By Karly Frederick, Rice County Community Foundation
RICE COUNTY, Kan. — The Rice County Community Foundation is thrilled to announce a game-changing grant of $40,000 to uplift the newly formed Rice County Child Advocacy Center. This support underscores our dedication to crucial community resources, especially for children affected by abuse or trauma.
Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) are pivotal, recognized for aiding victims of child abuse crimes and supporting professionals in justice, victim services, and treatment. They provide vital services like forensic interviews, advocacy, and specialized medical care, fostering a team approach.
Each CAC serves with a multidisciplinary team—prosecutors, law enforcement, child protection, advocates, therapists, and medical providers—ensuring seamless delivery of crucial victim services. This collaboration tailors plans for each victim’s needs, addressing systemic issues for better outcomes.
Maintaining care continuity requires a united effort, reducing trauma and employing better reasoning in investigating abuse cases. Ongoing training for the team and staff is essential for growth and effective operation.
CACs continuously evolve, now addressing various abuse forms beyond the traditional sexual abuse cases. They extend support to neglect, violence exposure, drug endangerment, and more, aiding children facing multiple abuses.
Forensic interviews, victim advocacy, medical evaluations, and mental health care are integral parts of the CAC model, focusing on safety, healing, and preventing re-trauma for children and families.
Special thanks to Kasey Dalke, Executive Director of Children’s Advocacy Centers of Kansas, for invaluable support in establishing the Rice County CAC.
