Welcome to The Children’s Assessment Center’s “Community Connections” page, where we proudly shine a spotlight on the heartwarming stories and incredible impact of our dedicated supporters. At the heart of our mission to Protect, Heal, and Prevent, these partners stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective compassion.
Please help us congratulate our 2024 Cherish the Child Honoree, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg.
For the past 20 years, The CAC Foundation has presented the Cherish the Child Award each year to a select group of exceptional supporters who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to our mission.
We were privileged to honor Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg for her unwavering dedication to our mission. DA Ogg’s commitment, along with the tireless efforts of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office (HCDAO), has been crucial in advancing The CAC’s mission and transforming our community.
Since 1992, the HCDAO has been a cornerstone partner, signing the Interagency Agreement as one of our first formal allies. Through generous support, the HCDAO has significantly contributed to the development of our facility, supported our capital campaign, enhanced our training programs, and backed numerous community events.
One of the most impactful ways DA Ogg and her office have supported us is through the advancement of our Forensic Interviewing program. Forensic Interviews are designed to assist children aged 3 to 17 who may have experienced child sexual abuse. Interviews are conducted in a child-friendly setting with a trauma-informed approach, allowing children to share their stories only once and minimizing the risk of re-traumatization. These interviews are crucial, as they provide critical evidence for our partners’ criminal and civil investigations. In 2023 alone, The CAC conducted 3,375 forensic interviews. For many of these children, it is their first opportunity to fully disclose their abuse, marking a significant step in their healing journey. Ensuring these interviews are conducted with the utmost care and quality is essential to providing the support and justice these children deserve.
However, the technology used for these interviews was funded almost a decade ago. Over time, equipment faces wear and tear, leading to degradation that risks the quality of the interviews. Outdated technology increases the likelihood of malfunctions or data loss, potentially compromising the integrity of these crucial recordings. Recognizing this urgent need, DA Ogg and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office provided critical funding to update our forensic interviewing system. This generous gift will ensure The CAC can safeguard our children’s disclosures with the highest quality of care and support their fight for justice.
It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we celebrate the Cherish the Child Award recipient, DA Ogg, and recognize her passionate staff: Executive Bureau Chief Denise Oncken, the Crimes Against Children Division and the Asset Forfeiture Division.
2024 Cherish the Child Award Reception Photos
