In honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we would like to share more about Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center, one of our Partner Agencies, who does great work in the area of raising awareness and preventing child abuse.

United Way currently invests in their: Forensic Interviews

Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center serves children and vulnerable adults suspected to be victims or witnesses of crimes. Predominantly, this is children ages three to seventeen, affected by abuse and neglect. Allegations include physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, drug endangerment, and witness to violence.

This initiative is built on principles of sustainability and trauma-informed collaboration for families of Ozaukee, Sheboygan, Manitowoc and Washington counties.

Sheboygan county completes more child abuse investigations than Washington and Ozaukee counties combined, it is apparent that the needs of Sheboygan County children far surpass those of their neighbors.

What is a forensic interview?

A forensic interview is a recorded interview with someone who is suspected to be a victim or witness to a crime.

What is the purpose of a forensic interview?

There are two simultaneous goals to a forensic interview. The first and most important is to minimize any additional trauma to your child. Forensic interviews are meant to minimize the number of interviews your child must have and collect information in a way that is sensitive to your child’s developmental level, current emotional state, and any additional important family dynamics. The second goal is to gather as much legally defensible information as possible. This is accomplished through creating an environment that is safe, neutral, and family-friendly.

What can I expect when I bring a child is interviewed?

Members of the investigative team will be on hand to answer your questions and explain the process.

What should I tell one tell a child about his/her upcoming interview?

Typically, it is recommended that you share very little about the process, other than to tell them that they “will be talking to a nice lady” or “safe person.” However, only you know your child best, so please use your judgement in deciding how much or little to share with your child.

For more news from Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center, follow them on Facebook @LakeshoreCAC.  

Thank you, Amanda and the Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center team for all the work you do for our community!

 

Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center

Mission: To be a trauma-informed environment where partners collaboratively investigate child abuse, families receive support and advocacy, and most importantly, the child’s words are always heard.

Vision: A community partnership that promotes resiliency by providing every child and family with access to a comprehensive, trauma-informed response to child abuse.

Contact Information:
NEW! Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center recently opened a satellite location at the Sheboygan Police Department.

Main Office:

134 S. Foster Drive, Saukville, WI 53080

262-358-9080 | lakeshorecac@gmail.com

How to Report Abuse

To report suspected child abuse, contact your local child welfare department or police department. If you believe a child is in imminent danger, call 9-1-1.

• Ozaukee County Child Protective Services:  Call 262-284-8200
• Sheboygan County Child Protective Services:  Call 920-459-6418
• Washington County Child Protective Services:  Call 262-335-4888

 

To learn more, visit their website: lakeshorecac.org