Written by: John DeRousie. Custom Marketing Solutions
Fulton, NY – Executive Director of the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County (CAC), Karrie Damm, has announced that Amanda Capeling has joined the staff as a victim advocate. A graduate of SUNY Oswego, Capeling holds a Master’s Degree in Art Education.

A native of Fulton, Capeling had previously worked as a counselor / case specialist with Oswego County Opportunities’ Services to Aid Families (SAF) program and most recently as a residential assistant at OCO’s SAF House.  At SAF, Capeling facilitated support groups, provided one on one supportive counseling, answered the SAF crisis hot lines, and conducted statistical analysis.  While at the SAF House, she worked directly with women residing at the house, offering support, transportation, assistance with affordable, safe housing, and other needs.

Capeling has found her experiences in the human services field to be quite rewarding and is enjoying the opportunity to work with children.  “I feel I have found my niche,” said Capeling.  “I have taken numerous psychology courses as electives and have always enjoyed working with children.  Through my involvement with summer recreation programs in Fulton and Phoenix, and teaching art classes at Oswego County BOCES I have gained valuable experience working with children.  It’s difficult to put into words how important the mission of the CAC is to our county.  I feel fortunate to be a part of the CAC team. It gives me the opportunity to meld my human services and advocacy experience with my love of working with children and helping others.”

As a victim advocate, Capeling will work closely with the CAC’s Multi-Disciplinary Team that is comprised of a cross section of law enforcement investigators, child protective services, probation officers, medical providers, therapeutic professionals, victim support professionals, and the district attorney’s office. The CAC’s multi-disciplinary team works to reduce the trauma to children and respective family members undergoing an investigation of child sexual and physical abuse. Working in collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team, Capeling will assist children and their families who are victims of abuse to ensure that they receive the support they need and are able to access the specific services they require.

Families that come to the CAC have experienced a traumatic event and have had their lives completely disrupted.  Being able to assist these families and their children is paramount.  “It’s hard to imagine the trauma that our families have been through.  When families are unsure of what is happening next and do not know what resources are available, they develop feelings of frustration and hopelessness. My goal is to connect with them and help them effectively deal with the process that’s ahead of them.  Options equals hope, so ensuring that they know what their options are and empower them to take control of their situation is essential,” explained Capeling.

According to Damm the experience that Capeling brings with her will serve her well in her position as victim advocate.  “Amanda has a clear understanding of the domestic issues that exist in our county and has gained insight into issues that pertain to children. She is a welcome addition to our staff a valuable resource for the families that we serve at the CAC,” said Damm.

Located at 301 Beech St., the CAC of Oswego County is a non-profit charitable organization that provides a safe, child-friendly site for the investigation, prosecution and treatment of child abuse.

The CAC also has a satellite office located at 4822 Salina Street in Pulaski.

For more information on the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County you may contact them at 315-592-4453.