Who We Are
Our office was created to ensure that children across our region continue to have access to the critical, trauma-informed services they need and deserve close to home. While the child advocacy center started under another nonprofit entity, it became an independent organization in 2025.
This allowed the Child Advocacy Center of Central Missouri (CACCMO) to establish itself as a new, independent organization dedicated solely to this essential mission. Learn more about CACCMO and how to get involved below.
Our Purpose is Simple:
Provide children with a safe, neutral space where they can be heard, protected, and supported.
We work within Missouri’s child welfare model as a child-first partner to the multidisciplinary team (MDT), which includes law enforcement, the Missouri Children’s Division, medical providers, mental health professionals, and legal partners.
CACCMO’s Core Services
CACCMO provides the core services families rely on, including:
- Forensic Interviews
- Medical evaluations through the Safe Care program
- Mental health network services
- Advocacy and caregiver support throughout the entire process
Our focus is on reducing trauma for children while helping safe caregivers navigate the systems around them. Our commitment to our mission is unwavering: every child deserves safety, support, and a place where their voice matters.
CACCMO proudly serves children and families throughout a 9-county region in Central Missouri. Through collaborative partnerships with law enforcement, child protection agencies, medical providers, mental health professionals, and prosecutors, we help ensure children have access to compassionate, coordinated support closer to home.
Our Mission
The mission of the Child Advocacy Center of Central Missouri is to support child victims of abuse and violence by promoting healing through medical, mental health and advocacy services and to promote justice through coordinated investigative and prosecutorial responses.
Meet Our Team
Brenda Porter
CEO
Meghan Dawson, LPC
Therapist
Ben Wall, LPC
Therapist
Madalynn Kirsch
Forensic Interviewer
Michaela Shields
Forensic Interviewer
Amber Tallman
Child and Family Advocate, Missouri Support Specialist
Dejanae Thomas
Child and Family Advocate, Missouri Support Specialist
Children First Focus
At CACCMO, children remain at the center of every decision we make. From creating a welcoming environment to coordinating services in one location, our approach is designed to help children feel safe, supported, and heard while reducing additional trauma during difficult circumstances.
Board of Directors
Kelly Schultz
Board President
Kelsey Louder
Vice President
Kale Dempsey
Treasurer
Shanelle Moore
Secretary
Steve Stockman
Board Member
Caitline Whaley
Board Member
Want to donate or get involved?
Volunteer & Career Opportunities
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the families we serve. There are many meaningful ways to help create a warm, welcoming environment at our center. You can support our work by:
- Decorating interview and waiting rooms to make the space feel calm and comforting for children and caregivers
- Donating comfort items such as individually wrapped snacks, water bottles, juice boxes, and art supplies
- Assisting with events, fundraisers, or community
outreach activities
Your time, skills, and care help us provide a safe, supportive place for every family who walks through our doors. Contact us today to learn more.
Our Office Hours
8:30am - 4:30pm M-F
*Available 24/7 for
emergencies
If you believe a child is at
risk for harm call 911 or
1-800-392-3738