Child abuse is a dark reality that often thrives in silence, but the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Rutherford and Cannon Counties has spent 26 years bringing these stories into the light and providing a sanctuary for healing. In this conversation, Director Sharon DeBoer and Karista Colwell join Bryan Barrett to detail the unique history of the CAC, which was born from a desperate need to protect children from being re-traumatized during the investigation process. By uniting law enforcement, the District Attorney’s office, and Department of Children’s Services under one roof, the CAC ensures that the child's well-being remains the central focus of every intervention.
As the population of Rutherford County continues to surge, the demand for these critical services has grown from 200 cases in their first year to over 3,000 today. The team discusses the upcoming Hometown Heroes Walk for Children and the Cannon Runs for Children 5K, vital community events that fund the crisis intervention and therapy services provided at no cost to families. This episode is a powerful look at how local leadership and community support create a safety net for the most vulnerable among us.
Key Takeaways
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The Power of Collaboration: Learn how the "Multidisciplinary Team" approach prevents children from having to retell their trauma to multiple agencies.
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26 Years of Impact: Sharon DeBoer reflects on the CAC's growth since its founding in the late 90s with the support of community leaders like Andrea Conte and Bill Whitesell.
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Upcoming Events: Get the details on April's Child Abuse Prevention Month events, including the Hometown Heroes Walk and Cannon County 5K.
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A Growing Need: Understanding how the CAC is adapting its space and staff to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding Middle Tennessee population.
