By Bianca Gonzalez, LCPC, CATP, Supervisor - Safe from the Start As the school year ends and summer routines begin, many clients experience a noticeable shift in mood, stress levels, and daily structure. For children, teens, parents, and even adults receiving social services or mental health support, summer can bring both relief and new challenges. This season offers an important opportunity to help clients prepare proactively rather than reactively. Why Summer Transitions Ma

Child sexual abuse remains one of the most pervasive threats to children’s safety, and while it can impact any child, some face significantly greater vulnerability. National data show that at least one in four girls and one in 20 boys experience child sexual abuse, though the true numbers are likely higher due to underreporting. Abuse crosses every demographic line, yet certain groups of children face elevated risks because of the environment and pressures surrounding their l

The stories we hear each day make one thing unmistakably clear: mental health is woven into every step a child takes toward healing. Mental Health Awareness Month speaks directly to the heart of our work and to the courage of the children we serve.

CAC values teamwork, particularly with long-time community partners, which is why the 2026 Mark Parr Champion for Children award honoree is noteworthy. Endeavor Health Northwest Community Hospital has been a vital community partner for 17 years with CAC providing specialized services to young survivors of abuse in our shared service area. Stephanie Chan Vo, system director – community impact and engagement for Endeavor Health, shared that the partnership...

Every April, Child Abuse Prevention Month calls us to pause and look honestly at what children in our communities are facing. It’s a time to recommit to protecting them, not in theory, but in practice. And that requires us to confront some uncomfortable truths about why abuse happens in the first place. When most people think about child sexual abuse, they imagine a dangerous stranger. But it’s not the reality children are living in. The truth is that most children who exper

In the child advocacy world, education is key to abuse prevention. Kids shouldn't be responsible for protecting themselves against abusers. But teaching kids body safety rules like "I don't keep secrets" gives them tools to use when alone. It also gives caregivers talking points. A recent study published in the journal CHILD MALTREATMENT revealed that of all the grooming strategies used by offenders, intentional secret-keeping = longer periods of abuse. As National Childre

Women’s History Month invites us to honor the women whose courage, leadership and insistence on justice have shaped the world we live in. In child advocacy, this reflection carries a special weight. Our work exists because too many girls and women have endured violence and silencing, yet our work thrives because women continue to rise, lead and heal. At our Child Advocacy Center, this truth is visible every day. We are a 100% women‑led ...

The recent public attention surrounding high‑profile documents related to child exploitation has renewed focus on the pervasive realities of child sexual abuse and its lifelong impact. While CAC does not comment on specific cases or individuals, moments like this underscore the importance of our mission: to support children and families in healing from trauma through compassionate, coordinated and culturally responsive services. Child sexual exploitation occurs when an adult

At the heart of every Child Advocacy Center is a simple but powerful truth: no one discipline can meet the needs of a child who has experienced abuse and trauma. The multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach is one of our greatest strengths, bringing together professionals from law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, medical and mental health services, victim advocacy and forensic interviewing. Each discipline offers a unique lens and expertise, and the real impact comes

When it comes to taxes, everyone could use an “Easy” button, right? Taxes can be stressful, confusing and make you want to avoid adulting. And, with the new year comes new laws. But in 2026, one of those new tax laws might benefit your bank account. For 2025 taxes filed in 2026, you may still be able to take a deduction even if you don’t itemize.

As we recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I find myself reflecting on the values that guided his life’s work: dignity, justice and the inherent worth of every person. These principles are not only central to Dr. King’s legacy; they are at the heart of our vision as a Child Advocacy Center. Our vision of a community where every child can thrive in safety and well‑being is, in many ways, a continuation of the pursuit of equity and human rights that Dr. King championed.

Earlier this month, CAC CEO Melanie Pignotti wrote about the hidden risks for kids at holiday gatherings. As a follow-up to that column, CAC's Mental Health Services team created a list of potential flags that might alert adults if a child is being harmed or is at risk of being harmed. Whether it's things you notice because you don't normally see the child and something just seems off or it's because you know the child well and something just seems off, this list can help you

The Monthly Mindset Column - December 2025 By Melanie Pignotti, LCPC, CAC Chief Executive Officer The holidays are a season of laughter, connection and family traditions. Homes fill with warmth, tables overflow with food and children run from room to room soaking up the magic. But amid the joy, there is a reality we cannot ignore; holiday gatherings can create opportunities for sexual abuse by situational offenders. Situational sexual offenders are individuals who may not

Before I became CEO, I spent years in direct service, working with children and families impacted by trauma. I’ve felt the slow erosion of compassion fatigue. I’ve carried the invisible weight of secondary trauma. And I’ve learned, through experience and reflection, that helping professionals need help, too. That’s why CAC’s annual Symposium isn’t just another event; it’s a cornerstone of our mission. It’s a space created intentionally for those who show up every da

Parenting can be one of the most rewarding—and challenging—journeys, and having the right guidance can make all the difference. The following books, recommended by CAC's Mental Health Services Team, offer evidence-based, compassionate and practical approaches to raising emotionally healthy, resilient children.

With tremendous sadness, CAC announces the passing of Herb Horn, Past President of the Board of Directors and a 13-year board member. From the twinkle in his eye, to his ever-present smile to his wisdom delivered with honesty and empathy, Herb Horn led by example and served CAC with generosity, kindness and complete confidence in the mission. To say he will be missed is an understatement, and CAC extends our heartfelt condolences to Herb's wife and best friend, Bonnie...

We like to believe that “home” is a safe place; a space filled with warmth, comfort, and love. But for many children, home can be confusing, frightening, and unpredictable when domestic violence is part of daily life. Domestic violence (DV) isn’t limited to physical harm. It can include emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse. While it’s often viewed as an issue between adults, the impact on children is both significant and long-lasting.

Move over, #GivingTuesday! DAF Day is here, helping donors conserve cash by making Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) gifts to the nonprofits they...

WARNING: This content contains triggers related to child sexual abuse and suicide. As a mom of grown kids, I left the Dallas Crimes Against Children Conference with mixed emotions last month. Part of me, selfishly, is thankful I raised my kids when the internet was just beginning to influence their social lives on and offline. Part of me is terrified of what lies ahead for my kids, should they decide to become parents, as well as for my colleagues who are currently parenti

As we send our children back to school, it’s important to be mindful of their emotional and psychological safety, not just their physical well-being. Sometimes, children don’t have the words to explain when something feels wrong. That’s why it’s vital for parents and caregivers to recognize the signs that a child may need a safe adult, someone they can trust to listen, protect and help them navigate difficult situations.