Collier Children’s Advocacy Center named SWFL Inc. Nonprofit of the Year

Collier Children’s Advocacy Center was the recipient of the 2026 Nonprofit of the Year Award, recognizing the organization’s four decades of leadership and service to abused and neglected children in Collier County. The award was presented during SWFL Inc.’s annual INCredible Awards ceremony.

The Nonprofit of the Year Award honors a nonprofit organization that is recognized as a leader within Lee, Collier or Charlotte County and throughout the nonprofit sector. For 40 years, Collier CAC has served as Collier County’s child advocacy center and first point of care when child abuse is suspected. The organization provides forensic interviews, specialized medical exams, trauma-focused therapy and family advocacy services in one child-centered setting at no cost to families.
Today, Collier CAC serves more than 1,400 children and family members annually and coordinates the multidisciplinary review of more than 2,149 suspected abuse cases each year. In 2024 alone, the organization delivered 1,675 hours of trauma-focused therapy to children and families navigating the effects of abuse and trauma.

“This an incredible honor and a reflection of the dedicated professionals, partners and supporters who work tirelessly to protect vulnerable children every day,” said Jackie Stephens, CEO of Collier CAC. “This recognition reinforces the importance of ensuring every child in our community has access to safety, healing and hope. We are proud to serve Collier County families and grateful to SWFL Inc. for recognizing the critical work being done to protect children and strengthen our community.”