Highlighting the Children’s Advocacy Center
In October 2000, the Children’s Advocacy Center for the 31st Judicial District (CAC) was founded by a local group of concerned individuals dedicated to helping victims of child abuse become children again. The agency was established to aid in the prevention, intervention and investigation of allegations of severe child maltreatment for children in Warren and Van Buren counties and to help in recovery following such traumatic events.
Since the group’s inception, well-trained personnel are dedicated to working with children reported as suspected victims of child sexual abuse, severe physical abuse or neglect, exposure to drugs or witnesses to domestic violence. A full scope of needed services is provided: child forensic interviews, victim-family advocacy, crisis intervention, trauma counseling, resource assistance, education and outreach. All direct services are offered free to families assisted by CAC. Children’s Advocacy Center for the 31st Judicial District is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that receives all of its funding through grants, corporate contributions and the generosity of community partners and benefactors.
Because the center relies on fundraising and community support, CAC decided to hold an art contest in Van Buren County schools so that the image chosen to appear on the annual T-shirt, which is sold throughout the year as a fundraiser for the center, would be created by a child in CAC’s jurisdiction. Of the three top submissions, Tristian Argo’s boldly colored image and powerful statement was named the winner. Thanks to generous donors, winners received cash prizes as well as iPads. Next year, the center plans to extend the contest to Warren County schools as well.
If you wish to purchase a shirt for $13 or otherwise donate to the Child Advocacy Center, please contact Executive Director Sarah Loud at [email protected] or 931-507-2386.
From left are art teacher Earl Delong, second-place winner Brianna Kalista-Cooney, first-place winner Tristian Argo, and third-place winner Aaron Tyler.
