CAC's mission is to serve as the leading resource to empower and heal children and families who have experienced abuse and to prevent violence against children. From the Forensic Interview to the last therapy session, CAC provides comprehensive services to ensure that our clients are building resiliency in order to live healthier lives.
Forensic & Advocacy Services (FAS)
Our extensively trained FAS team supports a child and family through the legal process of the abuse investigation. We coordinate with local law enforcement, the State’s Attorney's Office and DCFS to conduct Forensic Interviews that limit additional trauma for the child and collect all necessary information to proceed with the case. CAC Advocates support families and connect them to medical, mental health and other community services.
Family Support Services (FSS)
Our highly trained trauma therapists meet families during their highest level of crisis. We connect with them through compassion and empathy. Our team creates a comprehensive and individualized plan for each family member to help put the pieces of their life back together.
Safe from the Start (SFTS)
Our SFTS program is in our service area. We offer free, trauma-informed therapy for children birth to age 5 who have experienced violence in their households. These children are often overlooked, but we make their care a priority. Our team helps the most vulnerable population by listening to them, believing them and helping them process trauma.
July 1, 2022-June 30, 2023
1,798
Clients in FY23
5,875
Hours of service in FY 23
38
Communities served
34
Years of service
SFTS Client
"My child's self-esteem has grown because of the services at Safe from the Start. Thank you!"
FAS Client
"Thank you! You made us feel supported and more safe and cared about in this frightening world."
FSS Client
"Thank you for being a safe place for my daughter and I to share our experiences."
Contact Us
CAC is here to help. Call, email or fill out
the contact form below or inquiries.
To report child abuse call: (800) 252-2873
Hoffman Estates
640 Illinois Blvd
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Arlington Heights
657 E Golf Road
Suite 310
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Skokie
9933 Lawler Ave
Suite 207
Skokie, IL 60077
Childrenʼs Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization under the regulations of Internal Revenue Services.
Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.
CAC does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers, and subcontractors. CAC is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
If you feel you have been discriminated against, complaints must be made in writing and sent to:
Melanie Pignotti, LCPC
Chief Executive Director of Children’s Advocacy Center of North & Northwest Cook County
Address: 640 Illinois Blvd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Email: mpignotti@cachelps.org