CAC Trivia Night raises $20K to fight child abuse
Supporters of the CAC packed the Fireman’s Hall for the center’s 20th anniversary. The annual event was put on hold in 2022 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Photos provided by Madison County Child Advocacy Center.
By Devese “Dee” Ursery
An annual fundraiser which helps support some of the community’s most vulnerable victims came roaring back following a pandemic hiatus, raising thousands for the Madison County Child Advocacy Center.
The CAC’s 18th annual Trivia Night saw a packed house at the Madison County Fireman’s Hall with 450 people raising approximately $24,000 to support the organization. Carrie Cohan, CAC director, said the Roaring 20s was the theme of the trivia night in honor of their 20 years of service and the event was one of the most successful in the center’s history.
“This is the best ever event for the Center in terms of dollars raised,” Cohan said. “It was so wonderful to be back in person after three years and we could feel the energy in the room.”
Cohan said supporting events like Trivia Night allows the CAC to continue to provide a place where children are heard, supported and connected. The center provides forensic interviews, professional intervention and supportive services to abused children, offering a safe haven where they can express the trauma they have experienced and begin healing.
“Fundraising and support from the community is part of our annual budget and pays for direct services to child victims of abuse and their families,” Cohan said. “The support of the community ensures that all child victims of abuse are heard, supported and connected.”
Ameren Illinois was the top sponsor of the event, donating $2,500 to the center. Other sponsors included the SHC Foundation with a donation of $1,000 and Widman Construction with a donation of $750. Twelve additional sponsors donated $500 and several others $250.
According to the CAC website, it is estimated that nearly 3,500 children are physically and/or sexually abused in Madison County each year, but only 10% are ever reported. In 2022, the CAC annual report showed 518 children were provided a forensic interview to talk to a trained professional about abuse.
The annual report also shared that 2003 children and families were provided information and support to assist in child abuse investigations. There were 262 children along with their family members that needed therapy services.
The report shows 6,835 students also received child sexual abuse prevention education.
