Read My Voice Matters

My Voice Matters: A Safe Place To Tell My Truth explains what to expect when you visit Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center for an interview or safety check.

When you arrive, a friendly team member will greet you and anyone who comes with you. We’ll show you where you can wait, play, and relax before your interview. There are toys, books, and activities to help you feel comfortable.

You will meet two important people during your visit:

• Your Advocate – They’re here to support you and your trusted adult. They’ll answer questions, provide helpful information, and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

• Your Interviewer – This person will talk with you privately. They’re trained to ask questions in a way that feels natural and make sure you feel heard and understood.

  Before your interview, your advocate and interviewer will chat with your caregiver to go over some important details. While they talk, you can keep playing, drawing, or just hanging out—whatever makes you feel comfortable!

When it’s time for your interview, your interviewer will take you to a calm, kid-friendly room designed just for conversations like this. There are three different interview rooms, and they’ll pick the one that’s best for you.

During your interview:

• The interviewer will listen closely because your voice matters.

• They’ll ask questions, but there are no right or wrong answers—just share what you know.

• If you need a moment to think or don’t know an answer, that’s completely okay.

Your interviewer is here to support you and help you share your story in a way that feels safe.

Once your interview is over, your trusted adult will be waiting for you. While they meet with the team one last time, you can play with some toys, color, or just take a break. Before you leave, we’ll make sure you and your caregiver know what happens next and answer any questions you might have.

Talking about your experience is important, but we know it can bring up a lot of feelings—and that’s totally normal! If you ever need to talk to someone, our counselors are here to help. We can connect you with someone who will listen, support you, and help you feel better.

You’re not alone—we’re here to help, answer your questions, and support you in any way we can. If you have any questions before your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Photos of TBCAC

A big thank you

Our thanks go out to Rylee Tuggle, Laurentiu Gabriel Dumitru, US Department of Justice, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (Division of Victim Services), Northern Michigan Alliance for Children, and Intricate Designs for creating the above book, My Voice Matters: A Safe Place To Tell My Truth!