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Detecting Child Sexual Abuse
The signs of child sexual abuse can be subtle.
Child sexual abuse is not easily identifiable and can happen without visible signs or physical force. It often involves manipulation, coercion, and grooming, making it hard for children and adults to recognize.
Dispelling misconceptions is crucial for communities to recognize the subtle signs, enabling early intervention and prevention. We’re working to empower communities to break the cycle, identify warning signs, and take effective actions when possible abuse is detected.
Resources
Explore our Resources for valuable tools and materials dedicated to educating and equipping individuals and our communities to protect children and create safer environments for all.
Reporting Abuse is Critical
When child sexual abuse happens, action is necessary.
Child sexual abuse often goes unreported because child victims fear they won’t be believed. Fearing potential repercussions, they suffer self-blame, guilt, and shame in silence. When children do disclose sexual abuse, they often confide in peers who cannot report it.
Unfortunately, abused children aren’t completely wrong in their assumptions. Adults such as teachers, doctors, coaches, and faith leaders often lack the knowledge to recognize signs of abuse. They may not know how to readily address such abuse when it is reported to them. We can change this.
Report suspected abuse
In Texas, every adult is required by law to report suspected child abuse. Your report could be the difference between a child carrying the weight of these crimes alone and a child finding safety, justice, and healing. For emergencies, dial 911. Texas Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400Ways to Give
To further discuss any of our giving options, reach out to our philanthropy team at advancement@cactx.org.
CACTX strengthens and advances the statewide network of CACs serving children and families across Texas.
Through leadership, training, technical assistance, advocacy, and statewide coordination, CACTX helps equip local CACs and multidisciplinary partners to provide high-quality services and support to children impacted by abuse.
We are grateful for the generous supporters who make this work possible.
Ways to Support CACTX
Leadership Giving
Organizational Giving
- Corporate Giving
- Workplace Giving
Planned & Asset-Based Giving
- Stock Donations
- Donor Advised Funds
- Legacy Giving
General Support
- Donate Online
- Donate by Phone ext. 4
- Donate by Check – Send a check made out to “Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas” to 1501 W Anderson Lane, Building B-1, Austin, TX 78757
EverUpward
EverUpward is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to developing, launching, and scaling solutions that help children and families thrive.
Built on decades of learning, partnership, and impact alongside CACTX, EverUpward was created to take promising ideas further, expanding their reach and accelerating their impact.
EverBright is the first flagship initiative of EverUpward, with additional initiatives planned in the years ahead.
CACTX and EverUpward serve complementary roles in helping children and families thrive. While CACTX strengthens and advances the work of CACs across Texas, EverUpward builds on that foundation by developing and scaling solutions that address critical challenges facing children and families before crisis occurs.
Today, private philanthropic support for these initiatives is directed through EverUpward.
Learn More about EverUpwardSupporting CACTX is one of my most important priorities because of the essential work they do on a daily basis and in very critical moments to help children affected by abuse. - Women of Courage Supporter
Financial Transparency
CACTX values partnership and transparency, and we believe it’s important that you know how your donation is being used to serve and protect Texas children. You can find our latest financial documents and reports below.
CACTX is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit as designated by the IRS, and all contributions are 100% tax deductible. Our Tax ID Number is 75-2581804
Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas
1501 W. Anderson Lane, Building B-1
Austin, Texas 78757
Main Number: 512-258-9920
Suspected Abuse: Any suspected abuse should be reported to the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400. For emergencies, call 9-1-1 or local law enforcement.
Ongoing Investigations: For questions specific to an ongoing investigation or case, please contact the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) at 1-800-720-7777 or local law enforcement.
Legal Assistance: If you require legal assistance, please contact an attorney. For free legal assistance, visit the Texas State Law Library website to find your local legal aid organization
Your Support is Paramount
We extend our gratitude to our private funding partners, whose generosity strengthens our efforts alongside vital public funding at the state and federal levels. Lasting change is only possible through collaboration, and across Texas, our partners share a common vision: together, we can make Texas the best place to be a child. Thank you for joining us.
