When a child experiences abuse or trauma, finding a safe space to begin healing can make all the difference. For more than two decades, Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) has been that place for countless children and families across our community – leading a child-focused, community-wide response to prevent abuse, protect children and restore hope.
The safest place to begin healing, Dove House provides a calm, welcoming environment where children are seen, heard and supported by an extraordinary team of professionals. When a family first contacts Dove House, an appointment is promptly scheduled, where they are met with empathy and reassurance. From that first visit, the process is designed to minimize stress for the child. Rather than having to travel between agencies, every necessary service – from interviews to medical exams to therapy – is coordinated under one roof.
A specially trained forensic interviewer meets privately with each child to help establish a clear record of concern in a child-sensitive manner. Caregivers also receive support through family assessments, which gives them their own safe space to share experiences and learn how to best respond to their child’s needs. Onsite medical care is provided by pediatric specialists who help children understand their bodies are okay and that what happened to them doesn’t define who they are. If further assessment is needed, children and their parents meet with licensed therapists to develop an individualized treatment plan, often spanning 10 to 25 sessions.
Behind the scenes, the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) – made up of professionals from multiple fields – meets weekly to review cases, ensuring each decision is made in the best interest of both the child and the family.
The true strength of Dove House lies in its dedicated staff of professionals – each bringing expertise and heart to their work:
- Beth McKeithan, Executive Director
- Colleen Medwid, Forensic Interviewer
- Candy Feimster and Allegra Hope, Family Advocates
- Katherine Smith, Outreach and Education Coordinator
- Amy Stevens, Director of Development
Two staff members – Colleen Medwid and Candy Feimster – have been part of Dove House since it first opened its doors in 2002, and their longevity is a testament not only to their personal dedication, but also to the culture of compassion and collaboration that defines Dove House.
Each team member is trained in trauma-informed care, ensuring every interaction is guided by empathy, understanding and respect for the child’s emotional well being. They continuously pursue professional development to stay current on the latest evidence-based practices, ensuring the center provides the highest quality of care.
Perhaps most importantly, collaboration isn’t just encouraged within the Dove House walls – it’s absolutely essential. The staff works hand in hand, creating an environment where children and families feel safe and supported at every step. Their multidisciplinary approach allows for comprehensive care – a model that has become a cornerstone of how communities across the country respond to issues surrounding child abuse.
Equally important is the sense of teamwork within the organization. Dove House fosters a workplace where staff feel valued, supported and empowered. That internal strength radiates outward, shaping how the team shows up for every child who walks through the door. Dove House will continue to expand its team and its impact as local needs grow.
At Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center, the message is simple – healing begins with heart – and it’s the dedicated staff who make that healing possible every single day.
Discover more about Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center, a fully accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Iredell and Alexander counties at dovehousecac.org, and follow them on Instagram @dovehouse_cacnc. There is currently a position open at Dove House for an operations coordinator – visit their website for more details.
