The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center (Collier CAC) received a grant from Arthrex Inc. to help expand the nonprofit organization’s essential programs that support children and families affected by abuse in Collier County.

The grant supports trauma-focused therapy, forensic interviews and advocacy services. All programs are provided at no cost to those served.

“We are deeply grateful to Arthrex Inc. for supporting our commitment to helping children find safety, healing and hope,” said Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “This grant allows us to extend our reach and ensure children and families in our community receive timely, compassionate care.”

Through the Arthrex Charitable Giving Program, Arthrex supports more than 100 public charities in Florida, South Carolina and California. Annual donations assist local community organizations focused on education, health and wellness.

More than 2,140 reports of child abuse and neglect were filed in Collier County in 2024. During that same year, Collier CAC provided direct services to 1,402 children and family members, with 62% of the children served under the age of 12.

Collier CAC’s Childhood Trauma Reduction Initiative addresses the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress that place children at extreme risk for depression, chronic illness, substance abuse and poor life outcomes. Through evidence-based interventions such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed parenting and coordinated advocacy, Collier CAC helps children build resilience and reclaim their futures.

To learn more about how to support Collier CAC, visit caccollier.org/ways-to-give.

About the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County 

The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the first point of care for children in Collier County when abuse is suspected. Since 1986, Collier CAC has provided forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapy, family advocacy and parent education in one child-centered setting, reducing what could be up to six separate agency visits to a single coordinated response.

Collier CAC is the only organization in Collier County legally authorized to perform forensic medical exams for children under 12 and to deliver medical, court advocacy and therapeutic services under one roof. All services are provided free of charge, removing financial barriers so families can access support regardless of circumstance.

While the organization partners closely with the Department of Children and Families, law enforcement, the State Attorney’s Office and Collier County Public Schools, it is not a government agency. Collier CAC relies on community support to sustain and expand its work, as abuse occurs in every zip code.

To learn more about how Collier CAC is committed to helping children find safety, healing and hope, visit caccollier.org.