A Visit to the CAC

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What to Expect Brochure

Services Provided

Child Friendly Place
The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) is a warm and welcoming place for both children and adults. In our Center, children and their families can meet with the professionals who work in the field of child abuse. It is our goal to assist child abuse victims and their families through the investigative process and help families through the difficult process of healing.

Victim Advocacy
The Child and Family Advocate is here to work with families during the investigative process by providing support, information and referrals. This can come in many shapes and forms and is tailored to meet the specific needs of each family. It is our goal to help families feel less isolated and more informed during this traumatic time.

Non-Offending Caregiver's &
Children's Support Group
The CAC offers support groups to assist parents whose children have been victims of sexual abuse. The goal of the group is to help parents through the difficult process of healing. It meets twice a year in six-week sessions.

Counseling Services
The CAC offers counseling services that are designed to support child abuse victims and their families through the healing process after the abuse. Individual and family counseling is offered on a weekly basis.

Adopt-A-Bear program
All children who visit the CAC may select a stuffed animal of their choice to take home with them. The goal of this program is to give children choices so that they can regain control, provide children with something positive to focus on, and give children something to use as comfort in a traumatizing and confusing situation. The stuffed animals are donated by generous individuals and community groups.

Resource Library
The CAC maintains a library of books and videos relating to child abuse. They were purchased to help educate children, adults, and professionals working in the field of child abuse. Topics in our library include: child abuse, parenting after child abuse, and child abuse prevention. These resources are available to loan to community members and parents.

Kids Court
The CAC offers court preparation to help prepare children who have to testify in court. The program helps explain the court process to children and includes a tour of the courtroom. On the day of court, the Child and Family Advocate will attend court with children and families to provide support and help limit stress and discomfort.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund
This state program provides financial help to innocent victims of crime. Financial assistance can be applied for to help cover medical expenses, mental health, counseling bills and pain and suffering for victims of child sexual abuse. Staff at the Child Advocacy Center can assist with the application to this program.

Community Education Programs
The CAC provides community education focused on prevention and early intervention of child abuse. The key to addressing the issue of child abuse is to educate the community about abuse, services available to victims and the legal obligation of all members of the community to report suspected child abuse. Staff at the CAC are available for presentations to community organizations and groups.

Professional Training