The unique needs of children are best served at the CAC due to our multidisciplinary, coordinated approach to child abuse cases.  Our CAC provides victims with the most support possible to reduce any additional trauma, facilitate timely referrals for services, and assures the best outcomes for child victims and their families.

Forensic Interview

Forensic interviews are used to elicit testimony from a witness or suspected victim. They are triggered by an outcry, a suspicion, or when authorities believe a child is a material or bystander witness to a matter under investigation.

A forensic interview is a fact-finding conversation led be a specially trained interviewer, giving the child a safe and comfortable space to share why they are at the CAC.  The interviewer asks non-leading questions to gather accurate information about what may have occurred.

Advocacy and Support

Family Advocates work directly with the child and non-offending caregiver to identify the child and family’s strengths, coping strategies, and needs going forward. Our Advocates provides, education about child abuse and the investigative process, resources, and referrals to other community agencies when needed. They not only provide emotional support, they connect families with resources (therapy, medical care, legal assistance, financial support). They make sure children and caregivers feel supported every step of the way.

Case Management

The case manager at the CAC acts as a central point of contact and facilitate referrals to necessary services like mental health therapy, medical care, and housing assistance. They develop comprehensive service plans, coordinate with the multidisciplinary team which includes law enforcement and medical professionals, maintain detailed case documentation. The case manager assesses needs, arranges services, and helps families navigate the complex system of child protection, and ensures follow-up so no child or family “falls through the cracks.”