Local multidisciplinary team travels to receive grant provided to Voices of Courage Child Advocacy Center

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Members of a local multidisciplinary team (MDT) attended the Crimes Against Children Conference (CACC) in Dallas to express gratitude for a grant.

The conference brought together professionals across the country to learn about emerging trends, evidence-based practices, investigative techniques, trauma-informed care and strategies.

The grant was provided to the Voices of Courage Child Advocacy Center to train the team in investigating cases involving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children.

“One of the greatest strengths of a child advocacy center is the MDT approach,” said Melissa Birdsell, executive director of Voices of Courage. “When our partners have the opportunity to learn together, they return with a shared understanding of best practices, stronger professional relationships, and new ideas that ultimately improve the services we provide to children in our community.”

According to a news release from Voices of Courage, child abuse cases are among the most complex investigations a professional can encounter.

Ongoing professional development ensures local professionals can deliver services and resources for victims that reflect current research.