Child Abuse Resource Center

The First Witness Child Abuse Resource Center opened in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1993. The Center was the initiative of a collaboration of public and private agencies responsible for the investigation, assessment, prosecution and medical intervention of children who report abuse. Prior to the First Witness project, children who reported abuse were likely to be interviewed 4-5 times during the course of investigation assessment. Those involved with the process saw the need for change.

First Witness is a charter member of the National Children's Alliance. Today, the Center's primary focus is to facilitate forensic interviews and provide support services for children.

The forensic interview process has grown to be recognized internationally. Each person trained in the process is making his or her community a safe place for children to grow and thrive.

Our Vision

Our vision is of a society that supports children and ends child abuse.

Our Mission

The mission of First Witness Child Abuse Resource Center is to strengthen our community's response to child abuse. We provide support for the investigation and assessment of child abuse cases, in addition to providing nationally recognized educational training for professionals.

We are making our community a safe place for children to grow and thrive.

Help us achieve our commitment to children

Dear Friends,

As we reflect on 2008, we are encouraged: Encouraged in knowing many victimized children who have sought us for help have been led out of darkness and have been given the opportunity for a healthy new life; encouraged by your continued nourishment to the mission and programs of First Witness; encouraged as we explore new avenues to enhance our programs and to educate our community in providing a safe and healthy environment for children to grow and thrive.

We are a non-profit community agency blessed with support from numerous partners within key community organizations with whom we network, who share our commitment to children, and who embrace the team approach we foster to provide vitally needed services to abused children and their families. Thank you for all you have done to help us. Because of your support, First Witness is able to provide the following vital services to our community.

A friendly place for children to talk about their safety
Crisis counseling
Support groups
Medical care referral
Mental health referral
Training for professionals who work with children
Community education and support

First Witness is one of nearly seven hundred Child Advocacy Centers nationwide with whom we network to learn and grow. As best practices change, we change. What remains constant is our commitment to children.

Thank YOU, friends, for your belief and investment in First Witness. It is this vital community support which provides the foundation, building blocks, and tools which have shaped a steadfast and dedicated community organization working for our children and ultimately our future!

Dana
Dana Wahlberg
Board Chair

Susan
Susan Ginder
Executive Director

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