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First Witness Child Advocacy Center

Strengthening Our Community's Response to Child Abuse

For over 30 years, First Witness has supported children, adolescents, vulnerable adults and families, amplified survivors’ voices, and ensured they receive the care they deserve. Founded in 1991 by and for our community, we remain a leader in child abuse response, advocacy, prevention, and training.

Understand Child Abuse

Child abuse affects children in all socioeconomic levels, races, religions, and cultures. Learn the signs of abuse and how to respond and report when abuse is suspected.

If You Suspect Child Abuse

If you are concerned that a child is a victim of abuse, you may be unsure of what to do or how to respond. No matter what your role is, you have the power to make a positive difference in that child’s life.

Prevent Child Abuse

Child abuse prevention training, services, and resources strengthen our community’s commitment to safe relationships and environments for all children.

Upcoming Trainings

Prevention

This training is offered to adults in youth-serving agencies, churches, sports leagues, and beyond. Participants learn how to recognize, respond to, and report child… Learn More

August 12, 2025 12-1:30pm CT

Format: Online

Register

MDT Development

This session will review the research behind the characteristics and workplace environments of the victim-serving organizations to increase general understanding of the effects these characteristics… Learn More

August 21, 2025 10am-11:30am CST

Format: Online

Register

Advocacy

This training meets all essential training components in the 2023 National Children’s Alliance (NCA) Standard of Victim Advocacy and has been approved by the… Learn More

August 25, 27, & 29, 2025

Format: Online

Register

What We Do

Forensic Interviewing

First Witness CAC provides neutral, fact-finding interviews for children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults who may have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, witnessed violence, or have been otherwise victimized.

Advocacy

All children and families served by First Witness CAC receive support and family advocacy services as part of the response to allegations of child abuse.

Facilitating a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT)

Children and families have the best outcomes when professionals work together and share their expertise.

Medical Exams

All children who are suspected victims of child abuse and served by First Witness CAC are entitled to a medical exam conducted by a specialized medical provider.

Mental Health

Access to specialized mental health services is critical for abused children and their families to move forward in the healing process.

Prevention

Each of us has a role in the safety and support of children that can help keep them safe from abuse.

Latest News

When Worry Wears a Mask: Understanding Anxiety, Trauma, and Challenging Behaviors in Children

  Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges affecting young people today. While many children worry about typical things like homework… Read More

By Kimber Herubin 

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