About the Lamoille County Child Advocacy Center
Who We Are
The Lamoille County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) and Special Investigation Unit (SIU) has served Lamoille County since 2009, responding to reports of child sexual abuse, adult sexual abuse, serious physical injury, and abuse of vulnerable adults.
As a nationally recognized Child Advocacy Center we provide a safe, neutral, child-friendly space where trauma-informed professionals meet with children and families about concerns of abuse. We operate independently from law enforcement and the Department for Children and Families (DCF).
Our mission is to protect survivors, support families, and ensure accountability so no one has to navigate these experiences alone.
One Place, One Coordinated Response
The Lamoille County CAC/SIU brings two complementary functions together under one roof:
The Child Advocacy Center (CAC)
A nonprofit dedicated to the safety, healing, and support of children, families, and vulnerable adults. We provide advocacy, resources, and coordinated services to reduce trauma and help families navigate difficult situations with care and clarity.
The Special Investigation Unit (SIU)
A multi-agency team handling complex cases involving child sexual abuse, adult sexual abuse, and serious physical injuries. It brings together specially trained professionals from law enforcement and prosecution who collaborate with child protection and victim service partners to conduct thorough, coordinated investigations.
Together, the CAC and SIU provide a unified, child-centered response- combining compassionate support with effective investigation from the very beginning.
Our Impact
The Lamoille County Child Advocacy Center serves the entire Lamoille County, supporting residents across its 10 towns: Morristown, Wolcott, Hyde Park, Johnson, Eden, Cambridge, Waterville, Belvidere, Stowe, Elmore.
Each year, we respond to approximately 100 and 150 cases, providing coordinated support for children, survivors, families, and vulnerable adults. Our work ensures that individuals receive compassionate care, trauma-informed services, and a unified response from trained professionals across disciplines.
At the center of every case is a commitment to safety, dignity, and healing for every person we serve.
Our Board
Becky Gonyea - President
Executive Director, Clarina Howard Nichols Center
Isaac Merriam - Vice President
Lieutenant, Vermont State Police
Jason Luneau - Secretary/Treasurer
Chief of Police, Morristown Police Department
Roger Marcoux - Member
Sheriff, Lamoille County Sheriff's Department
Brooke O'Steen - Member
Chief of Police, Stowe Police Department
Aliena Gerhard - Member
State’s Attorney, Lamoille County State's Attorney
Jaime Blouin - Member
District Director, Department for Children and Families
Community and Law Enforcement Partners
We are proud to collaborate with a dedicated network of community partners who share our commitment to protecting survivors and supporting families throughout Lamoille County.
