Why Invest in CACs?

CACs prevent abuse and keep children safe. Last year, CACs provided child sexual abuse prevention education to more than 500,000 individuals, many in school settings.

CACs save money. Their service delivery model saves court, child protection, and investigative dollars averaging $1,000 per child abuse case compared to non-CAC communities.

CACs are efficient. Providing significantly higher rates of coordinated investigations; 81 % of investigations in CACs were coordinated between law enforcement and child protective services, compared with 52% in comparison communities.

CACs hold offenders accountable. Increased usage of CACs and multidisciplinary teams has resulted in increased successful prosecutions of child abuse perpetrators. One study shows an average 94% conviction rate for CAC cases carried forward.

CACs help child victims heal. Child victims of sexual abuse who receive services at CACs are four times more likely to receive forensic medical exams7 and increased referrals for mental health treatment8 than children served by non-CAC communities.

CACs are effective. Research demonstrates caregivers in CAC cases are more satisfied with the investigation than those from non-CAC comparison sites. 97% of parents would tell others to seek help at the CAC.

CACs are committed to research-supported practice. Last year, National Children’s Alliance and its CAC members provided training to 46,608 child abuse professionals, ensuring sound investigations and compassionate treatment of victims nationwide.

CACs are accountable. Accreditation of CACs through National Children’s Alliance assures the highest standard of care is provided to victims.

“If we don’t stand up for children,
then we don’t stand for much.”

– Marian Wright Edelman

Source: National Children’s Alliance, www.nationalchildrensalliance.org