Gio's room was created as a space just for teens, allowing them to have their own place to unwind after their forensic interview. With a comfortable couch, TV, and sensory activities, teens are able to re-center themselves by engaging in mindfulness activities to round out their visit with us. Gio's Room Gio's Room Gio's room was created as a space just for teens, allowing them to have their own place to unwind after their forensic interview. With a comfortable couch, TV, and sensory activities, teens are able to re-center themselves by engaging in mindfulness activities to round out their visit with us. View Resources for Kids & Teens Mindfulness Tip Mindfulness Activities Packet Download our Mindfulness activities can help teens and children reduce stress and anxiety, manage their emotions, and pay attention to the present.

These frequently asked questions help parents and caregivers prepare themselves, their children, and their family for a CACFC appointment. FAQs Frequently Asked Questions For Parents & Caregivers What do I tell my child about the CACFC appointment? Talking to your child about what to expect is very important. You may tell them that they will be meeting with someone who talks to many children and that it is ok to tell their story. Assure your child that they are not in trouble and you will be nearby during the entire process. They may also meet with a nurse for a head to toe checkup. Will I be able to watch the interview? Only the professionals involved in your child’s investigation will be able to view the interview, however you will have the opportunity to meet with the team to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Should I talk with my child about what happened? It is best not to question your child prior to the interview. If your child wants to talk with you be supportive, listen attentively and try to avoid asking questions. Be sure to reassure your child that you are there for them and that they are safe. Will I be able to bring a friend or family member to wait with me? You are more than welcome to bring a support person with you. You should NOT bring the person being accused of the abuse even if they are a family member. The family advocate will be available to provide support and discuss additional resources during your visit. What is the advantage of having my child interviewed at the Children's Advocacy Center? Your child is our first priority. The CACFC provides a safe place with a comfortable and child friendly atmosphere. The forensic interview and multidisciplinary investigative team approach is designed to lessen the trauma your child may experience by limiting the number of times that they are asked to share their story. Services for your child and family are coordinated and you will have the opportunity to meet with and ask questions of the professionals involved in your child's case.

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We provide a child-focused, compassionate, and collaborative approach to supporting children and families impacted by suspected child abuse. Our Services What We Do At the Children’s Advocacy Center of Franklin County (CACFC), we provide a child-focused, compassionate, and collaborative approach to supporting children and families impacted by suspected child abuse. Our team works closely with a Multidisciplinary Investigative Team (MDIT) to ensure that every child receives comprehensive care in a safe and supportive environment. Interview & Evaluation Forensic Interviews A forensic interview is a developmentally sensitive, fact-gathering conversation designed to help children share their experiences in a safe and supportive setting. Conducted by trained, neutral professionals, these interviews follow evidence-based practices and are observed remotely by law enforcement and child welfare investigators to reduce the need for repeated questioning. This process helps minimize trauma for the child while ensuring that accurate information is gathered for investigations. Forensic Medical Exams Forensic medical exams are thorough, head-to-toe physical evaluations conducted by certified pediatric forensic nurses (SANE-P) or other qualified medical providers. Using specialized equipment, providers can document findings when necessary. While most exams do not reveal physical evidence of abuse, they play an essential role in reassuring children and caregivers about the child’s health and well-being. These exams also help address concerns, provide education, and dispel misconceptions children or families may have about their bodies. Treatment & Intervention Our MDIT includes medical providers, mental health professionals, forensic interviewers, family advocates, law enforcement, children and youth services, and the District Attorney’s Office. Together, we provide coordinated services that prioritize the child’s needs while reducing trauma and supporting the family through the healing process. CACFC leads the services for: Family Advocacy Families are connected with advocates who guide them through the investigative and healing process, offering emotional support, information, and referrals to community resources. Mental Health Support Children and caregivers are connected with specialized trauma-focused therapy and counseling services to promote healing and resilience. Training Prevention Our staff provides community-based education and training on recognizing, responding to, and preventing child abuse. These programs help professionals, parents, caregivers, and community members build knowledge and awareness, with the goal of keeping children safe. Training covers topics such as signs of abuse, how to respond to a disclosure, and strategies for prevention and intervention. >> View Resources & Education Tools for Schools Our Education and Training Programs: Child Safety Matters MBF Child Safety Matters® is a comprehensive, evidence-based prevention education program for elementary school students in grades K-5. The program teaches students and adults how to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to the four types of child abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, neglect), bullying, cyberbullying, and digital dangers. CAC 101 An overview of Children's Advocacy of Franklin County as a community resource. Learn what a child can expect when coming to CACFC, what services we provide, and how our agency can be a resource to your organization. Teen Safety Matters MBF Teen Safety Matters® is a comprehensive, evidence-informed prevention education program for middle school students in grades 6-8 and high-school students in grades 9-12. The program educates and empowers teens and all relevant adults with information and strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to bullying, cyberbullying, all types of abuse, relationship abuse, digital dangers, exploitation, and human trafficking. Stewards of Children Stewards of Children by Darkness to Light is a two-hour training designed to educate adults about how to recognize, prevent, and react responsibility to the reality of child sexual abuse, emphasizing child safety as every adult’s responsibility. Mental Health Matters MBF Mental Health Matters is a supplemental lesson designed to accompany the MBF Child Safety Matters® and MBF Teen Safety Matters® programs. This lesson focuses on emotional health, mental health, and substance abuse, helping students understand the importance of caring for their mental well-being. Tech Smart Tech Smart builds awareness of the risk of Internet based technology and offers adult resources for prevention. The training is designed to educate parents and professionals that work with children about technology risks to children including predators, cyber bullying, sexting and Internet-based social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. This training can be customized to suit your group and is available in sessions lasting from one to three hours. VIEW THE CACFC PREVENTION EDUCATION GUIDE Want CACFC to lead an education/training program for you? Interested in learning more? Contact us to get started.