Prince William County Child Advocacy Center Earns National Accreditation

The Prince William County Child Advocacy Center, or CAC, has received full national accreditation from the National Children’s Alliance, recognizing the county’s commitment to trauma-informed, child-focused services for victims of abuse. 

Established in 2021 and housed in its permanent facility since 2022, the CAC’s development was a key objective in the county’s 2021–2024 Strategic Plan. 

Achieving national accreditation is no small feat. The process typically spans five years, yet the county’s CAC earned full accreditation in just three, a rare accomplishment for a center undergoing first-time review. The center submitted an extensive 1,200-page application and underwent a comprehensive site review, including evaluation of the center’s operations, multidisciplinary team standards and outcomes. National reviewers routinely place new centers in pending status to allow time for corrections and adjustments; however, the county’s CAC received full approval on its first attempt with no deficiencies or pending items. 

The CAC’s national accreditation ensures that child abuse victims and their families are supported through a coordinated, compassionate system that meets the highest standards of care and justice. Accreditation validates that children are treated through a trauma-focused lens, multidisciplinary collaboration is prioritized, and services are provided consistently and effectively across agencies. 

“This achievement directly impacts the children and families we serve,” said Director of Social Services Phyllis Jennings-Holt. “It ensures that every child who comes through our doors receives care that is rooted in evidence-based practice and centered on their well-being. Families have an ally and a voice, and no one falls through the cracks.” 

The CAC provides a safe space where child victims can share their experiences with trained forensic interviewers, receive trauma-focused therapy and access advocacy and support services. Non-offending caregivers are also supported throughout the process. The model helps reduce re-traumatization, improves coordination among law enforcement, legal professionals and social services, and contributes to better case outcomes, including increased prosecution rates of offenders. 

“Accreditation means families can trust that we’re following the nation’s best practices, every day, in every case,” said Clyte Portis, Program Manager of the CAC. “Children are heard, empowered and supported on their path to healing. This is a promise we take seriously.” 

“Prince William County is deeply committed to delivering the highest standard of care for children and families impacted by abuse,” said County Executive Chris Shorter. “National accreditation of the Child Advocacy Center represents not just the excellence of our team, but the power of collaboration across our government and community partners. This milestone will have a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of our residents.” 

With accreditation now secured, the CAC is positioned to further expand services, strengthen partnerships and access additional funding and training opportunities, all of which will directly benefit children and families across the county. 

“This is not the finish line, it’s a foundation for continued growth and improvement,” Portis said. “We are honored to serve our community in this way and will keep striving to provide the best possible care and support for every child who needs us.” 

For more information about the CAC, visit pwcva.gov/cac.