Before the CCAC: A Broken System

Before the CCAC opened its doors in August 2001, sexually abused children in Chicago often had to tell their stories again and again - repeatedly reliving the horror of their abuse. After disclosing what happened to their teacher, a child might have to repeat the details to the principal, school counselor, nurse, police officer, police sergeant, doctor, lawyer, and more. In fact, research shows children would have to retell what happened to them an average of 16 times to child care professionals located all over the City. This might take months or even years.