CAC Invites You To A 25th Birthday Celebration

On Friday, August 15, 2014 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. supporters of Children’s Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County (CAC) are invited to join agency representatives and dignitaries to celebrate the agency’s 25 years of service to children and families affected by sexual abuse, severe physical abuse or domestic violence. The celebration will take place at CAC’s headquarters at 640 Illinois Boulevard. Mayor Bill McLeod will also read a proclamation declaring August as CAC Month in the Village of Hoffman Estates.  

Founded in 1989, the Hanover Township Mental Health Board “passed the torch” to CAC’s first Board of Directors who worked out an agreement in 1991 with former Village of Hoffman Estates Mayor, Mike O’Malley to lease the original Village Hall for $1 per year. Since then CAC has grown to support more than 650 children per year in 38 north and northwest suburban communities. Three satellite offices are located in Streamwood, Northbrook and Evanston.

“CAC’s founding members were dedicated to addressing child abuse in this area and finding a better way to support children and families affected by it. Their initial commitment set CAC up for the success it is today,” says Mark Parr, CAC’s Executive Director. 

The mission behind CAC? To provide a place for children to heal from abuse. 

According to Bonnie Fries, CAC’s Assistant Director, “CAC works with representatives from DCFS, law enforcement and states attorney’s offices to streamline efforts and minimize trauma for children who have experienced abuse. By giving children the opportunity to tell their story one time, in a safe environment, we can help move them through the healing process much more quickly.” 

One of 800 such Centers throughout the US and in 10 countries, CAC has 15 board members, 17 staff members and a newly formed leadership advisory board. All services, including forensic interview services, professional counseling, court advocacy and support groups for survivors and non-offending caregivers are offered free of charge. 

For more information or to RSVP for CAC’s birthday celebration visit www.cachelps.org.