First Witness Child Advocacy Center
Strengthening Our Community's Response to Child AbuseFor over 30 years, First Witness Child Advocacy Center (CAC) has supported children, adolescents, vulnerable adults, and families, amplified survivors’ voices, and ensured they receive the care they deserve. Founded in 1991 by and for our community, we remain a leader in child abuse response advocacy, prevention, and training.
Understand Child Abuse
Child abuse affects children in all socioeconomic levels, races, religions, and cultures. Learn the signs of abuse and how to respond and report when abuse is suspected.
If You Suspect Child Abuse
If you are concerned that a child is a victim of abuse, you may be unsure of what to do or how to respond. No matter what your role is, you have the power to make a positive difference in that child’s life.
Prevent Child Abuse
Child abuse prevention training, services, and resources strengthen our community’s commitment to safe relationships and environments for all children.
Upcoming Trainings
Historically, the presence of sexual behaviors in children was societally met with judgment, fear, and misunderstanding. Realistically, sexual play is common for children, with 66%-88%… Learn More
This is a foundational training that meets all essential training components in the 2023 National Children’s Alliance (NCA) Standard of Victim Advocacy and has… Learn More
The ChildFirst® Forensic Interview Protocol brings the field into the classroom, enhancing the education of front-line child abuse response professionals. This training is designed… Learn More
What We Do
Forensic Interviewing
First Witness CAC provides neutral, fact-finding interviews for children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults who may have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, witnessed violence, or have been otherwise victimized.
Advocacy
All children and families served by First Witness CAC receive support and family advocacy services as part of the response to allegations of child abuse.
Facilitating a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT)
Children and families have the best outcomes when professionals work together and share their expertise.
Medical Exams
All children who are suspected victims of child abuse and served by First Witness CAC are entitled to a medical exam conducted by a specialized medical provider.
Mental Health
Access to specialized mental health services is critical for abused children and their families to move forward in the healing process.
Prevention
Each of us has a role in the safety and support of children that can help keep them safe from abuse.
Latest News
Importance of a Cultural and Spiritual Room in an Advocacy Center
Importance of healing The core of a cultural and spiritual room is all about helping an individual heal in whatever way that may… Read More