Got Questions? We've Got Answers! Explore Our FAQ
A Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) is a child-centered facility that coordinates the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse while ensuring that the child's best interests are the primary consideration. These centers bring together professionals from law enforcement, child protective services, the legal field, medical providers, and therapeutic specialists. By working as a unified team, the CAC provides a compassionate and efficient response to child abuse allegations, minimizing further trauma to the child.
Why am I not allowed to be present to hear what is being asked of my children? I don't want them to speak with my kids without me being in the room.
It's important to understand that discussing child abuse can be an incredibly sensitive and distressing experience for a child. Many children may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or scared to talk about what happened, even with their parents present. They may fear disappointing or upsetting their parents, or they might worry about potential consequences or retribution from the abuser if they disclose the abuse.
Having parents in the room during a forensic interview can create added pressure for the child to share certain details or to tell the story in a particular way. The child might feel like they need to protect their parents from the full extent of the abuse or may hesitate to disclose certain aspects due to fear of judgment or punishment.
By creating a private and confidential setting for the forensic interview, without parents present, the Children's Advocacy Center aims to ensure the child's comfort and safety. The interviewer is typically a specially trained professional who knows how to talk to children in a non-threatening and child-friendly manner. This approach encourages the child to speak freely and openly about their experiences, without fear of negative consequences or judgment.
Children's Advocacy Centers prioritize the child's well-being and emotional needs, and having a confidential space for the interview helps build trust between the child and the interviewer. It allows the child to disclose information at their own pace and in their own words, empowering them to share their experiences in a way that feels safe for them.
After the interview, the information provided by the child is carefully documented and shared with the appropriate professionals involved in the investigation and support process. These professionals work collaboratively to protect the child, hold the abuser accountable, and ensure the child receives the necessary support and resources.
Is your organization the same as the Department of Social Services (DSS)?
A Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) is a special place designed to help children who have experienced abuse or are victims of violent crimes. It is a safe and child-friendly environment where professionals work together to support these children and their families during difficult times.
The main goal of a Children's Advocacy Center is to provide a comprehensive and coordinated response to cases of child abuse. They offer a range of services under one roof, making it easier for children and families to get the help they need without having to go to multiple places. Some of the services provided by a CAC may include:
Forensic Interviews: Trained professionals conduct interviews with the child in a non-threatening and sensitive manner. These interviews are designed to gather important information while minimizing any additional trauma to the child.
Medical Examinations: Specially trained medical professionals may conduct medical examinations to address any physical injuries or collect evidence related to the abuse.
Mental Health Support: CACs have counselors or therapists who provide emotional support and counseling to children and their families to help them cope with the trauma they have experienced.
Support and Advocacy: CACs offer support and guidance to the child and their family throughout the legal process, ensuring their rights are protected and their needs are met.
Now, it's essential to understand that Children's Advocacy Centers are not part of social services or law enforcement agencies. They operate independently and are neutral entities. Their main focus is to support the child's healing process and assist in the investigation of the abuse, not to enforce the law or remove children from their homes.
When a child discloses abuse or violence, the CAC collaborates with social workers, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals involved in child protection. This multidisciplinary team works together to ensure the child's safety, investigate the case, and bring the perpetrator to justice.
Do you drug test kids?
No, Children's Advocacy Centers do not drug test teenagers.
Do you work with adult sexual assault victims? Who helps/advocates for adult sexual assault victims?
No, Children's Advocacy Centers primarily focus on providing services and support to child victims of violence or abuse who are between the ages of birth through 17 years old. Our protocols and resources are specifically tailored to address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of young individuals.
However, we understand that the impacts of violence and abuse can extend beyond the child victim. As part of our comprehensive approach, we do offer assistance and guidance to the non-offending caregivers of these children. In some instances, these caregivers may feel comfortable disclosing their own childhood trauma to us, seeking understanding and resources.
It's important to recognize that while we are dedicated to serving and protecting children, we acknowledge that adult victims of violence and abuse require specialized support and care tailored to their distinct circumstances. If you or someone you know is an adult survivor of such experiences, we can provide information about organizations and resources specifically designed to assist adult victims on their healing journey.
Are children kept on the premises? Do they live there?
It's important to clarify that Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) are not places where children stay overnight. They are not foster homes or group homes. CACs are daytime facilities specifically designed to provide support and services to children who have experienced abuse or violence.
When a child visits a Children's Advocacy Center, they come during the day for scheduled appointments or interviews. These visits are a couple of hours in length and are focused on helping the child feel safe and comfortable while receiving the assistance they need.
The primary purpose of a CAC is to create a child-friendly and non-threatening environment where professionals from various fields can come together to support the child and their family. These professionals include law enforcement officers, social workers, medical personnel, therapists, and legal advocates.
During their time at the CAC, children participate in a forensic interview, which is a specialized conversation designed to gather information about the alleged abuse while ensuring the child's emotional well-being. They also undergo a medical examination, which is separate and apart from a typical exam at a pediatricians office or an emergency room visit, and receive referrals to counseling or other support services.
Once the scheduled appointment and services are completed, the child and their non-offending family leave the CAC to return home or to another safe environment. The CAC does not provide long-term housing or foster care services
Why CACs Matter
The approach taken by CACs minimizes further trauma to the child by providing all necessary services under one roof. Instead of repeating their painful story to multiple individuals, the child speaks once in a supportive environment. This holistic approach not only supports the child's healing but also enhances the ability to prosecute offenders successfully.
How You Can Help
Children's Advocacy Centers rely on community involvement and support. Here's how you can contribute:
Donate: Your financial contribution can make a significant difference in providing essential services.
Spread Awareness: Share information about CACs within your community to ensure those in need know where to find help.
Children's Advocacy Centers are more than just a place; they are a beacon of hope for children and families in crisis. By providing a coordinated, compassionate response to child abuse, they foster healing and ensure that justice is served.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to your local CAC. Together, we can create a community that protects our most vulnerable and helps them thrive.
