Please join us in welcoming, and thanking, our newly appointed Board Member Officers for the Children's Advocacy Centers of Illinois. These exceptional individuals bring their passion, expertise, and dedication to advancing our mission of protecting and supporting children across Illinois.

Jeffrey Brown - President

Jeff is an Assistant State's Attorney, and Chief of the Sex Crimes Unit for the Will County State's Attorney. Jeff couples those duties with heading the animal cruelty unit; and tops that off with as a facility dog handler to a beautiful 5 year old English Black Labrador Retriever, Kiwi, who is used in the court process for abused children at the Will County Children's Advocacy Center.  

Amber Clayborne - Vice President

Amber Clayborne is the parent of a survivor of child sexual abuse. Originally from San Francisco California, Amber had to navigate the system to find the appropriate support and resources for her family in the aftermath of sexual abuse. Her personal life experience led to the founding of the Kerengende Foundation in 2019. 

Chris Hankins - Treasurer

Chris currently serves as the Assistant Business Manager I.B.E.W. local 309 and has a long history of community service.  He has chaired the Pontoon Beach Village Board finance committee along with others, Chris serves on the Madison County Board and has had roles on the Transportation, Facilities, Real Estate tax cycle, Special Service area #1 and Transportation committee. He also serves as the Chairman of the Pontoon Beach Public Water District, and the Local Union Boards as a Trustee on the Health and Welfare, Vacation, Income Security, and 401k Boards.

Anthony "Tony" Kolbeck - Treasurer

Tony Kolbeck recently joined the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services as the Hospital and Provider Services Bureau Chief where he is responsible for the provider enrollment section. An Air Force veteran, he served as a law enforcement specialist at multiple Air Force assignments across the world. Tony worked as a county corrections officer before beginning his career in state government in 2000 with the Illinois House of Representatives.  He moved on to become a legislative liaison at both the Illinois Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Affairs where he developed and implemented legislative initiatives for both agencies. Tony also had the pleasure of serving in executive management positions at several state agencies. 

The Attorney General's Office will be providing Crime Victims Compensation services at our Regional Offices in your area. Staff from our office, that work every day with victims and their families, on compensation applications and claims, will be coming to the community office, once a month, to provide one-on-one assistance.

 I am available to answer any questions you may have about the Compensation Program, or the Regional Office initiative so please do not hesitate to contact me. I may be reached by calling 773-343-9274; Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm. You may also call our Toll-Free Victim Assistance Line at 800-228-3368; Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Find below the flyers for each Regional Office, with the upcoming dates, time, and program information. Please feel free to post them in your offices, share them at meetings, and with your colleagues.

As always, we thank you for your continued interest in our program. We look forward to hearing from you.

Lisa Hennelly, Bureau Chief

Crime Victims Compensation Program

Violence Prevention & Crime Victim Services Division

Here we grow again!! 

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Louis Day, who has taken on the role of Training Coordinator.

With his experience and passion for supporting children, we know he will be a fantastic addition to our team. As the Training Coordinator, Louis will play a crucial role in empowering our staff and partners with the latest knowledge and skills to better serve our community.

"My name is Louis Day. I recently started with the Children's Advocacy of Illinois. I'm from Springfield, born and raised. I have a passion to help others, and have been involved with several other non-profits throughout my career. My background includes working in the public school system, working towards poverty alleviation, and assisting low income individuals and families. In my new role, I look forward to meeting and working with everyone in the coming months, and building upon the knowledge and skills from all of you."

“We’re trained to death

on vicarious trauma but nothing

actually gets done about it.”

This statement made during our staff meeting really put the mental health of my staff into perspective.

When I started at the Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center (FWCAC), I quickly realized the work we do is hard. With the stress of COVID on top of the already stressful workload, mental health needed to be addressed ASAP. I was nervous to make any changes (as most new Directors are), so I started small. 

The first step I took was allowing sick days to be used for mental health days. I strongly stand behind the belief that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. How can you provide support to a distraught caregiver or focus during a Forensic Interview if you’re not OK yourself? A day spent in bed watching Netflix and decompressing after a week full of interviews is just as healing for your mind as medicine is for your body. 

I also recognized that a day in bed watching Netflix isn’t always possible when there’s work to be done – but what better makes for better medicine than Netflix? Dogs. Dogs have been shown to raise levels of the feel-good brain chemicals oxytocin and dopamine. We’re not fortunate enough to have a therapy dog at our small Center, but if we have a day with no interviews, a text asking “Can I bring my dog to work?” will always be answered with a “yes.”

Then, the conversation about vicarious trauma that happened in our staff meeting got me thinking even harder about what CACs were actually doing to support staff, other than telling them what they already know – “the cases you deal with are hard and I bet you have some trauma from that.” This is what prompted me to reach out to Kathy Murphy, CACI VOCA Grant Manager, and propose the idea of using CESF funding to pay for counseling sessions for our Center’s staff. We preach the benefits of counseling to the children and families we serve – but why don’t we practice what we preach? I opened up the idea of counseling to our staff and was surprised when it was well-received. We have two wonderful therapists we contract with and they were more than willing to work with our Center’s staff. These therapists know the cases we see, the stories we hear, and just the ins and outs of CACs. It provided an extra level of comfort to our staff, knowing they wouldn’t be walking into a room with a stranger who could only sympathize and not empathize. 

Lastly, the work we do is not only hard, but it’s confidential. You can’t go to your spouse, friend, or mom to debrief – which is why it’s even more important that we’re there for each other. I’m always trying to find a healthy balance of holding staff to high standards while providing opportunities for self-care and supporting them any way I can -- but I think the most important part of this journey has been promoting a work culture that allows open communication. We know when we need to pick each other up, when we’re struggling with a difficult case or task, or when we just need a listening ear. 

We show so much care to the children and families we serve, the least we can do is show the same care for each other, and just as important, for ourselves.

Sarah Anderson,

Executive Director

Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center

Sarah, carries out the purposes, policies, and programs of the Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center by establishing and promoting a facility that has a home like atmosphere in which cases of child sexual abuse and other child abuse may be handled in the least traumatic environment. She directs activities of the employees of the FWCAC and carries the majority of the responsibilities for fundraising efforts, and public relations work in collaboration with the Board Committee members. CACI thanks Sarah for sharing her words, awareness and work!

We believe that every child deserves to be heard and supported. By enacting House Bill 2607, Illinois has taken a bold stance in safeguarding the rights and well-being of our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. We are grateful to Governor JB Pritzker, State Representative Adam Niemerg, and all those who supported this legislation for their unwavering dedication to our children's safety.

We were overjoyed to receive the team from Iroquois Federals generous donation of support during their Jeans Day events benefiting CACI!  The contribution will make an impact in advocating for children in abusive situations across Illinois. 

Thank you, Iroquois Federal, for being a shining example of kindness and generosity! 

Kenny Matthews

Director of Finance

This month, I read (and am highly recommending) "Limitless" by Jim Kwik. This is a great book on how to learn and really hit home for me. In my opinion, getting more people reading and learning would help overcome a lot of the negativity and dogma we are surrounded by. This is the kind of book you read, revisit, and share, and I hope you give it a chance! Additionally, summer means blockbuster movies and you know I love my movies. I highly recommend checking out "Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning" and "Sound of Freedom." Feel free to skip "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." But we have many more coming out soon that I am definitely looking forward to!

Kathy Murphy

VOCA Grant Manager

VOCA Fiscal News

Upcoming Due Dates: VOCA July Fiscal Expense PFR due Thursday, August 10, 2023

Jayonna Craig is replacing Michael Morgan as the VOCA grant Monitor as we transition to the new grant teams. Please make sure to include both myself and Jayonna on all VOCA related emails. Michael will continue to assist as needed throughout the first quarter of the grant, so you can continue to include him on all emails for the time being. 

FY23 Wrap-up

Thanks to everyone for a great year. We are still working on finishing up things up, but I have the final totals for the grant spend out. $7,964,468.62 of the grant amount of $8,100,000 was expended. Leaving $135,531.38 unspent. 

I am looking forward to an awesome FY24!

Jayonna Craig

VOCA Grant Monitor

"Feeding the Soul" by Tabitha Brown is an absolute gem that I can't put down. This book has touched my heart and nourished my spirit in ways I didn't expect. Tabitha's storytelling is so genuine and heartfelt, making it feel like she's speaking directly to me.

Her insights into finding joy, gratitude, and purpose in life are profound and relatable. The way she intertwines her personal journey with valuable life lessons is both inspiring and comforting. Each chapter is like a warm hug, reminding me to slow down, savor the little moments, and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.

"Feeding the Soul" is not just a book; it's a transformative experience. Tabitha's authenticity shines through every page, making it a joy to read. Her positive energy and infectious optimism are contagious, leaving me feeling uplifted and motivated to embrace life with a renewed sense of purpose.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for inspiration, guidance, or simply a heartwarming and delightful read. Tabitha Brown's wisdom and kindness resonate deeply, reminding us all to nourish our souls and find joy in the journey.

Hanane Bousfoul

Data Specialist

New service definitions are now available and can be accessed via this link.

The central objective of this project is to establish consistency and clarity in data definitions across all services offered by CACs throughout Illinois. The aim is to enhance the quality of our data, making it more insightful. It's important to note that these definitions are not set in stone; they are designed to be adaptable, allowing for ongoing revisions as new data comes to light and as we incorporate your invaluable feedback. We encourage you to review these definitions and provide any comments or suggestions you may have. To submit feedback, refer to the project summary in the provided link.

Michael Morgan

DCFS Grant Manager

VOCA: Reminder: All VOCA related emails should be sent to: Kathy Murphy (kathy@cacionline.org), Jayonna Craig (jayonna@cacionline.org), and Michael Morgan (michael@cacionline.org)

DCFS: Moving forward all DCFS related emails should be sent to: Michael Morgan (michael@cacionline.org) and Lauren Crocker (lauren@cacionline.org).

Lauren Crocker

Grant Compliance Specialist

We have been celebrating our growing "pet" family! The past month has been nothing short of exhilarating for our household, as we proudly announce the newest members of our ever-expanding "pet" family. As you might remember from my last month's introduction newsletter, we were already quite a lively bunch with a variety of adorable companions including a labradoodle, baby red slider turtle, and a frog. However, we're delighted to share that we've taken our love for animals to a whole new level! My son found 11 new baby frogs and one tree frog and added them to the family this past month. Our family size is growing and the trips to the store to get crickets and worms are increasing

Mackenzie Dowling

Director of Programs

Mackenzie attended a Zoom webinar on the Crime Victim Compensation Program hosted by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office on July 7th, 2023. This webinar was designed for for victim service providers, community partners, and other members of the public who may be interested in learning more about the program - and was very informative. The training shared information on the updates to the Crime Victims Compensation Act and the administration of the program. Topics discussed included the new compensation limits, the expanded application window, changes to applicant eligibility, and a time for participant questions.

A second webinar on this topic will be hosted on August 8th, 2023.

Registration information is available below:

Tuesday, August 8, 2023 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Register in advance for this webinar.

Mike Burns

Statewide MDT Coordinator

SAVE THE DATE!!

The 2023 MDT Coordinator Training will be held November 15th and 16th at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington.

This 2-day annual training allows each of us to network, collaborate and learn! Registration will open in August. Speakers and topic information coming soon.

Hope to see you there!

Ya'Shika Reed

Training and Prevention Specialist

Borrowed information from Prevent Child Abuse Illinois:

"Recently, we've seen some huge wins for early childhood services, which were made possible through advocacy efforts! On May 27, the Illinois General Assembly passed the FY24 state budget, which included funding for Governor Pritzker’s Smart Start Illinois initiative. Smart Start Illinois will create additional preschool slots, provide more stable funding for childcare providers, and reach more vulnerable families with early support and resources. Funding increases for early childhood programs in the FY24 budget total nearly $300 million and include the following vital investments: $75 million (12.5% increase) to the Early Childhood Block Grant at the Illinois State Board of Education, which will be used to create 5,000 new preschool slots $170 million (increase of 41.4%) to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) for Child Care Workforce Compensation Contracts that will provide wages increases and support stability for the child care sector, as well as funding to serve additional families through the Child Care Assistance Program and support upgrades to the Child Care Management System. $40 million (34.5% increase) for Early Intervention at IDHS $5 million (27.9% increase) to expand home visiting programs at IDHS Reach out to your legislators to let them know you support this incredible investment in early childhood services and thank them for their efforts!"

Some of you may or may not be aware that we parted ways with our mental health clinician supervisor with ABC Counseling, Melissa was a great partner that we had the privilege in working with and she provider us with such great service. Although we have ended our journey with the agency it does not mean goodbye just a see you later. We have welcomed a new MHS supervisor Sharon Klingman (pictured) is a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been working in the mental health field since 1984. For the past 20 years she has also served as outpatient senior therapist for the McLean County Children’s Advocacy Center in Bloomington , IL. Sharon is newly retired from the CAC and currently working at Carle Healthcare in outpatient Behavioral Health. Sharon, we welcome you and appreciate you extending yourself to our providers. I am sure with your experience and knowledge you will be able to provide our clinicians with quality supervision.

Louis Day

Training Coordinator

It's been a great first few weeks for me, getting to know some of you via Zoom and getting to really see some of the outstanding work that you do to advocate for children all across this State.

I look forward to being able to introduce myself at some of our upcoming trainings.

Michelle Hammitt

Member and Communications Manager/NCA Grant Manager

OUTCOME MEASUREMENT SYSTEM: We encourage all CACs using OMS to utilize the Healing, Justice, & Trust: A National Report on Outcomes for Children's Advocacy Centers. This exclusive report contains comprehensive results from 95,636 surveys submitted by 852 CACs in 2021, allowing for easy comparison to national benchmarks.

You must log in to NCA Engage to read the members only report. If you need help with that, and you are a member, please let me know!

CACI WEBSITE: Our website is undergoing upgrades to offer you a better experience. We apologize for any temporary inconveniences that may be experienced. Stay tuned for updates. 

VIRTUAL YEARBOOK: It's ALMOST that time again! CACI will be gathering photos and memories for our 3rd Annual Virtual Yearbook, and we'd love to include you! 📚🎓

Watch our social media and your email because details are coming soon! Get a head start and start digging out your favorite school photo from any grade (Pre-K through College)!

The Knox County Child Advocacy Center (KCCAC) opened in 2002 as a way for prosecutors, law enforcement and DCFS to come together as a team for investigating and prosecuting child abuse cases. Our office is located in Galesburg (Knox County). However, we have always worked with families from Knox, Warren and Henderson Counties. Several years ago the KCCAC began the transition to change their name but the transition was never complete, leaving us with two names. Having two names was confusing but going just by Knox County CAC didn’t always work either. Many people we talked to assumed we just worked with Knox County residents.  

In 2022 we began discussing a name change for our Center. We wanted something that didn’t connect us with just one county. We also wanted to have a name and logo that reflected our goals. After many meetings and conversations we decided on Turning Point Child Advocacy Center. We know when kids and families visit us they are experiencing so many emotions. Often unsure of what happens next or what to do or how they will get through the experience they’ve had that has brought them here. With the services and support we offer at our CAC we try to be that turning point for families so they can begin to heal.  With the name and logo change we also updated many areas of our center to make sure they were warm and inviting to all kids and adults that find themselves in need of our services.  

Jill Mann,

Executive Director

Jill has a B.A in Psychology from Monmouth College. She began working at the CAC in April 2019.

The Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center

100+ Women Who Care is an informal group of women in Williamson County who love to give back to the community. They are moms, wives, leaders, doers, entrepreneurs, business women, teachers, homemakers that lead very busy lives. This group meets three times a year.

At their meetings, three non-profit organizations are chosen to give a speech and at the end, the group votes on who wins the pot of donations. On July 19, one of the 56 women in attendance was our board Vice Chair, Wendy Cunningham, who advocated for the CAC so passionately that we were chosen as the charity of the night, receiving a donation of $7,500!