OUR MISSION
The mission of the Gateway Children's Advocacy Center is to provide coordinated services to victims of child sexual abuse, physical abuse, and human trafficking, as well as support for adults and families, in the Gateway area. We ensure a safe and nurturing environment where trauma is minimized and healing is promoted.
ABOUT US
Gateway Children’s Advocacy Center, a nonprofit organization, opened its doors in 2000 in Morehead, Kentucky. The center emerged from a community child sexual abuse task force, comprising child protective services, law enforcement, prosecution, mental health, and medical professionals. This group met regularly to define and refine professional roles in investigations and interventions, aiming to improve the system’s response to sexual abuse. Their collaborative efforts resulted in strong working relationships and clear investigative guidelines, forming a multi-disciplinary team as mandated by KRS 431.600 and 620.020 for specialized investigations of child sexual abuse.
​Gateway Children’s Advocacy Center is a victim-focused facility that provides a safe atmosphere for victims, reduces trauma, and promotes healing through a multidisciplinary team approach. The center is dedicated to reducing the occurrence of sexual assault and raising awareness through preventive education. Our center offers a victim-friendly environment designed to meet the needs of sexual assault victims with warmth, support, and protection. It serves as a hub where all agencies can coordinate services for prevention, intervention, and accountability.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most pervasive social problems, profoundly impacting children and adults who experience this crime. Historically, it was dismissed as a “family problem,” but its significant impact is now widely recognized. This issue affects not only the individual victims but also the mental health community. There is no longer any question that child sexual abuse is a criminal justice problem, a social services problem, and a mental health problem.
​
Gateway Children's Advocacy Center serves Rowan, Bath, Morgan, Montgomery, and Menifee Counties as well as providing additional support to surrounding communities.