Sheboygan's child advocacy center seeks remaining $500K in capital campaign for new space

SHEBOYGAN PRESS

The new victim advocacy center is expected to open at Uptown Social early next year.

SHEBOYGAN – Sheboygan Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center is seeking community support to reach its $2.5 million capital campaign for a new space in Sheboygan.  

The victim advocacy center is moving from the Sheboygan Police Department to a renovated 5,000-square-foot space at Uptown Social, 1817 N. Eighth St. Expected to open early next year, the new office will have observation, medical, advocacy, therapy and family meeting rooms.

The Saukville-based organization, which works with agencies like law enforcement, mental health providers and prosecutors to support children and families experiencing or witnessing crimes, abuse and neglect, has already raised $2 million toward the campaign goal.  

“A huge thank you to local corporations and philanthropists who have stepped up to get us to this stage of the campaign,” Amanda Didier, executive director of LRCAC, said in a news release.

“We have worked in the Sheboygan community out of the Sheboygan Police Department for several years, but for almost as long, we have needed a space of our own to help children, teens and families through some of the most difficult times of their lives.”   

LRCAC has offered services in the Sheboygan area since late 2020. Services provided locally account for 40% of families served in the region, also including Ozaukee, Washington and Manitowoc counties.  

“LRCAC interviews have been invaluable to the successful prosecution of cases and care of child victims and witnesses,” Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski said. “I encourage the use of the LCAC as much as possible.” 

The organization’s public campaign will include emailing, social media engagement and public presentations.