What is a Child Advocacy Center (CAC)?

A CAC is a child-focused, collaborative through which a response to child abuse is coordinated. The CAC model brings together professionals and agencies needed to offer comprehensive services to victims and their families: law enforcement, child protective services, medical professionals, mental health, victim advocacy, and prosecution. The community approach prevents further victimization and trauma for victims while promoting efficacy in investigation, treatment and prosecution of child abuse. CACs are located throughout the United States and reflect local community’s demographics and needs.

Overview of the Child’s Experience:

At the root of all CACs is the child. CFAC offers children and their families the protection, hope, and courage to begin their recovery. Once a case is open for investigation, a coordinated forensic interview is conducted at CFAC by trained, experienced interviewers. Referrals for collateral services (therapy, medical examination, support group) are made to the victim and non-offending family members. If the investigation is accepted for prosecution, the victim and family are guided through the court process by a victim advocate.