Anniston, AL – In solemn recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, the Calhoun/Cleburne Children’s Center has placed 283 blue pinwheels on its front lawn at 2100 Leighton Avenue in Anniston. Each pinwheel represents a child abuse victim who was interviewed at the center over the past year — a sobering symbol of the ongoing battle to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.
The center, which serves as a crucial hub for child advocacy, works hand-in-hand with law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Department of Human Resources (DHR) to provide a safe, supportive environment where children who may have experienced abuse can share their stories. Through trauma-informed forensic interviews, the center ensures that children are only required to recount their experience once, while all investigative agencies can access the information needed for their respective cases.
At the helm of the center is Andy Beavers, who stepped into the role of Director following his retirement from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office in September. Beavers previously served in the Sex Offender Registration and Tracking (SORT) division, where he was responsible for monitoring known sex offenders across the county — a role that has uniquely prepared him for his current mission.
“We create a child-friendly environment that allows them to feel safe,” said Beavers. “The child also only needs to tell their story one time at the center, but each investigating agency can hear it. We also provide counseling services to the victims at no charge.”
According to the center’s website (http://www.cchildrenscenter.org), all counseling services are HIPAA-compliant to protect the privacy and dignity of the children and families they serve.
The center hosts bi-monthly multi-disciplinary team meetings that bring together DHR, law enforcement, and other involved agencies to share updates, align investigations, and coordinate care for each child. “We provide a central location where all investigators can meet to provide each other with current updates,” Beavers explained. “In many cases, there may be more than one agency involved, and this ensures everyone is working from the same page.”
Oversight of the center is provided by a dedicated board of directors that includes the sitting County Sheriff and District Attorney, along with 13 other individuals who bring a mix of law enforcement expertise and passionate community advocacy. The board meets quarterly to guide the center’s direction, review fundraising efforts, and address budgetary concerns.
As a nonprofit, the Calhoun/Cleburne Children’s Center relies heavily on the generosity of local residents, businesses, and grant funding from both state and federal sources. “We are a nonprofit that works through the generous donations from Calhoun and Cleburne County residents and businesses,” said Beavers.
The center is always looking for volunteers to assist with facility upkeep and community fundraisers. Those interested in supporting their mission — whether by donating time or funds — are encouraged to visit their website or call (256) 238-0902.
