In the heart of Lebanon, the Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center, stands as a beacon of hope for families facing some of life’s darkest moments.The Center carries a powerful mission to give children a safe place to be heard, believed, and supported.

The center’s name honors Sylvia Likens, a 16-year-old Indiana girl whose horrific abuse and murder in 1965 shocked the nation and spurred reforms in child welfare laws. For the children who walk through its doors today, the center exists to make sure that history is never repeated.

When a child discloses abuse or an abuse is reported to authorities, the legal process can be overwhelming. Sylvia’s CAC provides a setting where children are interviewed just ONCE, by a specially trained forensic interviewer, rather than repeating their trauma to police officers, social workers, or attorneys. These forensic interviews are carefully structured with one person to be in a secure, comforting setting for the child. They allow investigators from law enforcement, the Department of Child Services, and the Prosecutor’s Office to observe behind one-way glass without subjecting the child to multiple retellings. The child’s responses are recorded on discreet cameras for use by investigators.

“At Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center, every forensic interview is more than evidence—it’s a child’s story told in a way that is both legally sound and deeply respectful of their trauma, said Kassie Frazier, Executive Director. “A strong, defensible interview not only upholds justice in the courtroom but also opens the door to healing for the child. From the very first disclosure through the long, often frightening court process, Sylvia’s staff walks beside each child, ensuring they feel supported, believed, and never alone.” 

Beyond the interviews, the center offers free victim advocacy, guiding families through court proceedings, connecting them with mental health providers, and ensuring they have access to medical care. What is especially important to note is referrals come only from law enforcement or child protection services, ensuring that families in crisis get immediate and coordinated help. Because Sylvia’s CAC operates with law enforcement, child services, prosecutors, medical professionals, and therapists, it ensures that no child falls through the cracks, and that investigations move forward in a way that protects the child’s well-being.

While the center responds to abuse cases, it also works to prevent abuse before it starts. Through “body safety” programs in local schools, Sylvia’s CAC teaches children how to recognize unsafe situations and empowers them to speak up.

Sylvia’s CAC is a non-profit and relies on a combination of grants, donations, and public funding. But, like many non-profits, the center faces financial challenges as demand grows. As Boone County continues to grow, Sylvia’s CAC anticipates serving more children in the years ahead. The organization hosts annual events, such as breakfasts and golf outings to raise funds. 

Leaders hope to expand prevention programs, strengthen partnerships with schools and community organizations, and increase public awareness about abuse.The center’s staff and volunteers stress that protecting children is a community responsibility. You can support Sylvia’s CAC in several ways: