The Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse (CPCA) is a private nonprofit organization committed to reducing child maltreatment since 1973.
Annually, the organization provides services to more than 15,000 abused and at-risk children and offers support and educational services to over 3,000 adults. It is the sole agency in Dutchess County offering sexual abuse prevention training. Its support services aim to assist abused children and educate adults to prevent future abuse.
Funding is derived from various public and private sources, with the organization primarily relying on individual and corporate donations for unrestricted support. It is recognized as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Map/Directions/Reviews
Child Abuse Prevention Center Programs
The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) serves as a family-friendly space where alleged victims of sexual or severe physical abuse can disclose their experiences. Trained staff at the CAC conduct forensic interviews with children at CPCA to ensure a secure environment for disclosures. The CAC team comprises law enforcement officials, CPS workers, a crime victim advocate, and program coordinators.
The Supportive Parenting Program provides intensive case management through weekly home visits, supervised visitation, and parenting classes tailored for parents with developmental disabilities. The program’s objectives include teaching parenting skills, fostering socialization and peer support, and assisting families in meeting their children’s needs. Case managers work collaboratively with other service providers to optimize support.
The Sexual Abuse Prevention Program, also known as the Personal Safety Program, delivers free in-school presentations for Dutchess County students from Pre-K to 5th grade. These age-appropriate lessons educate children on how to speak out against abuse and recognize unsafe situations. The program functions as a preparatory measure, akin to fire drills, to help students understand how to protect themselves.
Mandatory Reporter Training sessions, titled “Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect,” are obligatory for specific professionals within New York State. These sessions impart vital information necessary for fulfilling mandated reporting responsibilities.
The organization also hosts ongoing virtual community workshops titled “Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse,” designed to empower the community to identify signs of abuse, understand proper reporting procedures, and learn about protections available for reporters.
Share this!
102125