The Child Protection Center, Inc (CPC) was selected by the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch to receive funding in support of the Children and Families Supervised Visitation Program (CFSVP), one of CPC’s Child Abuse Intervention programs. CFSVP was established in 1995 and provides a safe place for children to interact with parents without the stress of being in the middle of a family argument, observing a parent who is impaired by substance abuse and without uncomfortable conversations that include adult topics. “The impact on children residing in families experiencing domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness, child abuse and/or neglect, is highly traumatic,” explains Douglas Staley, CPC’s Executive Director. “It invades every aspect of their lives, impacting their physical and mental health and learning ability.” By accessing CFSVP, the risk of violence to children decreases. CFSVP applies a “two-generation” approach, addressing the needs of both the child and parents to interrupt the cycle of abuse. This approach offers security to the custodial parent transporting the child, ensures the child’s well-being, and provides contact with the non-custodial parent. Referrals for the program are accepted from the 12 th Judicial Circuit Court and community agencies. “CFSVP is the starting point for these children to move toward healing and to thrive mentally, physically and emotionally,” says Mr. Staley. Over 50 Sarasota County citizens serve as CFSVP volunteers. The Child Protection Center’s mission is the Prevention, Intervention, & Treatment of Child Abuse, as the organization envisions a community where children are safe from abuse and free to thrive. For over 40 years, CPC has been serving Sarasota and DeSoto Counties in the State of Florida and is accredited by the National Children’s Alliance. For more information on CPC or to inquire about volunteering with the Children and Families Supervised Visitation Program, visit www.cpcsarasota.org or call 941-365-1277.