Q) What is Dunebrook?
- Dunebrook’s legal name is The La Porte County Child Abuse Prevention Council, Inc. Dunebrook was the vision of a group of individuals who were concerned about the welfare of children in La Porte County. Some were worried that there was not enough support for parents who were at-risk for child abuse. Others were worried that children already involved in child abuse investigations did not have a comfortable, child-friendly place to tell about their abuse. The group spent several years meeting and sharing insights, concerns, and information. While exploring the best practices of agencies around the country, the concept of Dunebrook, a place where prevention and intervention work together, emerged. Today, Dunebrook is a family resource and child advocacy center supporting all families.
Q) Who does Dunebrook serve?
- Dunebrook provides home visits to more than 300 families each month throughout La Porte County. In addition, the Department of Child Services’ Community Partners for Child Safety Program named Dunebrook to coordinate services to families in Region II, consisting of La Porte, Porter, Starke, Newton, Jasper, and Pulaski Counties.
- In 2008: More than 4,600 home visits were made, 9,698 children saw Body Safety, 131 forensic interviews were performed, and 77 nurturing classes were held.
- Dunebrook is not a residential facility- children do not live here.
Q) How is Dunebrook funded?
- Dunebrook is funded through state and federal grants, private foundation and corporate grants, and individual support. As government spending on family services continues to be cut, community support becomes even more critical. Dunebrook is not a government entity. We continually research and seek out new funding opportunities to attract government and foundation dollars to the region.
Q) Do you assist in child abuse investigations?
- A) Yes, at the request of local law enforcement or child protective services, Dunebrook may conduct forensic interviews or provide a safe place for the interview. For more information, please visit our Child Advocacy Center page.
Q) How can I make gifts to Dunebrook?
- Financial gifts or in-kind gifts may be made directly to Dunebrook. Dunebrook is a 501(c)(3) organization which means that gifts to Dunebrook are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. For more information regarding donations please visit our Support Dunebrook page.
Q) What should I do if I know a child who is endangered?
- If you know or suspect child abuse, contact the local law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
- Locally, the contact numbers are: Michigan City Police at (219) 874-3221, La Porte City Police at (219) 362-9446, La Porte County Police at (219) 326-7700, Westville Police at (219) 785-4177
- Michigan City Child Protective Services at (219) 872-8440 or La Porte Child Protective Services at (219) 326-9617.
- Dunebrook cannot initiate or perform a forensic interview without the involvement and direction of law enforcement or Child Protective Services.
If you feel that your child or a child you know is in immediate danger, call 911
