CHANGING THE CONVERSATION AROUND THE ISSUE OF ABUSE

In pursuit of their mission to help and heal child victims and their families who have been traumatized by abuse, the Children’s Advocacy Center Foundation produced the following video series which was initially launched on Instagram and Facebook during the fall of 2020. The goal of the #VegasShines online video series is to promote awareness and to change the conversation around the issue of abuse.

Cheryl Cooley

The Southern Nevada Children’s Advocacy Center provides a child-friendly safe environment where children feel supported in telling their stories of neglect and abuse.

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Allene | Parent, Survivor, & Advocate

Please meet Allene. As a parent, survivor and advocate, Allene urges other parents to listen to their children and to not as “why?”

  • 73% of child sexual abuse victims do not disclose abuse for a year or more.

  • Most people don’t know what to do.

  • Advocate for your child.

Felicia | At Risk Youth Support & Intake Specialist

As a member of the SNCAC’s team of dedicated professionals, Felicia talks about her role in supporting sex-trafficked youth.

  • Children will often “shut down” and refuse to tell more if you respond emotionally or negatively.

  • More than 75% of children who are being sexually exploited, were once sex abuse victims.

  • Youth who experienced sexual abuse are 28 times more likely to be arrested for prostitution.

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Lexi | Abuse Survivor

Please meet Lexi, she is a survivor of child sex abuse. As Lexi tells her story, she encourages victims to find someone to listen to them, and to understand that it is not their fault!

  • 90% of victims are abused by a family member or someone they know and trust.

  • Survivors often experience guilt, shame and self-blame.

  • The CAC offers effective group therapy with people that will listen to help survivors cope.

Gisele | Abuse Survivor

Please meet Gisele, she is a survivor of child sex abuse. As Gisele shares her story, she talks about the importance of seeking mental health therapy.

  • About 35% of victims are 11 years old or younger.

  • Prolonged sexual abuse can negatively affect victims’ self-esteem and view of sex.

  • The CAC can be a healthy outlet for survivors to release and heal their trauma.

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Melissa | Mental Health Services Provider

Please meet Melissa as she talks about the importance of mental health therapy in helping sex abuse victims overcome their trauma. Melissa also talks about the 3 stages of growth: 1) Victim; 2) Survivor; and, 3) Thriver.

  • An estimated 39 million survivors of childhood sexual abuse live in America today.

  • Mental Health Providers use reliable methods to help victims through the disclosure and therapy process.

  • 3 stages of Growth: Victim, Survivor, Thriver