At Maxwell Locke & Ritter, we believe that vibrant and engaged communities happen when there are dedicated people to support them. As a firm, we do this by providing service to more than 65 nonprofit clients and by offering our people time away from the office to participate on boards and committees, and in other volunteer capacities to over 225 additional organizations. One of our greatest strengths is in supporting our people to volunteer their time, talents and treasures in communities where they live, and in activities that reach people in positive ways.
Tax Associate MaLea Sullivan, CPA exemplifies our firm values through her service as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center (WCCAC). Recently, MaLea interviewed Kerrie Stannell, WCCAC CEO, to discuss some of the important work that the organization performs daily for our community.
What is the mission of Williamson County CAC?
The mission of the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center is to provide hope, healing, and justice for children and families impacted by abuse, violence, and exploitation in our community.
What is the difference between CASA and CAC?
While CASA recruits and trains volunteers to represent abused or neglected children in the court system, Children’s Advocacy Centers bridge the gap between law enforcement, social services, and the court system to ensure that abused children and their non-offending family members receive the support and justice they deserve under one roof, all free of charge. WCCAC staff includes case coordination (MDT), forensic interviewers, medical services, mental health counselors, family advocates, prevention and education, and administration.
What is one of the biggest challenges that your organization faces?
The biggest challenge that our organization faces is the number of abused children being brought in for services despite our growing county population. As our community grows, unfortunately, so do the number of cases of child abuse, yet we aren’t seeing our intake count grow as much as we should. This means vulnerable and abused children are falling through the cracks, not being brought into our facility, and therefore not receiving the care, support, or justice that they so rightfully deserve.
What can folks do to help support your work?
It only takes one conversation, one phone call, one report to make a difference in the life of a child. Report child abuse to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by calling 1-800-252-5400.
You can also support our mission by donating your time and treasure, attending a training or fundraising event, or hosting a drive. To learn more about our organization, please visit our website at wilcocac.org or contact our Director of Development, Tiffany Sturman at (512) 943-3716.
