Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center

06/19/2026

The Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center is closed today in observance of Juneteenth. As we recognize this important day in our nation's history, we encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on its significance. ❤️💚🖤

06/18/2026

Great work by our MDT!

06/16/2026

With more free time in the summer, many children spend increased time online, whether it's gaming, watching videos, or using social platforms.

Technology can be useful in many ways, but it’s also important for caregivers to stay engaged and aware.

Simple ways to support online safety:

📱 Know the apps your child is using
📱 Keep devices in shared spaces when possible
📱 Have ongoing conversations about online interactions
📱 Remind children they can always come to you if something feels uncomfortable

06/15/2026

Say hello to a familiar and local face presenting at Downstate Conference on Child Abuse! Our work is hard and we're grateful for the support Jason provides to so many first responders in the Downstate area!

Thanks, Jason (Koen Counseling and Wellness Center, PLLC), for being willing to share your knowledge and passion for mental health with our attendees.

Please help us welcome Jason Plichta to this year’s Downstate Conference!

Jason has been a police officer for over 18 years in both northern and southern regions of Illinois, spent a year working in juvenile corrections. As a police officer, Jason served in many capacities, but his life changed after a double-homicide call.

After working on his mental health, he started the Therapy K-9 Unit and was partnered with Paw-fficer Gary (aka: Dog-tor Gary) at a previous department focusing on community outreach and mental health. After returning to school Jason decided to focus full-time on counseling first responders, frontline workers and their families.

We stress the importance of trauma focused investigations, but it's important we check in on our own mental health, too, which is why we're excited for Jason's session:️ Helping Ourselves After We Help Others.

06/11/2026

June is Internet Safety Month, and the ICAC Task Force is encouraging families to remember "PAWS: Think Twice!" This kid-friendly acronym serves as a reminder of important steps children can take to stay safe in the digital world.

P – Private Info Stays Private
A – Alert a Trusted Adult
W – Walk Away from Uncomfortable Situations
S – Screen Your Friends

ICAC has many great resources, both for parents and children! Check them out here 👉 https://icactaskforce.org/internetsafety

06/10/2026

There's been a lot of behind the scenes work going on as the Downstate Committee has been working on plans for the 32nd Annual Downstate Conference on Child Abuse!

The speaker list and sessions are finalized, so make sure you follow the conference page -- an exciting announcement about the keynote speaker was shared today!! 👀

06/09/2026

In our anonymous Youth Feedback Survey, children are asked, "What did you like about the Center?"

One child shared the below feedback. 👇💙

When a child feels that someone truly cares about them and their story, it can make a lasting difference during a difficult time. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide a safe, child-focused environment where children know their voices matter.

06/09/2026

As children spend more time at camps, activities, and with extended caregivers during the summer, one of the most important protections we can offer is clarity.

Children should know:

☀ Who their trusted adults are
☀ Where they can go for help
☀ That they will be believed when they speak up

When children know who their safe people are, they carry a different type of confidence with them wherever they go.

This summer, take a moment to help the children in your life identify their safe circle.

06/01/2026

It's officially June, schools are out, and summer break is here! ☀️

For children, however, summer can also mean changing routines, different caregivers, and time away from trusted teachers and school staff.

Schedules are shifting, but a child's need for connection is not.

Consistent moments like a morning check-in, a predictable ride to camp, or a familiar bedtime routine can help children feel a sense of security, even in a busy season full of change.

This summer, we encourage caregivers to hold onto small, steady routines that help children feel safe, supported, and secure.

05/31/2026

Today, Kyllah, our MDT Coordinator/Forensic Interviewer, celebrates FOUR years with the FWCAC!! 🥳 We are grateful for the way Kyllah leads our team, checks in on others, and walks with kids through some of the hardest moments.

As of this week, Kyllah has conducted 599 forensic interviews. 💙 What an impact she has made for the children we serve and our community as a whole over her last four years!

Please join us in taking a moment to congratulate Kyllah and thank her for her dedication to this hard work. ✨