The Child Protection Center in Kansas City is a safe haven for families who are dealing with trauma. Founded in 1996, it has been a child-friendly place where children and adolescents can heal from their pain. The professionals at CPC conduct forensic interviews with any child who is the alleged victim of violence or abuse. In 1996, they did fewer than 350 interviews, and in 2024, they conducted more than 950. Recordings of the interviews lessen the number of times the child must relay a painful story. CPC wants to build a healthier community by leading a multidisciplinary response through the prevention, identification, and treatment of child abuse and violence. This is the harsh reality we all live in, and these treatment specialists are angels in their extremely difficult job parameters.
Having said that, CPC also finds the most joyful and fun ways to raise funds for their very serious and much-needed work. One of Our Town’s favorite occasions is the traditional Holidays in Crestwood, where young and old alike can celebrate holiday cheer and shop the fabulous Crestwood shops. Ten percent of all sales during the event will benefit the Child Protection Center. Chairing the much-loved event this year are Amy Embry, Katie McCune, and Carrie McLiney, and it will take place from December 4th through the 6th.
One of the best parts of the celebration is the Gingerbread House Competition, where local chefs make amazing gingerbread houses, and they will be on display in Crestwood from November 28th through December 10th. The public can bid on the houses, and a panel of judges will declare a winner – the viewing is a great family activity. Also on the agenda are musical performances, hot chocolate at Aixois, a holiday photo with Santa and his sleigh, and the Annual Luncheon on December 5th at 11:00. For more information, visit cpckc.org.
Featured in the November 1, 2025 issue of The Independent
