Children's Advocacy Centers of Washington

Overview

Children's Advocacy Centers of Washington (CACW) is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting the development, growth, and sustainability of Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) across Washington state. The mission of CACW is to ensure that every child has access to trauma-informed and evidence-based services through these centers, promoting a collaborative response to child abuse.

Vision

The organization envisions a future where every child in Washington can access local CAC services, which are designed to reduce trauma and support the healing process for children and families affected by abuse.

Services and Model

CACs operate under a multidisciplinary team (MDT) model, bringing together professionals such as medical providers, law enforcement, mental health experts, prosecutors, child protective services, and victim advocates. This coordinated approach ensures that children are interviewed in a safe environment by trained interviewers to help gather information without retraumatizing them. Services offered by CACs include therapy, medical exams, courtroom preparation, case management, and victim advocacy.

Standards and Accreditation

All CACs accredited by the National Children's Alliance must adhere to specific standards to ensure they provide consistent, evidence-based interventions that support the healing of children. These standards act as a roadmap for delivering trauma-informed, culturally appropriate services.

Victim Advocate Roundtable

CACW hosts a Victim Advocate Roundtable, which provides a platform for victim advocates working with CACs and MDTs in Washington state to network and share best practices. This event supports the collaboration and professional development of advocates.

Advocacy and Community Impact

By supporting the work of CACs across Washington, CACW aims to promote a collaborative response to child abuse, reach all victims, and reduce trauma. The organization plays a crucial role in advocating for the needs of children and families affected by abuse, ensuring they have access to trained professionals and supportive services.

Tax Identification Number

Children's Advocacy Centers of Washington has a tax identification number (EIN) of 208597550.

[1] https://cacwa.org/cac-model-overview/ [2] https://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/cac-model/ [3] https://cacwa.org [4] https://cacnc.org/locations/ [5] https://www.unh.edu/ccrc/resource-topic/multi-site-evaluation-childrens-advocacy-centers-cacs