INDIANA — As 2026 begins, a vital Indiana nonprofit is preparing to mark a sobering but significant milestone. Susie’s Place, a multidisciplinary Child Advocacy Center (CAC), expects to serve its 20,000th child this year, providing a sanctuary for victims of abuse during their most vulnerable moments.
The organization’s impact has grown exponentially since its founding in 2009. In 2025 alone, Susie’s Place conducted 1,399 forensic child interviews across 46 Indiana counties, with a primary focus on sexual abuse investigations.
Susie’s Place operates three specialized centers in Avon, Bloomington, and Terre Haute. Their primary mission is to ensure that the investigation process does not further traumatize a child.
In a traditional investigation, a child might have to retell their story multiple times to different officials. At Susie’s Place, a single, child-friendly forensic interview is conducted while law enforcement, Department of Child Services (DCS) representatives, and medical professionals observe from a separate room. This “one-stop” approach allows for child-centered care in neutral, non-leading interviews designed for children’s comfort. Professional Collaboration with real-time communication between mental health professionals and investigators. All services are provided entirely free of charge, supported by grants and community donations.
The organization’s work extends far beyond the interview room. Since 2017, Susie’s Place has been a leader in proactive safety, educating over 311,836 K-12 students on abuse prevention. By teaching children how to identify and report “unsafe” situations, the center aims to stop abuse before it escalates.
As Susie’s Place prepares for a record-breaking year of service, community support remains critical. To learn more about their mission, donate, or volunteer, visit their website at susiesplace.org or contact their regional offices directly.
