Help Raise Awareness this April
April 4, 2025 wear blue to celebrate Protect Austin Kids™ Day
Watch and share our video: 'Every Child Deserves to Feel Safe'
Attend our free prevention webinar
Learn more about our Child Protection Team members
Download our Social Media Toolkit

Every Child Deserves to Feel Safe
Watch and share our newest PSA, Every Child Deserves to Feel Safe, which shines a light on the dedicated team working together to Protect Austin Kids™. Told through the eyes of a child, the video highlights the compassionate collaboration between our Child Protection Team partners — including law enforcement, medical staff, case workers, prosecutors, therapists, interviewers, and advocates — all united to create a safe, healing space for children.
Free Webinars
5 Steps to Protecting our Kids
Did you know that 1 in 10 children will experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday? As adults, we all play a role in keeping children safe. This April, join us to learn how to prevent, recognize, and respond to child abuse in a way that empowers and protects.
Our 5 Steps to Protecting Children framework provides an evidence-informed approach to prevention.
5 Pasos Para Protegar a Nuestros Hijos
¿Sabías que 1 de cada 10 niños sufrirá abusos sexuales antes de cumplir 18 años? Como adultos, todos tenemos un papel importante en asegurar su protección. Este mes de abril, acompáñanos a aprender cómo prevenir, reconocer y responder al abuso infantil para empoderar y proteger a nuestros niños.
Nuestra estrategia de 5 Pasos para Proteger a Los Niños ofrece un enfoque de prevención basado en evidencia.

Every Child Deserves a Dedicated Team
The Child Protection Team (CPT) is a multidisciplinary group of agencies that collaborate to provide crucial services to abused children in Travis County. These agencies include Dell Children’s Medical Center, the Department of Family and Protective Services, the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, 20+ Travis County law enforcement jurisdictions, and the Center for Child Protection.
Meet a few of these dedicated CPT members, and learn about different the roles they play in protecting our community’s children!
Chief Lisa Davis
Q&A
How does your agency work with the Center for Child Protection?
What’s remarkable about our relationship with the Center is the collaboration between multiple agencies to ensure a child’s experience is as gentle and supportive as possible. Here, children can share their story just once, in a safe place surrounded by professionals who care deeply. This cooperation is truly extraordinary. These children have stories of adversity, but with the Center’s support, their experiences won’t define their futures. Together, we’re committed to moving children and families forward, helping them find justice, healing, and renewed hope. Our detectives and supervisors dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to this mission, driven by a profound love for children and a relentless pursuit of justice.
What do you wish more people understood about child abuse investigations?
Child abuse is one of those topics that nobody wants to talk about because it’s deeply painful to imagine children being victimized. There’s genuine sadness that comes with recognizing that reality. Yet, there’s also profound joy here—seeing children heal, seeing them turn a corner, and witnessing families move forward. These are real-life experiences, integral to each child’s story, but they don’t have to define who they become. Yes, there is trauma, and yes, horrendous things happen, but there is also incredible resilience and growth. Children can, and do, move beyond their experiences to build bright futures.
What keeps your team motivated to do this important work?
Policing is fundamentally a noble profession. When you ask anyone why they became an officer, their answer invariably includes wanting to help people—to truly make a difference. There’s no greater purpose in policing than protecting children. It’s more than just a job; it’s a profound calling. Our officers and detectives who choose this path have a passion for safeguarding children that drives their dedication every single day.
Chief Lisa Davis – Bio
Chief Lisa Davis is the second woman in Austin’s history to serve as permanent Chief of Police, bringing more than 30 years of experience from the Cincinnati Police Department. As Assistant Chief and Investigations Bureau Commander, she led efforts in homicide, major offenders, narcotics, and personal crimes.
A strong advocate for community policing, Chief Davis has specialized in building relationships and using evidence-based strategies to reduce crime. In Cincinnati, she created a city-wide problem-solving unit that improved safety in chronically violent areas and developed a specialized unit to protect at-risk populations, including the LGBTQIA+ and Latino/Hispanic communities, human trafficking victims, and homeless youth.
Chief Davis holds a bachelor’s degree from Xavier University and has received numerous honors, including the Superior Achievement in Law Enforcement and the Award of Valor.
Chief Davis remains dedicated to strengthening community partnerships and public safety in Austin.
Sheriff Sally Hernandez
Insights from Sheriff Hernandez
Q: How does your agency collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
A: We have six deputies assigned specifically to the Child Protection Team, along with two detectives and dedicated victim services personnel who collaborate closely with the Center.
Q: How would you describe your agency’s role in protecting children across Travis County?
A: Protecting children is our critical responsibility, and we take it incredibly seriously. Our deputies actively meet with children and families, and our detectives thoroughly investigate each reported case. Additionally, we have a community outreach team dedicated to education and prevention—visiting schools and community groups to help stop child abuse before it happens.
Q: This isn’t easy work—what motivates you and your team to continue?
A: I began my own journey in child abuse investigations back in April 1992, shortly after the Center first opened its doors. Witnessing the devastating cycle of abuse has only deepened my commitment—and the commitment of our entire team—to protect children. Our passion and dedication have grown stronger over the years. Protecting Travis County’s children is a burden we proudly carry every day.
Q: How does your team collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
A: We have an extraordinary partnership here. Multiple agencies—including ours, the Center, and Dell Children’s Hospital—come together seamlessly for a common goal. It’s a highly effective collaboration, and we’re incredibly proud to be a part of it.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about child abuse?
A: It’s crucial for everyone to understand that, in most cases, the people harming children aren’t strangers. Often, they’re individuals known to the child. Another critical point is that children should never feel responsible for protecting their abuser. It’s the adults’ responsibility to protect children, never the other way around.
Get to Know Sheriff Hernandez
With over 40 years in law enforcement—more than 30 in Travis County—Sheriff Sally Hernandez has dedicated her career to protecting the community. She began as a night dispatcher in Llano, Texas, before moving to Austin, where she served as a Deputy, Investigator, and Chief of Investigations for the Travis County District Attorney’s Office.
Elected Sheriff in 2016, Sheriff Hernandez is one of only seven female sheriffs in Texas history, leading with a focus on justice and victim advocacy. She has built strong investigative teams and champions efforts to keep Travis County safe.
Her leadership has earned her multiple awards for advocacy and public service. Sheriff Hernandez and the Travis County Sheriff’s Office remain committed to protecting Austin’s children and ensuring justice for those who need it most.
Cyndi Cantu
Insights from Cyndi Cantu
Q: What’s something people might not realize about the work done at the Center?
A: Every single day, multiple agencies come together to investigate cases of child abuse so that every child has access to justice.
Q: What does “Protect Austin Kids” mean to you?
A: To me, it means that every child is safe and lives a life filled with joy, beauty, and love.
Q: What do you love most about your job?
A: I love that I get to make a difference—not just in the lives of the children and families we serve, but also in the lives of our agency partners by supporting them in the important work they do every day.
Q: What do you want the Austin community to know about keeping kids safe?
A: In order to keep the children in our community safe, it’s important that each one of us takes responsibility for reporting child abuse when we see it.
Q: How can someone report suspected abuse?
A: You can call 1-800-252-5400 to make a report of child abuse.
Get to Know Cyndi Cantu
Cyndi Cantu has been with the Center for Child Protection since 1995 and currently serves as the Chief Team Relations and Forensic Officer. She ensures that the multidisciplinary team follows investigative protocols for child abuse cases and oversees the forensic interview and coordination programs.
Cyndi holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and previously worked as a Child Protection Investigator. A nationally recognized expert in forensic interviewing, she has contributed to the development of statewide training models and has presented on child abuse investigations across the country.
Her dedication to protecting children and improving investigative practices has made her a leader in the field.
Detective Rosie Perez
Q&A
Can you tell us how you and your team work to protect children?
The Center for Child Protection is really the hub—the Mecca—for addressing child abuse concerns. We’re fortunate to have such an incredible facility that allows us to offer our very best when kids are experiencing their worst moments. It’s an environment where multiple service providers collaborate seamlessly, enabling us to effectively support children and their families.
What specific role does your team play in protecting children?
We investigate all concerns related to child abuse that may violate the law. Our role is to thoroughly investigate these cases and ensure justice is served, including arresting those responsible based on children’s disclosures.
This isn’t easy work—what motivates you every day?Children are the most vulnerable members of our community. Being there for them when they need us most provides all the motivation we need to keep going, no matter what. Our team’s success is deeply connected to the exceptional resources and support provided by places like the Center for Child Protection.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about child abuse?
Child abuse doesn’t fit one mold. It affects children from all backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life. It’s critical that we remain open and attentive, ready to recognize when a child speaks out. Children deserve to be safe and protected from any form of abuse, and we can’t afford to miss it.
Detective Rosie Perez – Bio
Detective Rosie Perez has served with the Austin Police Department since 2012 and has been a dedicated member of the Child Abuse Unit for the past two years. In her current role, she investigates cases of sexual and physical abuse involving children, working to bring justice and protection to Austin’s most vulnerable.
Before joining the Child Abuse Unit, Det. Perez held several positions within APD, including Corporal and District Representative in Southeast Austin, as well as a Patrol Officer.
Her law enforcement career began with the Austin ISD Police Department, where she worked in the Investigations Division, focusing on school-related child abuse cases and juvenile gang investigations.
Detective Joshua Garrison
Insights from Joshua Garrison
Q: How does your team work with the Center for Child Protection?
A: Our team collaborates closely with the Center for Child Protection almost daily, primarily by scheduling forensic interviews for child victims and coordinating investigations.
Q: What does your team do to protect children in the community?
A: Our team actively protects children from the very moment we receive a report—whether it’s an outcry of physical abuse, or another form of child abuse. We manage each case comprehensively, from initial investigation through to its conclusion with the prosecutor’s office.
Q: That doesn’t sound like easy work—what motivates you to continue?
A: While each case is uniquely challenging, the motivation comes from seeing positive outcomes and knowing we’ve achieved justice for child victims. The rewards of helping children find safety and justice make the difficult aspects of our work worthwhile.
Get to Know Detective Garrison
With more than 16 years in law enforcement, Det.Joshua Garrison is dedicated to protecting Austin’s most vulnerable. He began his career as a Police Dispatcher before becoming a sworn Officer in 2012. After serving in Alamo Heights, Det. Garrison relocated to Austin in 2016, where he now serves as a Child Abuse Detective with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Travis County Sheriff’s Office.
Det. Garrison investigates crimes against children, the elderly, and disabled individuals, bringing experience from the Family Violence, Property Crimes, and School Resource Officer Units.
Det. Garrison is committed to seeking justice for children and ensuring their voices are heard.
Shelby Duarte
Insights from Shelby Duarte
Q: How do you collaborate with the Child Protection Team?
A: In my role, I collaborate closely with all of our agency partners. I regularly connect with caseworkers and detectives while staffing individual cases. Additionally, I work alongside district attorneys during case reviews or training sessions, as well as medical professionals who are essential to our team’s investigative process.
Q: This work is challenging. What keeps you motivated?
A: This is indeed tough work. People often say, “You must have a really hard job,” and that’s absolutely true—but it’s also a thousand times more rewarding. Knowing that children feel heard and supported is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me committed to this role every day.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about child abuse investigations?
A: I wish people understood how critical their reactions are when a child discloses abuse. Immediate responses like, “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” can unintentionally make a child feel as though they’re at fault. It’s essential to remain calm, supportive, and patient—really hearing their words without judgment—because every child deserves to feel safe.
Q: What impact do you hope the Child Protection Team continues to have in the future?
A: We already have strong working relationships with our partners, and I hope we continue to build and strengthen these collaborations. Strong partnerships ensure we’re all effectively working together to support families.
Get to Know Shelby Duarte
Shelby Duarte is the Director of Forensic Services at the Center for Child Protection and has been with the organization since 2015. She oversees the forensic interview department while also conducting interviews to help ensure children have a safe space to share their experiences.
Shelby holds a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from St. Edward’s University in Austin. Beyond her work at the Center, she is dedicated to training future professionals as a faculty member for the Forensic Interview Training Program at Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas.
Erika Senger
Insights from Erika Senger
Q: How does your team collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
A: We partner with the Center whenever a child makes an outcry of abuse or neglect. We reach out to schedule a forensic interview, and once that’s completed, the Center continues supporting both me and the family. They help connect the family to services like individual or family therapy, or medical support—whatever is needed to help stabilize and support the family dynamic.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about child abuse investigations?
A: I wish more people realized how difficult it is to deal with child abuse and neglect. When a case is first assigned, it can feel really overwhelming. But knowing you can step in and serve as an outside source of help—someone who can guide a family toward solutions and connect them to real support—makes the work meaningful.
Q: What keeps you motivated to do this important work?
A: Just knowing I’m making a positive impact in the community. I feel like I have a purpose in this role, and that the work I do is truly beneficial. It’s rewarding to be in a position where I can support families in crisis and help bring about positive change.
Q: What should someone do if they suspect a child is being abused?
A: I would recommend calling the Child Abuse Hotline, 1-800-252-5400. You can also submit a report online through the DFPS website. If you believe a child is in danger, it’s so important to report it urgently and take action.
Get to Know Erika Senger
Erika Senger is a Child Protective Investigator with the Department of Family and Protective Services, dedicated to keeping children safe. For the past two years, she has worked in Alternative Response, supporting families and ensuring the well-being of children in the community.
She believes in resilience, embracing Vince Lombardi’s words: “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”
Erika is honored to take part in Child Abuse Prevention Month, reminding everyone that protecting children is a shared responsibility.
Chad Honaker
Q&A
Can you introduce yourself and your role?
My name is Chad Honaker. I’m a detective with the Austin Police Department’s Child Abuse Unit. We work in collaboration with the Center for Child Protection, primarily conducting forensic interviews with child victims and witnesses in abuse cases.
What does your team do to protect children?
Our unit investigates both physical and sexual abuse cases involving children. Each case is assigned to a detective who handles the investigation from start to finish—whether it results in filing charges or being suspended due to lack of probable cause.
What keeps you motivated to do this work?
I’ve had a passion for child abuse cases throughout my 18 years in law enforcement. That passion comes from a personal experience—I lost a child to a heart defect. Working these cases and protecting other children is my way of giving back.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about this work?
These investigations are incredibly complex. No two cases are the same, and it takes a lot of time to collect information—whether that’s through search warrants, talking to witnesses, or gathering supporting evidence. It’s not like TV; we don’t solve cases in an hour.
What do you value about working with the Center for Child Protection?
I really appreciate the collaborative environment. Our office is nearby, so we’re able to walk over and talk directly with family advocates, therapists, or forensic interviewers when we need to. I’ve also had the chance to attend events like the Fun Run and even graduations for kids completing therapy. Seeing the impact the Center has on kids’ healing and resilience is incredibly rewarding.
Isabel Hoffmann
Q&A
How does your agency collaborate with the Center for Child Protection?
When my families are referred to the Center, the staff here do an amazing job of making both the children and their parents feel safe and comfortable enough to share their stories. From there, the Center connects them to services tailored to their needs—like individual or family therapy. One of the most impactful things I’ve seen is the education and prevention training the Center provides. It helps parents understand how to create a safe home environment and build open communication with their kids.
What keeps you motivated to do this challenging but vital work?
I have a strong desire to defend the defenseless. Knowing that my work has a direct and positive impact on the lives of children and families is incredibly rewarding. That’s what keeps me going.
What should someone do if they suspect a child is being abused?
Act immediately—never wait. If you suspect abuse or neglect, call the CPS hotline right away to make a report. The sooner we can get involved, the sooner we can help protect that child and support their family.
Isabel Hoffmann – Bio
Isabel Hoffmann has been an Investigator with the Department of Family Protective Services for more than two years, earning the respect of her peers through her strong work ethic, depth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment to child safety. Known for her ability to build trust with families and help guide them toward timely resolution, Isabel has become a go-to resource for her team. Even before stepping into a mentorship role, she played a key part in training new caseworkers and supporting colleagues across the department. Her professionalism, accountability, and collaborative spirit make her a valued member of the team.
Child Protection Team Spotlight- Austin Police Department
At the Center for Child Protection, we are proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Austin Police Department in the fight against child abuse. Their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community is unwavering—and deeply inspiring.
Child Protection Team Spotlight- Travis County Sheriff's Office
During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we’re highlighting agencies whose dedication helps protect and advocate for children in Travis County, because every child deserves to feel safe. Among these essential partners is the Travis County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).
Child Protection Team Spotlight- Department of Family and Protective Services
During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we’re highlighting the agencies that work tirelessly to protect and support children across Travis County—because every child deserves a safe home and a chance to heal. Among these vital partners is the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
Child Protection Team Spotlight- Center for Child Protection
Throughout April, we’re shining a light on the incredible agencies that make up our district’s Child Protection Team — those who work together every day to #ProtectAustinKids and support families impacted by abuse. We are equally as proud to highlight our own team at the Center for Child Protection that coordinates this multidisciplinary effort and provides a safe, child-friendly place for kids to begin their journey toward healing.




Smart, Simple Ways to Protect Your Child
Talking to your child about personal safety can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Parents and caregivers are always looking for ways to protect their kids and help them feel confident, secure, and supported.
Want to feel more confident having these conversations? Check out our blog for simple, supportive ways to talk to your child about personal safety.
Read More Today!



Social Media Toolkit
Join us in raising awareness for child abuse prevention in our community. Download the Social Media Toolkit to explore our April initiatives and access ready-to-use resources that empower you to help #ProtectAustinKids.
Download the Toolkit



Awareness Ambassador
Our Awareness Ambassador program equips our corporate partners to amplify child safety efforts while demonstrating to employees, customers, and clients that your company cares deeply about protecting children.
If you are interested in getting your company engaged with any of our April initiatives, please contact Journey Riggs at jriggs@centerforchildprotection.org
Shop and Support
Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen – All Locations
Join The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen in supporting Child Abuse Prevention Month by dining with them on Friday, April 4. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Center for Child Protection.
Kendra Scott – Domain
Shop in-store April 21, 2025. Mention the Center for Child Protection, and 20% of your purchase will benefit kids in our community. Or shop online April 21–22, 2025, and use the code GIVEBACK-IZFEC at checkout to make the same impact.