court, and administered by the Children First Foundation, serves families experiencing exceptional difficulty in the transfer of children for the purpose of visitation. These difficulties often result in exposing the children to adult conflicts (including verbal abuse, threats of violence and violence).  All participants are referred by the Court and must have a court order specifying their participation.  Upon referral, each participant must make an appointment for an orientation class. When orientations are completed, exchanges will begin.  The phone number for scheduling orientations is 618-235-6192 in St. Clair County.  Ask for Christy.  In Madison County the number is 618-251-6214 (9am-noon).  Ask for Bev. 

The design of the program is such that the exchange will occur without the parents having physical or visual contact with one another.  The Exchange Centers are staffed by a Site Leader (who manages the process and completes documentation), and a Security Officer.  At any time that the parties believe they no longer need the structure of the Exchange Center, they may petition the Court.  A new court order must be issued for any changes, or removal. There is also "fully" supervised visitation available in Madison County (beginning 9/1/08). This is also court ordered, and the entry process is the same. Call Bev for further information.

The times of operation are Wednesdays from 4-7:45 pm, and Fridays and Sundays from 5-7:45 pm.  A couple's specific exchange times will be determined at the orientation. These must be followed to participate in the program.  Court orders will be followed by staff until another order is issued by the court and a copy is given to the Site Leader or Security Officer.