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2023

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Louisiana Fosters – Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month

 

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Prevent Child Abuse
Louisiana

 

Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana

The state affiliate of Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana (PCAL) has returned to Louisiana! The office is now housed under VIA LINK, a non-profit organization focused on providing crisis support, connecting people to resources and services, and providing data and trend information to ensure policies and programs meet community needs.

VIA LINK’s Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana (PCAL) department aims to provide 24/7 emotional support for families, a connection to parenting resources, advocacy for children and families, and education for those who care for Louisiana’s children. An essential role of PCAL is advocacy, outreach, and education. Our goal is to prevent child abuse by supporting the needs of parents, children, and entire families. We also create and offer educational presentations and training for parents and professionals who work in supporting Louisiana children.

PCAL is pleased to share an excellent service for parents available statewide 24/7. By calling the Louisiana Parent Line, parents have immediate access to specialists who can offer emotional support, de-escalation, crisis intervention, information and referrals, and plans for coping. These calls provide parents a safe space to express their frustrations, ask parenting questions, and get support. The number to call is 833-LA-Child, or text 225-424-1533. With April designated as National Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, PCAL and VIA LINK will be supporting CAP month by encouraging our community to participate in the following activities:Be a part of the virtual pinwheel garden in support of PCAL’s mission by visiting www.preventchildabuse.org

  • Make a pinwheel in support of child abuse prevention and display it in front of your home or business. See our online posts and website for details on creating a pinwheel.
  • VIA LINK is hosting a free, virtual Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) presentation on April 17th. For more information about this Lunch and Learn, please email screspo@vialink.org

  • Watch for posts throughout the month on social media to raise awareness about prevention and visit our website and follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/VIALINK211

For more information, contact Sherrard Crespo, LCSW Director of Outreach and PCAL, at screspo@vialink.org.

 

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April Adoption Feature

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Each month we feature children and teens available for adoption in Louisiana. For April, we’d like to introduce you to Linda and Camden from the Lafayette Region. 

 

About Linda-Age 16 

Linda is a fun-loving teenager with a huge smile. She likes playing and watching sports and other outdoor events like bike riding and swimming. Linda plays the snare drum in her school’s marching band. Linda does well academically and is proud of her academic achievements. She needs someone who will push and encourage her to meet her greatest potential. She needs a role model who cares about making her a part of their lives. Linda can express her needs, is very smart and creative. She has big dreams for her future and desires to travel the world one day. What Linda desires most is what most of us take for granted—a forever family and a home of her own.

 

About Camden-Age 15 

Camden is a very polite and respectful young man who is very friendly and will talk your ears off. He enjoys playing video games, with his favorite being Five Nights at Freddy’s. He is very artistic and creative and loves to research various topics. Camden enjoys school and is working very hard to reach his full academic potential. He is searching for a forever family that will mentor, support, and encourage him in achieving his goals. Are you that family? 

If you are considering adopting or fostering a child, take that first step by attending a free, virtual orientation session. For more information about becoming a foster/adoptive parent and the training available, visit our website. You can also call your regional office or email DCFS.HomeDevelopment@la.gov with your name and parish of residence for more information.

 

Visit the Louisiana Fosters Website

 

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People of Louisiana – Schools (April 2023)

 

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JORDYN VICKNAIR

St. Charles Parish Public Schools
Destrehan High School
2023 Louisiana New Teacher of the Year 

Lessons of a
First-Year Teacher

 
 
 
 
 

JORDYN VICKNAIR

Lessons of a First-Year Teacher

With summer approaching, I find myself reflecting upon the school year and thinking about lessons learned. My name is Jordyn Vicknair, and as you may have concluded from the title, I am a new teacher. I taught my first year in Ascension Parish and moved to start my second year of teaching in St. Charles Parish. In such an impactful profession, the pressure to perform is high, especially for a new teacher. As new teachers, we often think about what we expect teachers to be – what we should say, what we should wear, what we should have in our classrooms, what we should be feeling, etc. This endless list of expectations is impossible to master in one year. So the big question is how can we, as teachers, bring more of ourselves into the classroom daily to be the best we can be for our students and ourselves? I want to share with all of you the most important lesson I have learned during my short time as an educator: be yourself. 

As cliche as it sounds, the most significant way to remain happy, motivated, and excited about work is to ensure we are bringing our authentic selves to school, not a fake imitation of who we feel others expect from us. School breaks are nice, and with the amount of work we put in to ensure our students are successful, they are well-deserved. What happens when we start to feel like we are only ever our true selves on the weekends or on breaks? It can sometimes feel like our teacher personalities are entirely separate from who we are outside the classroom. We spend our time being who we think our students need us to be. This exhaustion of trying to deliver an Oscar-worthy performance every day can have the opposite effect and may lead to resentment. I have found this year that the only teacher our students need is us, the real us, and I’ve been so much happier and less stressed since. Here are some ways I have found to bring ourselves into our classrooms to be the best version of ourselves. 

  1. Share parts of yourself with your students. One way to connect with our students while also connecting with our inner selves is to share details and aspects of ourselves that are important to us. This can be as simple as sharing our weekend plans, favorite foods, and sports teams with students. Allowing a small amount of time for non-content conversation is vital in building relationships with your students. Once we let them see us as people, they’ll be more willing to participate in class discussions knowing that we’re human, too. We shouldn’t be afraid to add personal touches to our space like we would if we had an office job, such as pictures of our family, friends, and pets. We will feel more connected to “weekend us” when we bring more of them into work.
  1. Professional dress does not have to be boring. Think of your favorite things to throw on when you get home or on Saturdays. Is it your old tie-dye t-shirt from college? Is it a pair of fuzzy polka-dot socks? What about the flare jeans from Goodwill that people claim went out of style decades ago? We should always try bringing appropriate elements of this style into our Monday-Friday wardrobe. Instead of a rotation of neutral blouses, we can try adding our favorite bright colors and prints. We can wear our favorite T-shirt on casual days with a nice blazer or a pair of slacks. Clothes are so important in expressing ourselves. Let’s allow our students to see more of who we are by wearing things that make us feel happy. I find myself happier when I keep my attire appropriate while not conforming to what I imagine a teacher should be dressed like.
  1. Your classroom is your second home; make it comfortable. If you’re anything like I was in my first year, you probably spent just as many, if not more, hours in your classroom than you did in your bedroom. Bringing personal touches to our classroom can help to make it a place our students and we want to spend time in. This doesn’t have to break the bank either. I have found some amazing pieces for my room at discounts, thrift stores, or even from veteran teachers looking to do some spring cleaning. My favorite items include lamps, rugs, motivational posters made in Canva, picture frames, desk knick-knacks, and even plants. Of course, these things range from neon green to bright orange for me, but it can be anything we feel represents us best. 
  1. Implement your favorite things into your lessons. One advantage we have being new teachers is a relatability to students who grew up in similar times as we did. Often, some of our favorite things are also our students’ favorite things! On many occasions, I have implemented pop culture references into my math lessons. I’ve used TikTok for a Geometry project, a karaoke microphone from Five Below to act out scenarios, and I’ve even had students submit songs for a classroom playlist that we use during independent work. These are all things I love outside of the classroom, and by bringing them into my lessons, I’ve felt more connected to myself. This may look like making connections to our favorite books or movies. Maybe it looks like bringing art into a math lesson or sports into a science lesson. It’s just a bonus that these connections to the outside world will also help put the content into perspective for your students.
  1. Make time for the things you love, even during the week. Trust me, on countless occasions I have been so consumed with writing lessons and grading papers that I’ve neglected the people and things I love. Where does it say we can only hang out with friends on Friday nights? Where does it say we can only go to the movies on the weekend? Spoiler alert – no one’s said that. The best way to prevent the so-called “inevitable” teacher burnout is to do things that bring you daily joy. This could be as simple as visiting a new restaurant after school, calling our relatives on our commute home, or reading a book by our favorite author. Breaking the work – home – work – home routine during the week will make the weekends feel like just another day. Finally, we can say goodbye to those Sunday scaries!

We experience so many firsts and learn so many things as new teachers. It can be exhausting to constantly put on a show of being the perfect teacher. We are called to this profession for many reasons; one is because of who we are without trying to be someone else. From now on, we should aim not to lose ourselves in the process of trying to be the ideal teacher. Our students will benefit immensely from a teacher who is honest and happy, so let’s take care of ourselves. As excited as I am to enter summer as “me,” I’ll be sure to enter the next school year as “me,” too. 

Jordyn Vicknair
St. Charles Parish Public Schools
Destrehan High School
2023 Louisiana New Teacher of the Year 
@mathteacherslay on Instagram and TikTok

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Feature: Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

 

Recognizing 
Child Abuse 
Prevention Month

by Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

 

 

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Recognizing Child Abuse
Prevention Month

By Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is a taboo topic that many do not care to discuss; however, with approximately five child deaths reported every day, we should recognize that this epidemic is taking over our communities and should be prepared to respond appropriately. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), as amended and reauthorized by the CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010, defines child abuse and neglect as, at a minimum, “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation (including sexual abuse as determined under section 111), or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm” (42 U.S.C. 5101 note, § 3).

When someone hears the term “child abuse,” they most commonly associate it with physical abuse; however, there are four types of abuse to include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and child neglect. Physical abuse is the deliberate intention to inflict pain. Wounds, bruises, burns, fractures, and sore muscles are signs of physical abuse, but abuse can also result from severe acts of discipline. Emotional abuse is behaviors toward the child that cause mental anguish (also called psychological abuse). Examples of emotional abuse are shouting often at the child, withholding kindness or affection, extended periods of silence, and harsh jokes at the expense of the child.

Child neglect is the most common type of child abuse and can be defined as parents or caregivers who are continually unavailable for the child. Neglect occurs even if the parent is physically present but unavailable or refuses to care for the child or meet their needs. Sexual abuse is defined as touching a child in a sexual manner, or having sexual relations with the child is sexual abuse and includes any behavior toward the child for sexual stimulation. This type of abuse is characterized by fondling, forced sexual acts, and indecent physical exposure. In the United States, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday.

Though these stats are alarming, we are so thankful to have 15 Children’s Advocacy Centers in the state of Louisiana to assist child victims of abuse. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) are community-based, child-friendly, and trauma-informed organizations that coordinate a multidisciplinary response to child maltreatment allegations. CACs deliver a best practice model that brings together child protective services investigators, law enforcement, forensic interviewers, prosecutors, family advocates, and medical and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers. Simply put, CACs are a safe haven for child victims and their non-offending caregivers as they assist them on their road to healing and justice. The Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC) is the state association dedicated to supporting each CAC and ensuring that every victim of child abuse in Louisiana has access to the services they need to experience justice and healing.

During April, you will find blue pinwheel gardens planted throughout the community. In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America introduced the blue pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the great childhood that every child deserves and the role we all play in providing a loving and supportive environment for the children in our lives. You will also hear of various activities such as social media campaigns, proclamation ceremonies, prevention education sessions, and more! To find a Child Abuse Prevention Month event near you, please visit the LACAC Facebook page, www.facebook/lacacs, or our website at www.lacacs.org.

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

 

ABOUT LACAC
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers’ mission is to promote and support Children’s Advocacy Centers in providing a coordinated multidisciplinary response to child victims of abuse through development, training and advocacy.

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Blog – April 2023

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BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking

April 2023

This time last year I launched the National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking (NCPHST). I believe, at the time, I had no idea how far the reach would go and no idea how many people would join this fight.

On Sunday, April 3, 2022 our newly formed National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking hosted several first ladies and governors at an awareness event in New Orleans. We had close to 500 in attendance there to learn. We learned from those working to rescue and support people trapped in HST and heard from several survivors about the horrors of this crime. It was an incredible weekend and the journey began.

Since this singular event took place, much has happened.  Through the work of my office and the Governor’s office of Human Trafficking we have made great strides. Here are some accomplishments in just this one year.

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  • Because of the outreach of the event, over 2,800 key professionals including hospitality workers, EMTs, Emergency Room staff, and 911 operators were trained to recognize trafficking, report it, and understand the resources available to victims.
  • These trainings provided professionals, who are often the first in contact with trafficking victims (many underage), the knowledge and resources to act and refer the victims to appropriate resources.
  • As a direct result of the NCPHST event, the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention (OHTP) has conducted and/or partnered with agencies to host 35 human trafficking trainings throughout the state.
  • In addition to these trainings, the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention partnered with the Louisiana Alliance of Child Advocacy Centers to provide a statewide, multi-state care coordination workshop.

Also, 15 DARE Officers participated in a “Train-the-Trainer” session and will be responsible for ongoing training for more than 150 DARE Officers statewide to include age-appropriate lessons on grooming and trafficking to our children.

  • Overall, 3,290 professionals have been trained since the event took place, and we still receive requests for training.
  • We partnered with as many state agencies as we could to disseminate information. I have done several radio and print interviews. Cox Communications and LPB have run PSA’s on all of their affiliates throughout the state.
  • There were billboards on our highways, stickers with the national hotline on the backs of restroom stall doors, and very recently we have partnered with the trucking associations to have posters, bumper stickers, and pamphlets on our trucks and in truck stops.

My work in this area has grown at a rate I could not have predicted. But, the need for action in Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness is immediate and urgent. You can find information about our work in the past and organizations in your area you can help on our website here and information about NCPHST here.

I think of this verse from Isaiah 61:1-2, when I need encouragement to continue this sometimes difficult work. “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.”

I fully intend to continue working on this issue after our time in the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion is done. I hope you will join me in this fight – even if just in prayer.

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National Coalition for the
Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking

April 2023

LFF_Blog_2023_FirstLady

 

This time last year I launched the National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking (NCPHST). I believe, at the time, I had no idea how far the reach would go and no idea how many people would join this fight.

On Sunday, April 3, 2022 our newly formed National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking hosted several first ladies and governors at an awareness event in New Orleans. We had close to 500 in attendance there to learn. We learned from those working to rescue and support people trapped in HST and heard from several survivors about the horrors of this crime. It was an incredible weekend and the journey began.

Since this singular event took place, much has happened.  Through the work of my office and the Governor’s office of Human Trafficking we have made great strides. Here are some accomplishments in just this one year.

  • Because of the outreach of the event, over 2,800 key professionals including hospitality workers, EMTs, Emergency Room staff, and 911 operators were trained to recognize trafficking, report it, and understand the resources available to victims.
  • These trainings provided professionals, who are often the first in contact with trafficking victims (many underage), the knowledge and resources to act and refer the victims to appropriate resources.
  • As a direct result of the NCPHST event, the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention (OHTP) has conducted and/or partnered with agencies to host 35 human trafficking trainings throughout the state.
  • In addition to these trainings, the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention partnered with the Louisiana Alliance of Child Advocacy Centers to provide a statewide, multi-state care coordination workshop.

Also, 15 DARE Officers participated in a “Train-the-Trainer” session and will be responsible for ongoing training for more than 150 DARE Officers statewide to include age-appropriate lessons on grooming and trafficking to our children.

  • Overall, 3,290 professionals have been trained since the event took place, and we still receive requests for training.
  • We partnered with as many state agencies as we could to disseminate information. I have done several radio and print interviews. Cox Communications and LPB have run PSA’s on all of their affiliates throughout the state.
  • There were billboards on our highways, stickers with the national hotline on the backs of restroom stall doors, and very recently we have partnered with the trucking associations to have posters, bumper stickers, and pamphlets on our trucks and in truck stops.

My work in this area has grown at a rate I could not have predicted. But, the need for action in Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness is immediate and urgent. You can find information about our work in the past and organizations in your area you can help on our website here and information about NCPHST here.

I think of this verse from Isaiah 61:1-2, when I need encouragement to continue this sometimes difficult work. “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.”

I fully intend to continue working on this issue after our time in the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion is done. I hope you will join me in this fight – even if just in prayer.

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FEATURE

 Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director,
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is a taboo topic that many do not care to discuss; however, with approximately five child deaths reported every day, we should recognize that this epidemic is taking over our communities and should be prepared to respond appropriately. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), as amended and reauthorized by the CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010, defines child abuse and neglect as, at a minimum, “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation (including sexual abuse as determined under section 111), or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm” (42 U.S.C. 5101 note, § 3).

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When someone hears the term “child abuse,” they most commonly associate it with physical abuse; however, there are four types of abuse to include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and child neglect. Physical abuse is the deliberate intention to inflict pain. Wounds, bruises, burns, fractures, and sore muscles are signs of physical abuse, but abuse can also result from severe acts of discipline. Emotional abuse is behaviors toward the child that cause mental anguish (also called psychological abuse). Examples of emotional abuse are shouting often at the child, withholding kindness or affection, extended periods of silence, and harsh jokes at the expense of the child.

Child neglect is the most common type of child abuse and can be defined as parents or caregivers who are continually unavailable for the child. Neglect occurs even if the parent is physically present but unavailable or refuses to care for the child or meet their needs. Sexual abuse is defined as touching a child in a sexual manner, or having sexual relations with the child is sexual abuse and includes any behavior toward the child for sexual stimulation. This type of abuse is characterized by fondling, forced sexual acts, and indecent physical exposure. In the United States, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday.

Though these stats are alarming, we are so thankful to have 15 Children’s Advocacy Centers in the state of Louisiana to assist child victims of abuse. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) are community-based, child-friendly, and trauma-informed organizations that coordinate a multidisciplinary response to child maltreatment allegations. CACs deliver a best practice model that brings together child protective services investigators, law enforcement, forensic interviewers, prosecutors, family advocates, and medical and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers. Simply put, CACs are a safe haven for child victims and their non-offending caregivers as they assist them on their road to healing and justice. The Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC) is the state association dedicated to supporting each CAC and ensuring that every victim of child abuse in Louisiana has access to the services they need to experience justice and healing.

During April, you will find blue pinwheel gardens planted throughout the community. In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America introduced the blue pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the great childhood that every child deserves and the role we all play in providing a loving and supportive environment for the children in our lives. You will also hear of various activities such as social media campaigns, proclamation ceremonies, prevention education sessions, and more! To find a Child Abuse Prevention Month event near you, please visit the LACAC Facebook page, www.facebook/lacacs, or our website at www.lacacs.org.

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchel
Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

 

ABOUT LACAC
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers’ mission is to promote and support Children’s Advocacy Centers in providing a coordinated multidisciplinary response to child victims of abuse through development, training and advocacy.

FEATURE

Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director,
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

LFF_Blog_April2023_Feature

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is a taboo topic that many do not care to discuss; however, with approximately five child deaths reported every day, we should recognize that this epidemic is taking over our communities and should be prepared to respond appropriately. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), as amended and reauthorized by the CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010, defines child abuse and neglect as, at a minimum, “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation (including sexual abuse as determined under section 111), or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm” (42 U.S.C. 5101 note, § 3).

When someone hears the term “child abuse,” they most commonly associate it with physical abuse; however, there are four types of abuse to include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and child neglect. Physical abuse is the deliberate intention to inflict pain. Wounds, bruises, burns, fractures, and sore muscles are signs of physical abuse, but abuse can also result from severe acts of discipline. Emotional abuse is behaviors toward the child that cause mental anguish (also called psychological abuse). Examples of emotional abuse are shouting often at the child, withholding kindness or affection, extended periods of silence, and harsh jokes at the expense of the child.

Child neglect is the most common type of child abuse and can be defined as parents or caregivers who are continually unavailable for the child. Neglect occurs even if the parent is physically present but unavailable or refuses to care for the child or meet their needs. Sexual abuse is defined as touching a child in a sexual manner, or having sexual relations with the child is sexual abuse and includes any behavior toward the child for sexual stimulation. This type of abuse is characterized by fondling, forced sexual acts, and indecent physical exposure. In the United States, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday.

Though these stats are alarming, we are so thankful to have 15 Children’s Advocacy Centers in the state of Louisiana to assist child victims of abuse. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) are community-based, child-friendly, and trauma-informed organizations that coordinate a multidisciplinary response to child maltreatment allegations. CACs deliver a best practice model that brings together child protective services investigators, law enforcement, forensic interviewers, prosecutors, family advocates, and medical and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers. Simply put, CACs are a safe haven for child victims and their non-offending caregivers as they assist them on their road to healing and justice. The Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC) is the state association dedicated to supporting each CAC and ensuring that every victim of child abuse in Louisiana has access to the services they need to experience justice and healing.

During April, you will find blue pinwheel gardens planted throughout the community. In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America introduced the blue pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the great childhood that every child deserves and the role we all play in providing a loving and supportive environment for the children in our lives. You will also hear of various activities such as social media campaigns, proclamation ceremonies, prevention education sessions, and more! To find a Child Abuse Prevention Month event near you, please visit the LACAC Facebook page, www.facebook/lacacs, or our website at www.lacacs.org.

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell
Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

 ABOUT LACAC
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers’ mission is to promote and support Children’s Advocacy Centers in providing a coordinated multidisciplinary response to child victims of abuse through development, training and advocacy.

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LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

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Keep Calm and Finish Strong

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Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month

Louisiana Foster's
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The Free Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Louisiana

Human Trafficking

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

This year we celebrate 60 years of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion!
These photos were taken at its groundbreaking in 1962.

Photos courtesy of Louisiana State Library Archives

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Visit the Governor's Mansion Store
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Women’s Health

THE BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING

by Ashley Farge, MD, IBCLC

LSUHSC School of Medicine
New Orleans, LA
Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics
LA AAP Chapter Breastfeeding Coordinator

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Birth is an exciting time for parents and full of emotion, but it is also full of change and new decisions. One decision parents may ponder is determining the best way to feed the baby. Over 80% of women in the United States initiate breastfeeding in the hospital after delivery. Breastfeeding or expressed breast milk feeding, although challenging at times, has abundant benefits for both mothers and babies.

The benefits of breastfeeding or giving expressed breast milk are vast and have both short- and long-term impacts. One of the most fascinating things about breast milk is that it constantly changes to provide the baby with exactly what they need. In addition, breast milk is full of antibodies from the mother’s immune system that protect the infant from illnesses, including ear infections, diarrhea, lower respiratory tract infections, and even everyday colds that the baby is exposed to at home and daycare. This effect is additive; the longer infants receive breastmilk, the lower their infection risk. Fewer infections not only mean a healthy baby but, for working mothers and families, fewer missed work days. Receiving any amount of breast milk is also protective against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the unexplained death of an otherwise well infant that is usually related to sleep. Some benefits last well beyond when a baby feeds at the breast or receives expressed breastmilk and stays with the child throughout their lifetime. These include a lower risk of asthma, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, obesity, and even leukemia.

Breastfeeding not only benefits infants; there are also many wonderful benefits for mothers. It causes the release of oxytocin in a woman’s brain. This amazing hormone, known as the love hormone, promotes bonding between mothers and their babies. Some studies show that, for some women, this can be protective against post-partum depression. This same hormone also causes uterine contractions while breastfeeding, which can shorten the time of normal vaginal bleeding post-partum. Long-term benefits of breastfeeding for women include a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type two diabetes. Like infants, the longer the duration of breastfeeding, the lower the risk.

Convenience is another great benefit of breastfeeding. A mother can breastfeed anytime, anywhere, at no cost, and the milk is always at the perfect temperature. Supplies like electric breast pumps, which are used to express breast milk, are covered by insurance and can be obtained with paperwork and some assistance from a doctor. In addition, breast pumps are often beneficial for working mothers who desire to continue expressing milk for their babies once they return to work.

Because of these numerous benefits and their additive effects, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastmilk feeding for the first six months and continued breastmilk feeding for two years or longer as mother and baby desire. It is well-recognized that this is challenging, especially for first-time mothers. Some early challenges are difficulty with latch, pain, or concern about having enough milk, but these can usually be remedied with assistance from lactation specialists. For some women, the support to continue breastfeeding can be a challenge. Many birth hospitals and community organizations have free groups to provide peer-to-peer support and education for breastfeeding mothers. What women need to realize is that these trials are common and expected. If mothers can stick with it for the first few weeks, many of these challenges can be overcome and managed, and they will see a beautiful relationship blossoming with their babies. This breastfeeding relationship not only more closely bonds mother and baby, but it sets them both on a path for a healthier future. 

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People of
Louisiana

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Jordyn Vicknair <br> SCHOOLS

Jordyn Vicknair
SCHOOLS

Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal<br> MILITARY

Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal
MILITARY

SCHOOLS

Jordyn Vicknair

SCHOOLS
MILITARY

Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal

MILITARY

RECIPE

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

Indulge in a Taste of Louisiana with this fresh strawberry pound cake recipe! 

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Memorable Verse

April 2023

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THE FIRST DOGS

April 2023

It’s a great day to stop and smell the roses!

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MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

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MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Delery has lived there all of her life except during undergraduate school and a brief stint in Seattle, WA. She is a mother to four boys, ranging in ages from 21 to 16, and they are the heart and soul of her life.

Delery earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and Master’s Degree from Louisiana State University. She completed a fellowship at Loyola University, New Orleans Institute of Politics, and currently attends Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy. Her volunteer work has mostly evolved from issues that have affected her personally. Actively engaged in disability rights advocacy, Delery has testified numerous times in the Louisiana Legislature regarding issues that affect persons with developmental disabilities. She served as the chair of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, worked for seven years directing regional advocacy efforts and is a graduate of Louisiana’s Partners In Policymaking.

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People of Louisiana – Military (March 2023)

 

Vietnam War 50th
Anniversary Commemoration

Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs

Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs,
EBR Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and Mayor’s Advisory Council on Veterans Affairs to Host Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration

 

BATON ROUGE, La.—The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and the Mayor’s Advisory Council on Veterans Affairs welcome all Vietnam veterans, their families, and veteran supporters to attend the statewide Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration honoring Louisiana’s Vietnam veterans on Wednesday, March 29, Vietnam War Veterans Day, at 10 a.m. at the Raising Cane’s River Center.

“As a Vietnam veteran who served two combat tours, I know what it felt like to not be welcomed home,” said LDVA Secretary Joey Strickland, COL (USA Retired). “As Louisiana’s Secretary of Veterans Affairs, I am proud to host this event to honor Louisiana’s more than 85,000 Vietnam era veterans, of which 280 live in our five state-run veterans’ homes, and to officially welcome them home. We are also grateful for the support of the Vietnam Veterans of America Louisiana State Council and their work to honor our Vietnam veterans.”

“Veterans represent about 10% of our residents in East Baton Rouge Parish and it is imperative we honor and advocate for those who served our country,” said Mayor Broome. “We are privileged to still have many Vietnam War veterans among us and must take the time to recognize their sacrifice in one of the most significant conflicts of our history.”

Raising Cane’s River Center doors open at 9 a.m. Guests will have time before the 10 a.m. ceremony to view exhibits of Vietnam memorabilia and browse resource booths. Staff from LSU’s T. Harry Williams Center for Oral History will be on hand to discuss and conduct oral histories of veterans. The ceremony will include reflections of Vietnam and recognition of service members from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard as well as a presentation of a commemorative challenge coin to all Vietnam veterans. At the conclusion of the ceremony, lunch will be served. Guests will also enjoy live, 1960s music before and after the ceremony.

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. RSVP as soon as possible via Eventbrite at bit.ly/VietnamWar50th, email at veteran@la.gov or phone at 225.276.8626. Event parking is available in both the East and West parking garages on St. Louis Street for a fee of $10 payable by card only. A drop off location for those who need closer access to the venue is in the St. Louis Plaza Circle off St. Louis Street. The Raising Cane’s River Center does not allow any firearms or knives on the premises, and it is a clear bag venue. Allowable bags include clear totes no larger than 12”x6”x12”; plastic zip top bags no large than one gallon; small clutch purse no larger than 5”x7”; and medical items as related to a medical condition. For more information about the clear bag policy, visit https://raisingcanesrivercenter.com/clear-bag-policy.

The Vietnam War was a long, costly, and divisive conflict that pitted the communist government of North Vietnam against South Vietnam and its principal ally, the United States. Nearly three million Americans served in uniform in Vietnam, and more than three million people, including more than 58,000 Americans, were killed in the war. More than half of the dead were Vietnamese civilians. One out of every 10 Americans who served in Vietnam was a casualty, while more than 1,600 still remain missing or unrecoverable.

 

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People of Louisiana – Schools (March 2023)

 

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TAMELA PHILLIPS

DeSoto Parish
North DeSoto High School
2023 High School Principal of the Year 

Making the Most of High School Coursework

The Plan and the Role Players

 

 
 
 
 
 

TAMELA PHILLIPS

Making the Most of High School Coursework
The Plan and the Role Players

What an exciting time of year. Schools have wrapped up their fall semester and are ready to “spring” into action for the second. Many people see the spring semester as an ending to the school year. However, for educators, it marks a time when we know preparation for the next year must begin. One of the most important events for high schools across our state this time of year is the discussions we start with students and parents about the coursework for the following year. There are so many options for students in today’s society. For this reason, it is very important for:

  • schools to do their best to provide as many different opportunities to prepare students for postsecondary education or the workplace and to communicate these offerings to students and parents, 
  • parents to engage in intentional conversation with students, counselors, and teachers about these opportunities and
  • students to be willing to challenge themselves, set goals, and work to achieve them.

WE ALL have a role in the success of our students now and for their future. WE ALL can have an impact. 

The State of Louisiana has different pathways for students that provide choices in their high school coursework and preparation for life after high school. The state also provides many resources for support, like the High School Planning Guidebook. Whether a child chooses to go to college, vocational school, or straight into the workforce or the military, there is much Louisiana has done to build opportunities for students. In fact, there are so many options, it is oftentimes impossible for schools to offer everything. For that reason, schools must understand their student and community’s needs and build programs best suited for their population.

For example, in a larger school with access to industry, there are many opportunities for industry-based certifications such as welding, electrical, medical assistant, business, health and careers, and many others. Many of these certifications prepare students to be employable right out of high school. There are also many opportunities for schools to offer advanced options for student coursework, such as advanced placement courses, dual enrollment, Internships, CLEP, and more. These options give students a step ahead in college and help prepare them to graduate college early or begin a master’s program. This becomes more difficult for our smaller schools in more rural areas. With limited personnel, offering multiple options becomes more of a challenge. 

Schools must get creative and learn to think outside the box. While we may have to narrow our focus and have fewer options, as long as those options are the best for your student population, you are doing the best for your students. Schools might also try innovative strategies like partnering schools; have one offer pathways or courses in one content and another school in others. Students can then travel from school to school, and their opportunities could be doubled. Since COVID, schools are much more equipped to offer virtual options as well. This opens other doors for partnering; you do not necessarily have to be “neighboring.” 

Once schools are prepared to provide multiple student offerings, they must begin communicating them to students and parents. The struggle here usually is with parents as we have direct access to students daily but not to our parents. We must be intentional with our communication and do so in multiple ways. Most importantly, we must ensure parents know that conversations are beginning to happen around scheduling for next year and provide opportunities to include parents in these conversations.

For our parents out there, we encourage you to be aware and ask questions this time of year about plans for your child’s coursework next year. Your child’s counselor must be one of “your best friends.” Keep open lines of communication with the school and let them know you want to be a part of your child’s education. When schools open their doors for sessions with counselors, open houses, parent-teacher conferences, expos, or other academic events, BE THERE. Know what is going on at your child’s school. While some schools are limited in what they can offer, your role should be to know what those offerings are and what will fit your child’s needs. I also want to remind you that these discussions need to start happening in the spring. Schools build their schedules around the course requests of students, and you want your child’s requests to be what is best for them.

Last, but most importantly, falls the responsibility of the student. It does not matter what the school offers and how many conversations are had around “best fit” coursework if the student is unwilling to challenge themself and work hard. High school is – and should – be a fun time and a time to make memories. However, it is one of the last steps in preparation for life; academics must come first. So, if you are a student reading this, I encourage you to be brave!! 

Do not shy away from the “difficult” classes because you do not want high school to “be hard.” Do not limit yourself! Take every opportunity your high school has to offer you a certification, college credit, or another learning opportunity. Be aware and a productive part of your future.  

The old adage is, “It takes a village,” which is so true. We must understand our role if we genuinely want what is best for our high school graduates. And remember that while there may not always be a “perfect fit,” there is always a “best fit.” The most important thing to remember is we all have a role and must participate.

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Louisiana Fosters – My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

 

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My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

 

My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

On March 1, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), along with the Pelican Center for Children and Families and Casey Family Programs, joined judicial and community partners to launch the expansion of My Community Cares (MCC) statewide.

MCC is a community-driven, neighborhood approach to strengthening families and preventing child abuse and neglect in Louisiana. It gives local communities a voice in developing prevention strategies to keep children safe and out of foster care.  

“MCC is a way to trust communities to know what they need and share responsibility for child safety and overall well-being,” said DCFS Secretary Terri Ricks. “When communities share in decision-making and responsibilities, our children benefit.”

MCC program pilots started in Caddo, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, and Rapides Parishes, where more children were entering foster care. It will expand into all nine regions across the state into neighborhoods with high reports of abuse and neglect and a high rate of out-of-home placements.

Realizing DCFS cannot do prevention work alone, MCC calls on community partners to help families stabilize and become self-sufficient. The initiative brings together individuals with lived experience in the child welfare system, community members, judges, child advocates, attorneys, service providers, schools, businesses, emergency responders, healthcare providers, churches, and non-profit agencies to work alongside DCFS.

MCC also creates a unique partnership between the state, local communities, and the court system. Juvenile judges have praised MCC for assisting with their caseloads and reaching children and families before they become a part of the system. 

“The courtroom is not the place to help restore a broken family,” said Honorable John C. Davidson, 9th Judicial District Court, Rapides Parish. “My Community Cares allows us to engage the families upstream and meet them in their current position in life. The program allows us to ask what you need and how we can help you without telling our families what they need from our perspective. This work allows us to have honest conversations about the needs of our community and build relationships that help families thrive.”

If you are interested in more information about MCC, please email mcc@pelicancenter.org. 

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Pandemic-Related Extra SNAP Benefits Are Ending –
Contact 211 for Assistance

For the first time since 2020, Louisiana families will not receive pandemic-related extra benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to federal legislation that ended funding for the extra benefits. With SNAP COVID extra benefits ending, there are things families should do, such as reviewing their information and considering additional means of assistance. If a family is struggling because of the reduction in benefits, they can contact 211 to find out about food pantries and other food assistance sources in their area.

March Adoption Feature

LFF_Blog_March2023_Fosters_Adoption

Each month we feature children and teens available for adoption in Louisiana. We want to introduce you to John and Logan from the Baton Rouge Region for March.  

John is 11 years old. He enjoys school, and his favorite subject is Math. He likes outdoor activities, especially football. He also likes to read books and wear his cowboy boots! John is talkative and enjoys sharing his thoughts and engaging with others.

Logan is 6 years old and typically has a smile on his face. He enjoys running, playing outdoors, and riding his tricycle. He also likes sushi and hibachi restaurants and will eat almost everything (except bell peppers). Logan is learning new things and is making great strides in his development.

If you are considering adopting or fostering a child, take that first step by attending a free, virtual orientation session. For more information about becoming a foster/adoptive parent and the training available, visit our website. You can also call your regional office or email DCFS.HomeDevelopment@la.gov with your name and parish of residence for more information.

Visit the Louisiana Fosters Website

 

LFF_Blog_March2023_Fosters

Louisiana Fosters – My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

 

LFF_Blog_March2023_Fosters

My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

 

My Community Cares Initiative to Expand Statewide

On March 1, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), along with the Pelican Center for Children and Families and Casey Family Programs, joined judicial and community partners to launch the expansion of My Community Cares (MCC) statewide.

MCC is a community-driven, neighborhood approach to strengthening families and preventing child abuse and neglect in Louisiana. It gives local communities a voice in developing prevention strategies to keep children safe and out of foster care.  

“MCC is a way to trust communities to know what they need and share responsibility for child safety and overall well-being,” said DCFS Secretary Terri Ricks. “When communities share in decision-making and responsibilities, our children benefit.”

MCC program pilots started in Caddo, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, and Rapides Parishes, where more children were entering foster care. It will expand into all nine regions across the state into neighborhoods with high reports of abuse and neglect and a high rate of out-of-home placements.

Realizing DCFS cannot do prevention work alone, MCC calls on community partners to help families stabilize and become self-sufficient. The initiative brings together individuals with lived experience in the child welfare system, community members, judges, child advocates, attorneys, service providers, schools, businesses, emergency responders, healthcare providers, churches, and non-profit agencies to work alongside DCFS.

MCC also creates a unique partnership between the state, local communities, and the court system. Juvenile judges have praised MCC for assisting with their caseloads and reaching children and families before they become a part of the system. 

“The courtroom is not the place to help restore a broken family,” said Honorable John C. Davidson, 9th Judicial District Court, Rapides Parish. “My Community Cares allows us to engage the families upstream and meet them in their current position in life. The program allows us to ask what you need and how we can help you without telling our families what they need from our perspective. This work allows us to have honest conversations about the needs of our community and build relationships that help families thrive.”

If you are interested in more information about MCC, please email mcc@pelicancenter.org. 

LFF_Blog_Feb2023_SNAP

Pandemic-Related Extra SNAP Benefits Are Ending
– Contact 211 for Assistance

For the first time since 2020, Louisiana families will not receive pandemic-related extra benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to federal legislation that ended funding for the extra benefits. With SNAP COVID extra benefits ending, there are things families should do, such as reviewing their information and considering additional means of assistance. If a family is struggling because of the reduction in benefits, they can contact 211 to find out about food pantries and other food assistance sources in their area.

March Adoption Feature

LFF_Blog_March2023_Fosters_Adoption

Each month we feature children and teens available for adoption in Louisiana. We want to introduce you to John and Logan from the Baton Rouge Region for March.  

John is 11 years old. He enjoys school, and his favorite subject is Math. He likes outdoor activities, especially football. He also likes to read books and wear his cowboy boots! John is talkative and enjoys sharing his thoughts and engaging with others.

Logan is 6 years old and typically has a smile on his face. He enjoys running, playing outdoors, and riding his tricycle. He also likes sushi and hibachi restaurants and will eat almost everything (except bell peppers). Logan is learning new things and is making great strides in his development.

If you are considering adopting or fostering a child, take that first step by attending a free, virtual orientation session. For more information about becoming a foster/adoptive parent and the training available, visit our website. You can also call your regional office or email DCFS.HomeDevelopment@la.gov with your name and parish of residence for more information.

Visit the Louisiana Fosters Website

 

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Teach MAM – Celebrating Women & Music

 

 

 

 

 

 

Teach MAM

 

Teach MAM: An Exciting Partnership to Strengthen Arts Education Across Louisiana

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TEACH MAM

Celebrating Women and Music

Written by Annelise Cassar Tedesco

Teach MAM Music Ambassador

March is Women’s History Month and Music in Our Schools Month. How appropriate to collaboratively celebrate the importance of music in school programs while we also elevate the unequivocal contributions of women. The number of women who have made incredible contributions to the acceleration of music composition, music performance, and music education and then used their voices to raise awareness, elevate the voices of others, and impact society is certainly something to celebrate. 

In honor of this union of accomplishment, I asked some of my high school students to share their thoughts on who, in their estimation, was a woman who has made history through their musical accomplishments and contributions. Here are just a few of the amazing women they chose to celebrate. 

“Florence Price was an American classical composer, pianist, organist and music teacher. She composed over 300 works and is considered the first African-American woman to be recognized as a symphonic composer, and the first to have a composition played by a major orchestra.”
-Emma Mason

“I am very impressed by Clara Schumann. She was a child prodigy, composer, performer, and teacher. She was considered one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era, and performed for over 61 years. As a result of her contributions, she changed the format of the piano recital by reducing the importance of purely virtuosic works. In 1838 she was honored by the Austrian court and elected to the prestigious society of the friends of music in Vienna.”
-Alvaro Hernandez

“I think Ella Fitzgerald should be celebrated. I learned a great deal about her and her performances during Black History Month. She was a civil rights activist and was dubbed the queen of jazz. She was also the first African-American woman to win a Grammy. She also wrote several of her own songs and composed for other performers as well.” 
-Emma Abadie 

“Madonna is known for pushing boundaries in her performance and style. She is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality, and as a result, I believe her name belongs among those whom we celebrate.”
-Carmen Tonry

“Audra Macdonald has won six Tony awards, and she was the first person to win a tony in all four acting categories. She is celebrated as a pioneer for racial equity and inclusion across artistic avenues, on stage and on screen. She, along with a coalition of professionals from across the theatre industry, launched Black Theatre United, an organization whose mission is to inspire reform and combat systemic racism within the theatre community and throughout the nation.”
-Ava Volante

“Amy Beach was the first successful American female composer of large scale art music. In 1896, the Boston Symphony Orchestra premiered her Gaelic Symphony, which was the first symphony composed and published by an American woman.”  
-Laina Eiserloh

“Ma Rainey was dubbed the queen of blues for her deep voice and mesmerizing stage presence. She also sang of women’s struggles and the struggles of African Americans. She has used her voice to elevate the voices of others.” 
-DJ Jones

“My mom, Dr. Kristen Bauer Marchiafava, is one of my biggest inspirations. She is a professional soprano and a college voice professor at Southeastern Louisiana University. She has taught countless students, both locally and internationally, and she shares her time to help students of all ages grow into stronger singers. She does all of this while being an amazing mom. I am very grateful for her and all my music teachers, for where would we be without our teachers?”
-Daniel Marchiafava

“I would like to celebrate Louisiana’s First Lady. She is a musician and a music teacher who shared her love for the arts with her family, students, and community. She is now a passionate advocate for students of all backgrounds. She believes it is essential to educate the whole child, and that arts enrichment is a crucial component of this plan. She leads this effort through the Louisiana First Foundation and her Teach MAM initiative.” 
-Zoey Wolfe

As I reflect on the words of my students and their celebration of just a few of the many great female artists of our time, I would like to turn the spotlight on them, the next generation of great artists. They are amazing game changers, and I know they will make extraordinary contributions to society and the arts. 

Do you know any women who are making history in the arts? Join us in helping to celebrate their contributions and elevate their voices. Show your support by attending one of the many spring concerts, festivals, or musical theatre productions hosted by music educators, composers, and performers, or give a shout-out to these champions for artistic excellence on social media and tag them with #MusicGameChanger

teachmam_ambassador_annelise_tedesco

About Annelise Cassar Tedesco

Annelise Cassar Tedesco is Louisiana’s 2022 Teacher of the Year and the Teach MAM Music Ambassador for First Lady Donna Edwards’s Louisiana First Foundation. She also serves as Music Director for The Performing Arts Academy and CHS Voices in St. Bernard Parish Public School District. 

Join the conversation and follow Annelise on social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annelisecassartedesco/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnneliseCassar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnneliseCassarTedesco
Website: https://www.twosistersoneart.com/

 

LFF_Blog_March2023_AHT

Anti-Human Trafficking: Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers Continues Partnership with the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention

 

Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers Continues Partnership with the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention

 



 

 

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Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers Continues Partnership with the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention

Written by Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Interim Executive Director of the
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers

The Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC) and the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention have joined forces due to the great demand for services for human trafficking victims in our state. Through this continuing partnership, more than 700 clients have been served since the beginning of the supporting grant in 2020!

We are excited to continue our partnership with the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention under the Louisiana Child and Youth Trafficking Initiative-Accessibility Initiative (LCYTC-AI). The primary focus of this project is to create an accessible statewide care coordination model for small children and youth victims of human trafficking. This project will ensure that all children in Louisiana, regardless of their location or identity, have access to a comprehensive continuum of care.

Currently, ten Regional Care Coordinators (RCC) are deployed at various Children’s Advocacy Centers (CAC) across the state. With the implementation of Act 662, which will continue to sustain the LCYTC project, the number of Regional Care Coordinators will increase to nineteen. This increase ensures that trafficked children and youth have access to high-quality, coordinated care. Our partnership with the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention is invaluable as it has expanded services to trafficked youth, fostered synergy among multidisciplinary team members, and further expands prevention education/outreach to rural and metropolitan areas across the state. Through this grant, LACAC has expanded strategic partnerships with the Department of Family Services (DCFS), Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ), and Families in Need of Services (FINS) to better serve high-risk and trafficked youth. We have made tremendous progress in delivering service to those in need and look forward to continuing our efforts to end trafficking in Louisiana.

For more information about the LCYTC-AI Project or to learn more about Coordinators in your area, please visit lacacs.org.

ABOUT Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell
Krystle Mitchell is the Interim Executive Director of the Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers. In her role, Krystle oversees and directs the daily operations and strategic development of the Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC). She is responsible for carrying out the mission and goals of LACAC and ensuring the successful execution of all programs, policies, and procedures. In addition, she works with the Board, staff, membership, and other vital constituents to mobilize and strengthen the awareness of child abuse and to provide a unified voice to elevate the collective priorities for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CAC).

Krystle has over a decade of experience working with children and families. Of those experiences, the most notable are her time in the non-profit sector advocating for children and families, providing resources throughout the community, and assisting others on their road to justice and healing. Krystle is a native of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and married to Minister Horace Mitchell, Jr. She walks daily with her God-given purpose of helping and uplifting others in their fight against interpersonal violence.

 

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