It is with regret that due to COVID-19 restrictions in our state, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Black & White Ball originally scheduled for Saturday, August 29, at Bayou Pointe on the campus of ULM.
WHAT IS THE CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER?
The Children's Advocacy Center of Northeast Louisiana serves children and mentally challenged adult victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, human trafficking, or those who have witnessed violent crimes. At the CAC, trauma survivors are provided with a friendly and supportive environment at which all necessary examinations, interviews, and assessments are conducted by specially-trained forensic interviewers at no expense to the family. This service is vital to the mental health of the victims and to the law enforcement agents tasked with prosecution.
Before the CAC opened its doors, child victims would often be asked to share their traumatic experience multiple times to several different agencies and officials. Not only did this process prove difficult for the victims involved, but multiple interviews can sometimes dilute facts and ultimately hinder the prosecution efforts. Now through the CAC, everyone works together for one common goal of protection and healing.
Before the CAC opened its doors, child victims would often be asked to share their traumatic experience multiple times to several different agencies and officials. Not only did this process prove difficult for the victims involved, but multiple interviews can sometimes dilute facts and ultimately hinder the prosecution efforts. Now through the CAC, everyone works together for one common goal of protection and healing.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
There are a number of ways you can show support for the work being done by The Children’s Advocacy Center through the Black & White Ball fundraiser. Proceeds raised from business and individual sponsorships, event ticket sales, and other prize winning opportunities, all help to ensure that the services offered by the CAC remain free and available to the victims and families. Through your contributions, the CAC is able to maintain their child-friendly site specially suited for interviews and exams, as well as keep staff trained on the best practices for child forensic interviews and advocacy.
Last year, the CAC was excited to welcome their very own professionally trained service dog, Kasha, to the team! Kasha’s role is to provide comfort and support to the children throughout the interview and examination process. She is a calming presence for a child who may be feeling anxious, and helps him or her to feel secure during a stressful time. We are continually grateful for the generosity of the community each year that makes all this possible!
Last year, the CAC was excited to welcome their very own professionally trained service dog, Kasha, to the team! Kasha’s role is to provide comfort and support to the children throughout the interview and examination process. She is a calming presence for a child who may be feeling anxious, and helps him or her to feel secure during a stressful time. We are continually grateful for the generosity of the community each year that makes all this possible!
For any questions about how you can get involved with 2020 Black & White Ball, contact
The Center for Children and Families at (318) 398-0945.
