20 Years of Hope.  Those four little words add up to more than you would first think – those words describe the emotion behind countless stories of heartbreak, compassion, dedication and the providing of a safe haven for children who have been abused.

Lori Harris, Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Cherokee County:

Ms Harris recently paid a visit to the WEIS Radio studios to discuss the services provided in regard to helping children through the difficult process which includes providing safe, child friendly environments for each interview to be conducted in.  She pointed out that the Child Advocacy Center has a therapist on-site for follow-up treatment after the interview and will provide counseling services for the victim for as long as necessary.

Ms Harris also stressed that should a child choose to confide in you – the way you approach the situation is very important:

The Children’s Advocacy Center works with case workers along with a supervisor from the Department of Human Resources (DHR) local physicians and local law enforcement officers and investigators in addition to the District Attorney’s Office.

To hear that interview in its entirety simply click on the link below:

April is Child Abuse Awareness Month.    

For additional information visit the Children’s Advocacy Center website http://www.cherokeecountycac.org

The Children’s Advocacy Center provides:

• Forensic Interviewing:

The Child Advocacy Center offers safe, neutral, child-friendly environment for children who are suspected victims of child abuse to be interviewed. 

• Child Therapy:

The Child Advocacy Center has a therapist on site for follow-up treatment after the interview takes place. The therapist will provide counseling services for the victim as long as necessary. 

• Forensic Evaluations:

This service is provided for the Department of Human Resources as well as the District Attorney’s office. This is an extended forensic interview taking place once a week from six to ten weeks. A licensed child therapist who has completed the forensic assessment training curriculum conducts the forensic assessment. It is a structured program that has been nationally recognized.

• Family Advocacy:

Support is offered to the non-offending caregivers in indicated child abuse cases. The family advocate serves as a liaison for the family and all involved investigating agencies. The family advocate also provides assistance in helping the family to utilize community resources. This program is limited to the non-offending caregivers who are supportive of the child victim.

• Team Reviews:

Once a month, The Children’s Advocacy Center Case Review Team meets at the Children’s Advocacy Center here in Cherokee County to discuss the status of all ongoing child abuse cases. Members include: staff here at the CAC, case workers from the Department of Human Resources, a supervisor from DHR, the District Attorney’s office, local law enforcement officers and investigators, and a local physician. 

Report Abuse:

If you suspect a child is being neglected or abused, please call the phone numbers listed below.

• Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm
  • Cherokee County Department of Human Resources at (256) 927-1440

• After Hours and Weekends
  • Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office at (256) 927-3365

• If Emergency 
  •  9-1-1