In Boone County, a small but mighty organization is making an immeasurable impact on the lives of children affected by abuse and trauma. Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center, led by Executive Director Kassie Frazier, provides a safe space for young victims to share their stories, receive critical support and begin their healing journey. With a dedicated team and a multidisciplinary approach, the center ensures that every child’s voice is heard while working to bring perpetrators to justice.
Sylvia’s serves children aged 2 to 18 who have experienced sexual abuse or physical abuse, or have witnessed a traumatic event, such as domestic violence or even homicide. The Department of Child Services refers most cases after a child makes an outcry of abuse. Sylvia’s steps in to provide a structured forensic interview – a legally sound, trauma-informed process designed to allow children to share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
These interviews are just the first step in a more extensive investigation. The center works closely with a multidisciplinary team that includes law enforcement, prosecutors, medical professionals and mental health experts. “After our interview, law enforcement investigates the perpetrator, the prosecutor works on protective orders and charges, and mental health professionals step in to provide trauma-focused therapy,” Frazier says.
Beyond forensic interviews, the center offers long-term advocacy for children and their families. Each child is assigned a victim advocate who remains by their side from the moment they enter the center until their case reaches resolution. “Many families are scared when they first come in,” Frazier says. “Our advocate walks them through every step, answers their questions and helps them navigate challenges like financial hardship, housing instability or medical expenses.”
Sylvia’s prioritizes creating a comforting environment. Unlike a hospital or police station, the center is designed to feel warm and welcoming, with child-friendly spaces that make difficult conversations a little easier.
This year marks the 65th anniversary of Sylvia Likens’ tragic story – a case that became a catalyst for child protection laws in Indiana. Sylvia’s abuse and death in the 1960s led to Indiana adopting one of the nation’s most comprehensive mandatory reporting laws.
“Because of Sylvia’s case, Indiana requires every adult to be a mandated reporter,” Frazier says. “That means if you see or hear something, you are legally required to report it.”
In honor of this milestone and the center’s 15th anniversary, Sylvia’s is hosting a special awareness breakfast on April 22, at The Club at Holliday Farms in Zionsville. The event aims to educate the community on the importance of reporting abuse and supporting child advocacy efforts.
Funding remains one of the center’s biggest challenges. “Seventy-five percent of our budget comes from grants and state contracts, but those aren’t guaranteed,” Frazier says. “We need community donations to ensure we can continue our work without relying solely on uncertain funding sources.”
Annual fundraising events like the Pedal Parade, golf outings and pickleball tournaments help bridge the financial gap, while bringing the community together for a cause that truly matters. But financial support isn’t the only way to contribute; raising awareness, advocating for children and supporting policies that protect them are equally crucial.
Sylvia’s stands as a beacon of hope for children in crisis. To continue their life-changing work, they need the community’s support. Donations, advocacy and awareness can make all the difference in protecting the most vulnerable Boone County residents. The impact of Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center is not just on the individual children it helps, but also on the entire community, as the nonprofit strives to create a safer, more caring environment for all.
