The Children's Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County (CAC) was founded in 1989 as a grassroots effort to assist child victims of sexual assault and their families who were involved in child abuse investigations. Over the years, the CAC developed a range of investigative, advocacy, medical and therapeutic services for child victims of sexual or physical abuse, and their families. The services are designed to reduce trauma, provide support and assist children and families in healing from their abuse experiences. In addition, the CAC serves as a community resource to facilitate the identification, intervention, and prevention of child abuse.CAC’s mission is to serve as the leading resource to empower and heal children and families who have experienced abuse and prevent violence against children.