Child Abuse Council - Mississippi Valley Child Protection Center

The Child Abuse Council is a bi-state, regional, non-profit agency with over 39 years experience providing child abuse prevention, education and treatment programs for children and families in the bi-state metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Our goals for every child served are (1) a safe and nurturing home; (2) a secure parent-child relationship; and (3) an environment supporting successful growth and development. The Mississippi Valley Child Protection Center is a part of the Child Abuse Council and is a member of the Iowa Chapter of Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs). These centers were established in an effort to enhance the sensitivity and responsiveness of these systems, thereby minimizing the impact of the trauma, providing vital medical and mental health services for these children and their families, and facilitating the prosecution of perpetrators through coordination of services and implementation of a collaborative approach. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) operate on the fundamental belief that the best interests of the child victim should be protected as the case proceeds through the investigation and prosecution stages and beyond. CACs offer a child-friendly environment where child victims can feel safe talking about it, in the event something has happened to them. Additionally, CACs ensure that the information and therapeutic services necessary to the healing process are readily accessible for these children and their protective family members. Forensic Interviews A forensic interview is a single session, recorded interview designed to elicit a child’s unique information when there are concerns of possible abuse or when the child has witnessed violence against another person. The forensic interview is conducted in a supportive and non-leading manner by a professionally trained individual. Interviews are remotely observed by representatives of the agencies involved in the investigation (such as law enforcement and child protective services). Medical Examinations Medical exams are conducted the the Child Protection Center by a medical professional trained in child maltreatment. These exams are conducted in a manner that is not re-traumatizing to the victim. Family Advocacy The Child Protection Center provides support for children and non-offending caregivers. The family advocate will explain the investigation process and help the caregiver and child to understand what is happening. The family advocate will connect the family to community resources necessary for the child and family. In the neutral setting of the CAC, team members can collaborate on strategies that will aid investigators and prosecutors without causing further harm to the child. This innovative multidisciplinary approach significantly increases the likelihood of a successful outcome in court and long-term healing for the abused child, the most vulnerable of crime victims.