A safe place for children to tell their story

Learn how our child-centered, team-based approach protects children and supports families—and watch our video to see our model in action.

Answering your questions about our model

  • When a child is referred to us through either law enforcement or child protective services (CPS), we bring together a team of experts to ensure they get the care and protection they need. This Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) includes:

    • Law enforcement – Investigates the case and ensures the child’s safety.

    • Prosecutors and investigators – Help build a strong case if legal action is needed.

    • Child Protective Services – Works to protect the child’s well-being.

    • Forensic interviewers – Speak with the child in a safe, supportive environment.

    • Medical professionals – Provide exams and care when needed.

    This team works together to gather information while keeping the child’s well-being the top priority. Our MDT approach reduces stress for the child, strengthens legal cases, and helps families begin the healing process.

  • We work with law enforcement and CPS to ensure children receive the right support when they need it most. A child may be referred to us through either entity if they are suspected of:

    • Experiencing sexual abuse

    • Experiencing physical abuse

    • Witnessing violence

    • Suffering from neglect

    Our team works closely with investigators to provide a safe, child-friendly environment where children can share their experiences and begin the healing process.

  • Child abuse doesn’t just affect the survivor—it impacts entire communities. Research from the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study found that traumatic experiences in childhood can lead to serious health issues later in life, including obesity, substance abuse, and even early death.

    That’s why TBCAC is committed to prevention. The more we work to stop child abuse before it happens, the healthier and stronger our communities will be. When children grow up in safe, supportive environments, everyone benefits—families heal, cycles of trauma are broken, and our community becomes a better place for future generations.

  • At Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center (TBCAC), we support children, teens, siblings, and caregivers—because healing is a family effort.

    We take a multi-generational approach, encouraging everyone in a child’s protective circle to be part of their healing journey. When families and caregivers are involved, it helps break the cycle of abuse and builds a stronger, safer community for all children.

  • If you suspect a child is being abused, report it immediately to your local child protective services or law enforcement agency. If you’re unsure how, TBCAC can help guide you through the process and connect you with the right resources.

    Call us: (231) 929-4250

Protecting children starts with you

Every child deserves a safe and supportive childhood, and at Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center, we work every day to make that a reality. But keeping kids safe takes all of us.

Whether you donate, volunteer, or speak up when something isn’t right, your involvement helps us provide life-changing services and build a safer community.

Together, we can create a future where every child feels safe, heard, and supported—because protecting children is a responsibility we all share.

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