Our mission is to provide a safe environment for the evaluation of alleged child abuse for children 3 to 18 years of age. Through the collaboration of public, private, and community partners, we work to ensure the safety, health, and well being of abused children. We believe our multidisciplinary approach is the best way to serve the needs of children and their families impacted by child abuse. We will create a neutral place where interviews and services for abused children are provided. We will connect children and families traumatized by abuse with needed community resources. We will coordinate multidisciplinary teams for the child’s benefit. We support our staff’s professional development. We will educate our community and partners to prevent child abuse. WHAT WE DO At the Child Advocacy Center, it is our goal to help nurture child abuse victims and provide a safe environment for them to make their voice heard, as we get to the bottom of the case of abuse or neglect. The Child Advocacy Center brings together all parties within the investigation to one child-friendly, neutral location, so that one interview can be conducted with all relevant parties represented. Everyone’s questions are asked through a trained forensic investigator skilled at interviewing children. WHO WE HELP We serve all children 3 to 18 years of age across Rockingham County who are victims of alleged child abuse or neglect, and their families or support system. Child abuse is not something we like to think about, admit is real, or let alone suspect it be happening to our own children. But the reality is that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday. The more educated we are on the facts and how to teach our children about body safety, the better we are armed in the fight against child abuse. At the Child Advocacy Center, we are here to help and support you, turning hurt into hope.