: Dallas Children's Advocacy Center

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DCAC FAQs

Please choose from the following frequently asked questions.

What is the Dallas Children's Advocacy Center?

The Dallas Children's Advocacy Center (DCAC) is a nonprofit agency that provides a coordinated, multi-agency approach to the investigation, intervention, and treatment of child sexual and physical abuse. Our mission is to improve the lives of abused children in Dallas County and provide national leadership on child abuse issues. Our facility includes DCAC's staff of specially trained forensic interviewers, therapists, and client services staff as well as the Dallas Police Department's Child Abuse Unit, an investigative unit of Child Protective Services, and a Dallas County Assistant District Attorney. Together with law enforcement organizations from throughout Dallas County, and our medical partners at Children's Medical Center, The Department of Pediatrics, and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, DCAC provides hope and healing to abuse victims.

Why is DCAC necessary?

The criminal justice system, primarily designed for adult perpetrators not child victims, often lacks coordination between police, prosecution, mental health and medical agencies. Before DCAC, children were often "re-victimized" through unnecessary and repetitive interviews due to each agency's independent process. This process led to duplication of efforts between the various departments while also complicating the information for the child's case in an already complex legal system. The Center helps overcome these problems by reducing child trauma and enhancing the investigation, resulting in improved lives for child victims and a higher number of convictions for offenders.

Who does DCAC serve?

DCAC serves sexually and physically abused children under the age of 17 whose case was referred by law enforcement or Child Protective Services. DCAC typically serves the most severe or complex cases of child abuse and child witnesses of violent crime. DCAC served nearly than 2,500 children in 2008. DCAC also provides development and training to community professionals in the fields of law enforcement, prosecution, medical, mental health, and education. In addition, the Center produces programs to civic groups and other social service providers on child abuse related topics.

Are clients charged for services?

DCAC services are provided at no cost to the clients.

Where are you located?

The Center is located at 3611 Swiss Avenue, Dallas, TX 75204.

DCAC is one of the first advocacy centers to be established in Texas. There are over 60 centers of varying size and scope of services in Texas and advocacy centers throughout the country. Visit Child Advocacy Centers of Texas or National Children's Alliance for information about other Children's Advocacy Centers.

What type of services does the Center provide for a child abuse victim?

Multidisciplinary Team Approach: a highly trained team comprised of a police detective, assistant district attorney, Child Protective Services caseworker, forensic interviewer, therapist, and consulting physician (when required) manage each child's case. This team works together to investigate allegations of child abuse and to protect the child. Forensic Interviews: Forensic interviews are conducted in an age appropriate room, with emphasis on the child's comfort, minimal number of interviews, and proper evidence collection. Therapy Services: DCAC offers child victims and non-offending caregivers with needed treatment by experienced therapists. (link therapy page) Family Assistance is provided to DCAC clients and their non-offending family members to help them understand their rights as crime victims and access other community and government resources. Medical Services: Necessary medical exams are conducted at Children's Medical Center of Dallas, REACH Clinic, by specially trained pediatricians using a child sensitive procedure.

How are children referred to the Center?

Children are primarily referred through the two agencies that are mandated to receive reports of child abuse: Child Protective Services and law enforcement.

Who staffs the Center?

The DCAC staff consists of highly skilled direct service and nonprofit management professionals led by Mr. Lynn Davis, President and CEO. DCAC Staff.

How can I become involved with DCAC?

Visit Get Involved to learn more about how you can make a difference at DCAC and in the lives of abused children in Dallas County.

How do I contact DCAC?

The Center's main telephone number is (214) 818-2600. The receptionist will be happy to direct your call to the staff member who can best assist. You can also request information online.