Helping kids when they need it most.

Shining Star is a nonprofit organization that provides a coordinated multi-agency approach and prompt response to the investigation, intervention and treatment of sexual and physical abuse of children residing in Lee and Ogle counties of Illinois. The center is located on the first floor of the Commerce Towers building in Dixon (215 East First Street), was established in 2002 and is funded by federal and state grants, United Way, and private donations.

By bringing together specially trained collaborative team members from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), law enforcement agencies, prosecution offices, the judicial system, and medical/mental health fields, the Shining Star program reduces the number of times children are subjected to interviews — significantly minimizing emotional trauma to children, and their families. Further, this team approach facilitates victim recovery and can strengthen the chance for successful criminal prosecution through improved investigations.

Our Mission:
To ensure investigations involving allegations of sexual and serious physical abuse involving children in Lee and Ogle counties are conducted in a manner sensitive to the needs of the children; to promote all components of the investigative process in a child-friendly atmosphere; and to ensure that every effort shall be made to help all children and families feel safe, comfortable and supported throughout their experience at the Shining Star Children’s Advocacy Center.

Project Acknowledgements:
This project was supported by Grant #2002-VA-GX-0017, awarded by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Departments of Justice, through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Points of view or opinions contained within this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice, or the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.