When a child enters the child welfare system through a Child in Need of Care (CINC) case, it often means they have experienced abuse, neglect, or another form of trauma. These cases can be complex and overwhelming—not only for the child, but for the families and professionals working to ensure their safety. This is where a Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) can play a vital role.
The Children’s Advocacy Center is designed to provide a coordinated, child-focused response during some of the most difficult moments in a child’s life. Rather than requiring children to navigate multiple systems and repeat their experiences, the CAC brings together a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of professionals in one safe, supportive environment. This team includes law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical providers, mental health professionals, and victim advocates.
A Child-Centered Approach
At the heart of the CAC model is a commitment to minimizing trauma. Specially trained forensic interviewers talk with children in a developmentally appropriate, non-leading way, allowing them to share their experiences in a setting designed to feel safe and comfortable. These interviews are observed by MDT members, reducing the need for children to tell their story multiple times.
Supporting CINC Cases from the Start
Prior to and during the course of Child in Need of Care cases, timely and accurate information is critical. The CAC supports these cases by:
- Conducting forensic interviews that inform investigations and court proceedings
- Coordinating communication among MDT partners
- Providing access to medical evaluations and trauma therapy
- Offering advocacy services to help families navigate the system
This coordinated approach ensures that everyone involved in an investigation is working from the same information, leading to more informed decisions and better outcomes for children.
Local Impact: CAC of Douglas County
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Douglas County opened on February 1, 2021, and has since supported more than 800 individuals, including children and their caregivers. During its first five years, the organization experienced a 152% increase in its operating budget, reflecting significant growth and increased community need. Over the past year, staff size has tripled, further strengthening the Center’s capacity to serve children and families and respond to rising demand.
As the need has grown, so has the CAC’s capacity to respond. A key milestone in this expansion has been the development of a trauma-focused therapy program, providing children with access to specialized mental health services in a safe, familiar environment. By offering therapy on-site, the CAC reduces barriers to care and helps children begin the healing process sooner.
Healing Through Therapy and Advocacy
Beyond the initial investigation, the CAC continues to support children and their families on the path to healing. Trauma-focused mental health services help children process their experiences and build resilience. Family advocates provide guidance, connect families to resources, and offer ongoing support throughout the life of the case.
Stronger Outcomes Through Collaboration
The CAC model improves outcomes by fostering collaboration and communication across systems. When professionals work together in a structured and consistent way, cases move more efficiently, children receive services sooner, and families feel more supported.
Most importantly, children are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect—ensuring their voices are heard while prioritizing their safety and well-being.
Get Involved: Be Part of the Impact
Supporting children takes a community—and there are meaningful ways for you to be part of that impact.
Visit cacdouglas.org to learn more about how you can support local children through the CAC’s Amazon Wish List, providing comfort items and essentials for kids and families when they need it most.
On April 10th, show your support by participating in Douglas County Wear Blue Day, helping raise awareness for child abuse prevention and standing in solidarity with children and families.
Join us for Quiz for a Cause-Trivia Night on April 20th in Lawrence, Kansas—a fun and engaging evening that directly supports services for children in our community.
Each year, more than 4,500 children walk through the doors of a Kansas CAC. To find the Children’s Advocacy Center in your area, visit kscac.org.
Together, we can ensure every child in Douglas County—and across Kansas—has the opportunity for a safe, supported, and hopeful future.
