Information About the Center

What is CALICO?

A safe and friendly place where a child can "tell what happened."

A center where representatives from many disciplines come together to discuss and make decisions about investigation, treatment and prosecution of child abuse cases.

A place where the rights of the child, the family and the accused are protected.

A public/private partnership that builds allies across systems and advocates for the needs of abused children.

Why Do We Need CALICO?

Many Alameda County children fall victim to physical and sexual abuse each year. In Alameda County alone, over 20,000 reports of child abuse and neglect are received annually.

Without CALICO, children are often re-traumatized by the child abuse investigation process. Without CALICO, children may be asked to relive their victimization by having to tell their story twelve to fourteen different times, to as many as eight different people.

What does CALICO Provide?

Coordinated Investigations.
A multidisciplinary team interviews and gathers evidence. Its efforts are supported by organized follow-ups, tracking of cases and coordinated case staffing.

Forensic Interviews
Child-sensitive interviewing is done in a comfortable, home-like environment, and conducted by child interview specialists.

Reduction in Number of Interviews and Interviewers
Because interviews are videotaped, the need to re-interview the child is significantly reduced. Should a follow-up interview be needed, it is conducted by the same interviewer.

Multi-Disciplinary Staffing
Professionals involved with CALICO cases meet to share information, assess steps needed for the child's safety and determine what type of legal action is warranted.

Training and Education
Training is provided to professionals involved in child abuse investigations and intervention in the community. Multi-disciplinary training ensures a broad knowledge of issues concerning child abuse.

Who Does CALICO Serve?

Child victims of sexual and physical abuse in Alameda County.

Family members of child abuse victims.

Community professionals from law enforcement, child protective services, legal, medical, mental health, and educational agencies.

Who is Involved?

CALICO is a public/private partnership between: Police Departments
Child Protective Services
District Attorney's Office
Children's Hospital Oakland
Community Care Licensing
Child Abuse Prevention Council
Junior League of Oakland-East Bay, Inc.
California Department of Social Services
Family Court Services
Child Advocates.

How Can I Become Involved?

Invite a CALICO representative to speak at your club, school, social club, or religious organization.

Contribute to CALICO. Your gift of money, time or items helps to continue and enhance our programs.

Join CALICO's fund raising council to ensure the Center's success.

Volunteer your time to assist children and their families.

Tell others about CALICO's work.

How Do I Report Abuse?

In an emergency, call 911
Otherwise, call your local police department, of Child Protective Services at (510) 259-1800