The 32nd Judicial District is proud to announce the grand opening of its new Child Advocacy Center (CAC), dedicated to providing support and resources for children and families affected by severe abuse in Lewis, Perry, and Hickman Counties. This new center is the result of a collaborative effort to fill the service gap left by the departure of the Davis House Child Advocacy Center from the region.
The establishment of the 32nd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center was spearheaded by District Attorney General Hans Schwendimann, along with Destinye Runions and Taylor Qualls (not pictured) from the former Davis House Child Advocacy Center, founding board members – Ashley Pollock, Jon Hackett, and Lena Rayfield, and board member, Donn
Kraemer. Their goal was to ensure that vulnerable children in these communities would continue to have access to vital services such as victim advocacy, forensic interviews,
case management, court support, victim court orientation, and counseling referral services for families navigating this challenging time.
In light of the withdrawal of Davis House Child Advocacy Center in the region, the District Attorney, along with the center’s staff members and board members, recognized the urgent need to bridge the gap and create a sustainable solution. Their collaboration led to the development of this new organization, which is designed to serve as a safe, child-friendly space for children who have experienced severe abuse, providing them with the services and care they need to begin the healing process.
“The results of a recent study reveal that one in eight children in the state of Tennessee will experience child abuse before reaching the age of 18. Alarmingly, statistics show that only 12% of abuse cases are ever reported to authorities. In our three-county service area alone, we encounter hundreds of child victims each year, and it is deeply troubling to consider that this represents only a fraction of the true scope of the issue.
Child abuse does not discriminate—it transcends race, religion, gender, socioeconomic status, and other demographic factors, affecting children from all backgrounds. It is crucial that our communities come together to serve as advocates and protectors of our children. With the opening of our new Child Advocacy Center, our goal is clear: to be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.” – Destinye Runions, Executive Director.
The 32nd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center will work closely with local law enforcement, Department of Children’s Services, the District Attorney’s office, medical professionals, and other community partners to create a coordinated and compassionate response to child abuse. The center’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that children can receive a full range of services in a single location, minimizing trauma and streamlining the investigation process.
We are proud to operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As a tax-exempt organization, every contribution is vital to ensure we can continue providing essential services and programs that make a lasting impact. We rely on the generosity of our community to help fund our mission and make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Your donation, no matter the size, contributes to the services for children in our area.
For more information about the 32nd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center, or to make a donation, please call 931-295-3033 or email Destinye Runions at
The Centers are located at 121 E. 2nd Ave. in Hohenwald, TN and 109 E. Swan St. in Centerville, TN.
