Breakdown of Services: Victim and Family Advocacy
Victim and Family Advocacy at the Children’s Advocacy Center is a dedicated support system designed to walk alongside families from the moment of a crisis through the long journey of healing and justice. The primary role of an advocate is to serve as a bridge between the family and the complex investigative and legal systems, ensuring that no one has to navigate these challenges alone. This partnership begins at the very first meeting; while the child prepares for their forensic interview, the advocate meets with the family to handle necessary paperwork, explain the specific services being provided that day, and provide a tour of the center to help lower the anxiety often associated with such a difficult day.
During the actual forensic interview, the advocate spends quality time with the non-offending caregiver to gather a comprehensive history of the child and the family situation. This is a critical period for assessment, as the advocate works to identify immediate needs, whether they are physical, emotional, or logistical, and begins tailoring a support plan. Once the interview concludes, the advocate ensures the family doesn’t leave empty-handed, providing essential documentation such as school or work excuses, along with initial referrals to specialized medical or mental health professionals.
The support provided by an advocate is not a one-time event but a long-term commitment. Within a few days of the initial visit, the advocate will reach out for a follow-up contact to check on the family’s well-being and assess how the child is processing the situation. This relationship continues through scheduled check-ins—ideally at the two-week, three-month, six-month, and one-year marks. These milestones allow the advocate to monitor the physical, mental, and emotional health of the child and family, ensuring that all needs are being met and that referrals are working effectively. Even after the one-year mark, the advocate remains a permanent resource; the family is encouraged to reach out at any time for support, regardless of how much time has passed.
In addition to emotional and resource support, the advocate follows the family through every step of the judicial system. They ensure the family is prepared for court proceedings, assist in filling out victim compensation paperwork, and help the child prepare for the experience of testifying. While advocates never tell a child what to say, they provide “comfortability” tours of the courtroom so the child can learn the layout and understand the roles of the people they will see. At the request of the family, an advocate can attend hearings for support, often bringing along a child’s favorite candy or drinks… small gestures of comfort that make a daunting environment feel a little more like home.
If you would like more information on the Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center located in Jasper, Alabama please visit walkercountycac.org or contact us at 205-387-8324. We would love to provide you with additional information or even give you a tour of our facility.
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Advocate Contact: Jade Kennedy; jade.wccac@gmail.com; 205.387.8324 Ext. 301