Children's Advocacy Center of the Coastal Bend

06/05/2026

Today is our Portland Blood Drive.

Come donate blood and help save lives in our community.

10 AM – 12 PM
209 Cedar Dr.

Walk-ins welcome.

06/04/2026

Tomorrow is our Portland Blood Drive.

Join us Friday, June 5th from 10 AM – 12 PM at 209 Cedar Dr.

Thank you to everyone helping us spread the word and support this effort.

06/04/2026

Full Name: Génesis Torres
Credentials/Title: Bilingual Forensic Interviewer

How long have you worked in this field?
1 year and 9 months

What inspired you to become a forensic interviewer?
I was inspired to become a forensic interviewer because I wanted to be a voice for children and individuals who may not be able to speak for themselves. Children are often overlooked or may struggle to share their experiences, and forensic interviewing provides them with a safe space to tell their truth. Being able to help create that opportunity for them is incredibly meaningful to me.

What is one thing you wish the community understood about forensic interviewing?
I wish the community understood that forensic interviewers are neutral fact-finders. We follow a semi-structured, child-centered process designed to gather information while minimizing additional trauma. We do not pressure or force children to talk if they are not ready. Our goal is to provide a safe environment where children can share their experiences at their own pace.

What does being a safe space for children mean to you?
Being a safe space means advocating for children, listening to them without judgment, and helping them feel heard and supported. It means being part of positive change within our community and ensuring that children know their voices matter. Knowing that I can make even a small difference in a child's life makes me proud of the work I do every day.

What keeps you motivated in this work?
The children themselves. Talking with children is my favorite part of the job. Their resilience, honesty, and unique personalities inspire me every day. Even during difficult cases, they remind me why this work is so important.

How do you mentally prepare for a forensic interview?
Preparation is very important to me. I make sure I get enough rest, eat a good breakfast, and review the topics that may need to be discussed during the interview. I think carefully about how I will approach the conversation using the skills and training I have received. I also seek guidance from my forensic interview supervisor when needed. Most importantly, I pray before every interview and ask God to give me wisdom, discernment, and the ability to help the child in the best way possible.
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Thank you Genesis for your love and dedication in helping make a difference in your community.

06/03/2026

Thank you City of Taft, TX Police Department for your support.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Coastal Bend will be hosting the Coastal Bend Blood Center at their Portland location

📍 209 Cedar Dr.
📅 Friday 06/05/2026
🕙 10:00AM - 12:00PM.

06/03/2026

Credentials/Title: Alexia Montemayor B.S., Bilingual Forensic Interviewer/ Family Advocate

How long have you worked in this field? "1 year and 9 months"

What inspired you to become a forensic interviewer?
"I was inspired to become a forensic interviewer because it allows me to support children in a way
that is both structured and compassionate. I truly believe it only takes one positive interaction with a trusted adult to create alasting impact in a child's life. I strive to be that person during what can be one of their most difficult moments. "

What is one thing you wish the community understood about forensic interviewing?

"Forensic interviewing requires a unique set of skills, strategy, and evidence-based practices to ensure a trauma-informed response of child abuse cases.
It is beyond speaking with a child and advocating for a child. It requires empathy, understanding, and successful engagement."

What does being a safe space for children mean to you?
"It means being able to listen and understand without fear of judgement. It means being able to navigate through a child's outcry by providing non-verbal communication and support."

What keeps you motivated in this work?
"A child will always remember the person who listened, cared, and was empathetic of their situation. A forensic interviewer holds a very important role of the child's first step in the healing process."

How do you mentally prepare for an FI?
"I ensure mental clarity by using grounding techniques, re-center my role to remain neutral and present. I focus on structure, building rapport with the child, and ensuring a safe and open space for children to share their lived experiences. "
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Thank you, Alexia, for the compassion and dedication you bring to this work everyday.

06/02/2026

Today is the day!!

Stop by our Kingsville Blood Drive from 11 AM – 1 PM and help support patients and families in need.

Walk-ins welcome.

Location: 219 W. Kleberg

06/01/2026

Tomorrow is our Kingsville Blood Drive.

Join us Tuesday, June 2nd from 11 AM – 1 PM at 219 W. Kleberg.

Every donation matters and helps save lives. We hope to see you there.

05/29/2026

Our blood drives are just around the corner.

We’re asking our communities to come together and help make a difference through blood donation.

Appointments are highly recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Call 361-855-4943 to schedule your appointment.

05/28/2026

Portland community mark your calendars.

The CAC Coastal Bend Blood Drive will take place Friday, June 5th from 10 AM – 12 PM at:
209 Cedar Dr.

Help save lives and support our local communities by donating blood.

05/26/2026

Kingsville community, we need your help.

Join us Tuesday, June 2nd from 11 AM – 1 PM at:
219 W. Kleberg

Help us spread the word by sharing this post with friends and family.

Walk-ins are welcome.