Maine Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers Maine’s Children’s Advocacy Centers continue to grow and provide more support to sexually abused children and their families. As of the end of FY2016, the Network supported three operating CAC programs serving six Maine counties. In December 2016, coverage was expanded to four CACs serving eight counties. The Network also supported two multidisciplinary teams working toward becoming fully operating programs in 2017. As we work toward supporting counties with existing and expanding CACs, we are also conducting needs assessments and feasibility studies in the remaining counties, which is one of the first steps in the development process. Additionally, we created a statewide model policy to respond to commercial sexual exploitation of children cases which aligns with the Department of Health and Human Services’ policy. We began a quarterly Forensic Interviewer Peer Review program which is an opportunity for Forensic Interviewers to learn new techniques and keep up with the latest research and trends. The program also helps Forensic Interviewers build their skillset for conducting legally sound, trauma informed, child focused interviews. “The Network is essential to our individual ability and capacity to serve Maine. Their work allows us to grow, reflect on, and provide the best services for children and their families.” -CAC Provider In addition to this support, we collaborated with our partners at the Northeast Regional Children’s Advocacy Center to bring several national trainings to Maine including a Victim Advocacy Training, a multidisciplinary team training, and a strategic planning session for programs across the state. Maine Children’s Advocacy Centers’ Service Delivery --725 Forensic Interviews---1461 Direct Service Hours-3 MECASA FY2016 Annual Report
5 Publizr Home