Peoria – On October 24, 2013, the Peoria County Children’s Advocacy Center received notification that it has been awarded accreditation by the National Children’s Alliance following an extensive application and site review process. As the accrediting agency for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the country, National Children’s Alliance awards various levels of membership to centers responding to allegations of child abuse in ways that are effective, efficient, and child-focused. Accreditation is the highest level of membership with National Children’s Alliance and denotes excellence in providing a coordinated response to child abuse allegations.

National Children’s Alliance awards Accredited Membership based on a CAC’s compliance with ten national standards of accreditation to ensure effective, efficient, and consistent delivery of services to child abuse victims. Accredited CACs must utilize an effective multi-disciplinary team comprised of law enforcement, DCFS, mental health therapists, medical specialists, prosecution, and victim advocacy to work collaboratively in child abuse investigation, prosecution, and treatment. The National Children’s Alliance also evaluates CACs based on standards regarding victim support and advocacy, forensic interviewing, medical evaluation, therapeutic intervention, cultural competency, and child-focused setting.

The Peoria County Children’s Advocacy Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive, coordinated, and compassionate services to victims of child abuse. To contact the Peoria County Children’s Advocacy Center, call (309) 669-2900.