Child abuse prevention advocates fear that funding for child advocacy programs may be threatened in the current rapidly changing federal funding environment. They hope that more information leads to thoughtful consideration and continued support of prevention programs.
On April 24, the Child Advocacy Center of Southwest Michigan (CAC) is hosting its second annual TEA Talk fundraiser from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. at The Inn at Harbor Shores, 800 Whitwam Drive, Saint Joseph. Kevin Mulcahy will deliver the keynote talk. Organizers say he is an inspiring and impactful speaker who will empower those in attendance to stand with every child in our community and take action against such crimes.
CAC says the statistics are alarming. One in 10 children experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday. Ninety percent of sexually abused children know their abuser. Adults are one hundred percent responsible for preventing child abuse in their families and communities. Here is a chance to show the children you know and care about that you are ready to do your part.
“TEA” stands for Truth, Education and Advocacy — the pillars of the CAC’s work. The event aims to raise awareness about child abuse and effective prevention, highlight the essential services the CAC provides free of charge and generate funding through ticket sales, sponsorships and donations. Community members are encouraged to purchase tickets online at TEATALK25.givesmart.com, become a TEA Talk sponsor or directly contribute.
The keynote speaker, Kevin Mulcahy, is a survivor of child sexual abuse. He is a former federal prosecutor in Detroit who spent his career prosecuting a variety of cases, including offenses involving firearms, drugs, bank robberies, threats, terrorism and a wide variety of other federal prosecutions. But most of his caseload focused on child exploitation crimes, including production of child pornography cases, traveler cases and other significant crimes against children prosecutions.
Mulcahy’s presentation, sponsored by the Whirlpool Foundation, will recount his story of sexual exploitation at the hands of a trusted and admired soccer coach. But this is not merely a retelling of the past. Instead, Mulcahy will address lessons learned from his case by combining his experience as a victim and a long-time prosecutor of child exploitation cases — lessons that can be applied by everyone in attendance. And there will be time for questions.
“This program is for everyone who cares about protecting the children they love or work with,” said Stephanie Crider, CAC family advocate/fundraising coordinator. “Mr. Mulcahy’s message is powerful. We can’t wait for our community to hear his story and gain valuable insights from his years of experience prosecuting these cases. You won’t be sorry that you attended.”
CAC Prevention Supervisor Allie Kibler-Campbell will also share insights about April’s Child Abuse Prevention Month and the vital education her team provides to organizations serving youth across Southwest Michigan. These free, age-appropriate programs teach children about personal safety and empowers them to talk to safe adults if someone violates their boundaries. Each year, the CAC brings this programming to thousands of children in classrooms in nearly every public school in Berrien County — yet the need continues to grow throughout local communities. This year’s Child Abuse Prevention Month is generously sponsored by Leco Corporation.
“The need for support is urgent,” said Jamie Rossow, CAC executive director. “Funding from TEA Talk will be used to provide our free school-based prevention education programming. This year, we have presented lessons to 10,500 students and counting, with classes booked solid through the end of the school year. We have seen first-hand how impactful and critical educating children on body, personal and internet safety is in decreasing the likelihood that they will be victims.”
Rossow added that many children and teens are using CAC’s prevention programs as a pathway to disclose abuse. The education they receive helps them recognize inappropriate behavior and gives them the tools to speak up to a safe adult. Supporting the TEA Talk fundraiser is essential for the CAC to continue offering these vital programs. Rossow noted that a State grant has funded the prevention efforts over the past three years, but it will expire in September 2025 — leaving a significant gap in sustaining this critical work.
“By attending this year’s TEA Talk, you will walk away with a better understanding of the importance of child abuse education and speaking up if you see concerning behaviors. Please help children find safety, justice and hope.”
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Michigan is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves children of alleged abuse and their families in Berrien and Cass counties. It uses a multidisciplinary team to investigate and respond to child abuse allegations while also providing prevention education throughout the communities it serves. It also provides crisis counseling and therapy to children and families to assist in processing the trauma, as well as onsite medical exams. Its mission is to reduce the trauma children face during these investigations and to compassionately support those who have experienced sexual abuse. There is no charge for any of its services.
For more information about CAC’s services or to make a donation or to volunteer, visit swmichigancac.org or call 269-556-9640.
