Family advocates ensure that children and families get the support, education and resources they need to help them overcome the trauma of abuse.
Each client family is assigned a family advocate, who guides them through the day at the center and explains the investigation and legal process.
They also help facilitate collaboration among ChicagoCAC’s co-located teams. The family advocate listens to caregivers’ concerns and talks to them about the dynamics of sexual abuse and the effects of trauma.
Family advocates play a critical role in connecting clients with resources in the community to address needs including domestic violence, housing, clothing, food, financial assistance, legal assistance, caregivers’ mental health and medical needs. They also provide crisis stabilization, complete a screening tool to assess children’s mental health and connect families to mental health services as needed.
Family advocates maintain contact with clients and continue to empower them to obtain the resources and services they need to lead healthy lives.