LetterfromOur ExecutiveDirector
Dear Friends,
As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible strides the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Children has made in 2024. It has been a year of growth and unwavering commitment to those we serve, made possible by the generosity of our supporters and the dedication of our team.
This year, we experienced a significant increase in the demand for our services. The growing awareness of our mission and the challenges faced by victims of crime and abuse brought more individuals and families to our doors. While this surge underscores the critical need for
Director
our work, it also reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that no one faces their journey toward healing alone.
To meet this demand, we grew our team to better serve our community This year, we welcomed several new staff members who bring fresh perspectives, expertise, and energy to our mission. Their passion and dedication have already made a tangible impact, and we are grateful for their contributions. With this expansion, we have been able to enhance our programs and strengthen our ability to provide critical services.
In addition to new team members, we were thrilled to move into our new Hillsboro office space generously provided by Hill County earlier this year. This new office provides a welcoming and safe environment, where those in crisis can find the support and resources they need.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission. We know that the work ahead will be challenging, but with your continued support, we are confident that we can rise to meet it.
On behalf of everyone at the Advocacy Center, thank you for standing with us this year. Your generosity and belief in our mission enables us to be a source of hope and healing for so many. Together, we are building stronger, safer, and more compassionate communities.
Sincerely,
AleighAscherl Executive
Our Vision
To affect community-level change through equitable advocacy, collaboration, prevention and therapeutic services for all children and adults impacted by violence and abuse.
Our CoreValues
Collaboration
We address big issues utilizing teamwork and partnership.
Integrity
We are ethical and trustworthy, making responsible decisions based on professional standards and best practices.
Compassion
We genuinely care about everyone we work with and serve.
Inclusivity
We are committed to a culture that treats everyone with dignity, centering each person's diverse perspective and experiences.
BoardofDirectors
October2023-September2024
OurTeam
The work done at the Advocacy Center is not easy, and it takes particular dedication and passion from each of our staff to offer the best services possible to each of our clients.
This year, we saw an increase in the demand for our services. With some new grant funding sources, we were able to respond by hiring new staff to ensure we met the needs of the communities we serve swiftly and efficiently.
We added an additional Forensic Interviewer, a third Family Advocate, a third Hotline Supervisor, and two additional Counselors, as well as increasing the number of staff who are Spanish-speaking.
We were also particularly excited to add Pearl, a therapy dog, to our staff this year. Pearl provides a calm and fun presence for staff, our Multi-Disciplinary Team partners, and clients.
AleighAscherl Dr.KerryBurkley Executive Director
OurTeam
Grants and Staff Accountant
Administrative and Operations Manager
Children's Advocacy Center
Statewide Intake Supervisor Forensic Interviewer Client Service Specialist Administration
Medical Advisor and Child Sexual Abuse Examiner
PatsyBuckner Family Advocate
SueArgabright
NicoleVassilico
Dr.SooBattle
AshleyCassell
BernieCano AlexisDawkins
OurTeam
JenniferEdwards CAC Rural Client Services Specialist
MelissaMansolo-Byrd Bilingual Family Advocate
HeydiMcKinney Forensic Interviewer
Bilingual Forensic Interviwer
Bilingual Case Intake Specialist and Family Advocate
Prevention and Education
MelissaBuchanan Training & Outreach Specialist
Prevention Community Organizer Forensic Interviewer
HeatherKocian
GraciaMartinez
KristiSkains
MónicaDávila,LMSW
OurTeam
ElsieNaruszewicz,MPH
AriannaGaines
OurTeam
S A F E Coordinator
Bilingual Crisis Hotline Supervisor and Case Manager
Crisis Hotline Supervisor and Case Manager Case Manager and CSEY Coordinator
ErikaRodriguez,LPC Counselor
SamanthaSimpson,LPC Counselor
ShannonYocham,LPC-A Counselor
MelissaSoRelle,LPC-A Counselor
TeresaPerez
SydneyLackey
SarahHopping
MickieDye
Pearl Therapy Dog
SAFENurses
The Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE) program is made up of specially trained Registerd Nurses who are on-call 24/7. They offer compassionate care and support for victims at a moment’s notice. Nurses meet rigorous legal and medical standards required by statute and ethical code. Their work includes forensic medical collection, medical intervention, health education, follow up referrals and objective legal testimony.
S.A.F.E. Coordinator
S A F E Nurse
S.A.F.E. Nurse
S.A.F.E. Nurse
S.A.F.E. Nurse
S A F E
Not Pictured
MaryTerry
Michele Groetzinger
Nurse
Brandy Kennedy
PennyMosley
MickieDye
WandaRoark
Children's AdvocacyCenter
The mission of the Children’s Advocacy Center program is to 1) minimize revictimization of children and protective family members as they go through the investigation, assessment, intervention, and prosecution process; and 2) maintain a cooperative, team approach to facilitate successful outcomes in both the criminal and child protection systems through shared fact-finding and strong, collaborative case development Under this guidance, the CAC program has effectively engaged with our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) partners to ensure client service and informed victim advocacy.
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In2024,theChildren’s AdvocacyCenterprovided forensicinterviews forchildren17andunder whohavemadeanoutcryof abuse,ifabuseissuspected, orifthechildhaswitnessed acrime.
Thenumberof childrenneeding ForensicInterviews increasedby10% thisyear.
In2024,thenumber ofchildrenreceiving forensicmedical examsincreasedby 22%.
76Thisyear children receivedchildforensic medicalexaminations
ADVOCACY CENTER
Within the past year, the Children’s Advocacy Center program has made significant progress and achievements in striving to meet the needs of crime victims and their families The data on our services show that our multidisciplinary team partnerships are stronger We were met with some challenges but utilized our strengths to cultivate and develop ways to stay committed to our goals.
We started the year by offering services to in four designated facilities in four of our five county coverage areas. Although the Advocacy Center for for six counties, the CAC program is in five of those Falls County Judge and MDT partners, we have no Forensic Interviews, Family Advocacy, Case Review Mental Health services The goal is to have that off operational by February 2025 Additionally, we are strides to provide the same services within Bosque with a goal to begin services in October 2025.
We were able to secure training for all our staff and to meet the CACTX standards of operation. Three staff members attend the Juvenile Sex Trafficking conference (JuST) in Phoenix, Arizona. Special thanks to the entire CAC program staff who have worked relentlessly to provide high quality services to the clients and families that we serve.
Preventionand Education
We are excited to be closing out another incredible year in Prevention. This year, our department has seen impressive growth, both in the number of programs and participants and also in the size and capacity of our department itself! With the addition of two new positions, we have increased our outreach and engagement within the rural counties we serve. Our team is dedicated to working toward change in attitudes, behaviors, and norms that could lead to the perpetration of sexual violence. We continue to offer group facilitations of our in-house curriculum, “#HealthyRelationshipGoals” with groups of K-12 students in schools and youthserving organizations. We have worked to continue strengthening relationships with our community partners and to create an environment of empowerment by which individuals have the tools and opportunity to enact change within their own circles of influence.
This year we have worked to be an active partner, participating in incredible community events and working alongside coalitions seeking to create change, in addition to new programs and events of our own. Including a brand-new event we launched this past April, an annual community art gallery to celebrate healthy relationships during Sexual Assault Awareness Month! We also create content centralized on healthy relationships on our Instagram account, @accvc prevention, and our podcast, Real-ationship Goals, available wherever you access your podcasts and YouTube
VictimsCenter
The Victims Center responds immediately to survivors of violence. While 70% of those served by the program are affected by sexual assault, the agency works with victims of all crimes. Services provided include a 24-hour Crisis Hotline, sexual assault nurse exams, case management and counseling. Individual, family, and group therapy are available. In 2024 they provided:
Over the last year the Victim Center has been a vital resource for individuals who have experienced trauma, offering comprehensive services designed to support healing and recovery. Through our dedicated team, we provided 1895 counseling sessions that addressed the psychological and emotional needs of survivors. The counseling services focused on empowering clients, helping them heal and regain their lives with dignity and resilience.
In addition to counseling, The Victim Center also facilitated 148 Advocate and SAFE Nurse attended SAFE exams, ensuring that survivors received the care needed and had forensic evidence collected in a safe, supportive setting while ensuring their physical and emotional wellbeing was prioritized.
The agency’s advocacy services - totaling over 3000 - played a key role in guiding survivors through the healing and restorative process. The assistance ensured the clients received the resources and information necessary to navigate their recovery journey. The Victims Center’s approach to trauma recovery provided not only immediate support but also long-term guidance, enabling survivors to regain control over their lives. Through these efforts the Victims Center continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those who need it most.
New Hill County Office
Hill County generously included us in the planning and building of their own new office space, resulting in a beautiful, warm, and inviting space for Hill County clients to receive services.
Thank you Hill County!
Forensic interview room
Lobby waiting area
Counseling office
Counseling office
Lobby children’s area
Developmentand Fundraising
Our Fundraising Team had a successful year full of fun events. The Development Department is in charge of all major giving, planned giving, annual support, special events, community stewardship, and public relations for the agency. They are tasked with the important work of providing critical funds for our work and for our clients.
In 2024 several events and campaigns brought much-needed resources to the Advocacy Center In addition to our regular annual events like the Mardi Gras Ball, Designer Purse Bingo, and Pinwheels for Prevention, we added a new event this spring. Spill the Tea was a luncheon featuring a panel discussion from local experts in our field. Guests had the opportunity to learn in more detail about the work and impact of the Advocacy Center.
You can sign-up to be a sponsor for any of our events or donate to the Advocacy Center at our website www.advocacycntr.org
Follow us on social media to stay up to date on all giving opportunities!
AdvocacyCenterSupporters
Bernard and Audre Rapoport Foundation
$20,000-$49,999
Bowen Foundation
$5,000-$9,999
Buckeye Bingo
Apple Sport Chevrolet Richard Karr Motors
Baylor Scott & WhiteHillcrest
Alamo Title Bird Kultgen Ford
It Best Foundation
Drs. Jake & Soo Battle/ Camp Careful Dr. Jeff and Mrs. Misti White
Ascension Providence
The Ascherl Family
Crawford Austin
Tara Avants
Balloon Party Waco
Leesa Barrow
John & Lindsay Bawduniak
Dr Bosi Amoro Benevity
Blanchard & Thomas, PLLC
Bowen Electric
Brazos Braces
Bricker Bruner, Kelly Realtors
Cambria Hotel Waco
Advanced Pain Care Dr. Kristy Donaldson
Carl C. Anderson Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Foundation Central National Bank
Cedar Crest Hospital & RTC Ken & Heather Cash
James and Angie Chase Cargill, Inc.
Amanda Cunningham, Coldwell Banker APEX, Realtor
Jacob & Mindy Davis
Mickie Dye
Jim Brejcha & Jerry Dyer, Sr. - Dyer Painting Company
Earthshare of Texas Waco State Employees Charitable Campaign
Erin B. Shank, Attorney at Law
First National Bank of Central Texas
G2 by Georgio’s
Grande Cares
Granite Guys
Tammy Harralson
HarrisonDavisMorrisonJones
Jason & Taffan Hastie
Higginbotham Insurance Agency
AdvocacyCenterSupporters
$1,000-$4,999continued
Lisa & Larry Jaynes
JRBT
Laurel & Finch
Limestone County District
Attorney’s Office
Lochridge Priest
Magnolia
Midway ISD
Omaha CommunityFoundation
Miki Alvarado
Andrea T Properties
Bertha Arellano
Aleigh Ascherl
Beauty Brands
Blackwell Mechanical, LLC
Bloomingals Floral Boutique
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
Brazos Valley Real Estate
Jim & Lacy Brejcha
Amy & Brian Brewer
Melinda Bruce
The Bruce Lab - Dr. Erica
Bruce
Patsy Buckner
Camille Johnson Realtors
Kimberly Capps
Armando Cardoso
Ken & Heather Cash
Mr. Tom Chase
Kyle Crow
Community Bank & Trust
Charlie Pickens
Philanthropy Lab
Republic Gun Club
Roger & Betty Teufel
Texas
Melissa Thomas
Brad & Beth Toben QuikTrip
Krista N. Salome
Josh Satterfield - Edward Jones
Series Computers N’ Stuff of Waco
Studentloans com by Brazos Higher Education
$250-$999
Dena Dieterich
D&L Storage, LLC
Alejandra Espinoza
Rebecca Eubank
Faviana Export, Inc
First Baptist Church Woodway
First Guaranty Bank
Pamela Flores
Gina Ford
Nathan Forrest
Fortenberry Insurance
Debora Fowler
Lacy & Billy Gaines
Jay & Jamie Goble
Briana Gongora
Christina Gonzalez
George’s Restaurant
Bar & Catering
Patricia Graham
Nichole Guthrie
Jason Hammond
Nicole Herring
Hole in the Roof Marketing
Triple A Auctions
Mr. Richard Wallace
Walmart - Grant Program
Scott Warren
Larry Holze
Janine Hundley
Melanie Illich
Dan Ingham
Insurors of Texas
Loeen Irons
J.M.J. Auto Group, LLC
Shelley Johnson
Jones Realty Team
Michael Jones
Jessica Juarez
Brian Kabat
Kendra Scott - Central
Texas Marketplace
Lakeshore Baptist Church
Jessica Lemmons
Gina Long
Love Potions Adult
Boutique
Luminant
Gina & Bobby Martin
Lori Presley McCarter
Vicki Mercer
Cherise & Nick Myatt
AdvocacyCenterSupporters
Paula Nowlin
Brandon Oates
Ocean’s Behavioral Health Services
Kris Olson
Autumn Outlaw
Kristin Pinkstaff
Eleanor Pirtle
Premier Neurofeedback & Counseling Services
RabenWolf Entertainment, LLC
Crystal Radke
Binky Ragon
Beth & Brian Rarrick
David Reinke
Richfield Christian Church
David Risinger
Aaron & Stacey Roby
Geofrey Schwer
Seventh & James Baptist Church
Bleva Sheppard
Skin & Body Refinery
Special Forces Association Chapter 93
Judi Spillman
Alice Starr
Teresa Stevenson
Ann Stigliano
Desirea Studer
Asyoureadearlier,oneofour corevaluesiscollaboration-we absolutelycouldnotdothe importantworkwedowithout allofourpartners,includingour donors.Thankyoutoeachand everypersonwhodonatedthis pastyear.Youareaninvaluable partofourteam,andwelook forwardtopartneringwithyou againthisyear!
Josh & Kelly Tetens
Texas Meter & Device
Trane Technologies
Mrs. Trilby Alyse Trayler
Val Trussell
Katherine Turner-Pearson
Waco Discount Carpet Co. Inc.
Waco Foundation
Laurie Wagnon & Richard Lazott
May Yung Fun Wang
Paul A. Wash
Kathy Wise
Crystal Woods