The Collier Children’s Advocacy Center (Collier CAC) has officially launched Phase I of its Lifting Up. Building Strength. A fundraising initiative, marking a significant step forward in its mission to serve children and families impacted by abuse in Collier County.

            The milestone was commemorated during a recent event at Collier CAC’s future home, where leadership, board members and community partners gathered to recognize the initiative’s public debut and the start of interior construction within the building. Remarks were delivered by Collier CAC leadership and Maria Jimenez-Lara, CEO of Naples Children Foundation.

“This is a defining moment for our organization,” said Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “We’ve continued to meet children and families where they are, even through disruption. Now, we’re building something that allows us to do that work better, together and under one roof.”

The Lifting Up. Building Strength. initiative is a two-phase initiative designed to restore, reunify and strengthen Collier CAC’s services following the loss of its primary facility to Hurricane Ian. Phase I represents the critical first step, focused on completing the interior buildout and ensuring the center can open fully operational to bring all services together under one roof.

“Collier CAC is doing some of the most important work in our community, supporting children and families during incredibly difficult moments,” said Jimenez-Lara. “This investment ensures they have the space and resources to deliver that care in the way it’s needed most.”

Phase I includes approximately $4.38 million for the building, renovation and first year of operations, creating a stable foundation for long-term impact. Currently operating across multiple locations, Collier CAC’s services are fragmented, requiring children and families to navigate separate sites for care during an already traumatic time. The new facility is designed to change that, bringing forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapy, family advocacy and parent education together in one coordinated, child-centered setting.

“What this really comes down to is making sure children and families don’t have to navigate this process alone or across multiple locations,” said Brad Boaz, board chair of Collier CAC. “Bringing everything together under one roof allows us to serve them the way they deserve.”

During the event, attendees participated in a ceremonial signing to mark the beginning of construction, symbolizing the community’s collective commitment to strengthening the county’s response to child abuse and supporting children on their path to healing.

Each year, more than 2,500 suspected cases of child abuse are reviewed in Collier County, underscoring the demand for coordinated, trauma-informed care. As the campaign moves forward, Collier CAC is calling on the community to play a role in supporting its mission.

“When you support this initiative, you’re not just investing in a building,” said Stephens. “You’re investing in safety, stability and a future for children who need it most.”

For more information about the Lifting Up. Building Strength. capital campaign or to learn how to support Collier CAC, visit caccollier.org.