ALBEMARLE, N.C. — Stanly Community College’s Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) program has earned national accreditation from Zero Abuse Project, making Stanly Community College (SCC) the fifth CAST program in the nation and the first in North Carolina to achieve the designation.
The accreditation recognizes the quality of SCC’s program and allows students who complete the courses to receive a national credential that few institutions can offer.
“We are incredibly proud to have Stanly Community College’s Child Advocacy Studies program recognized as the first nationally accredited CAST program in North Carolina and only the fifth in the nation,” said Dr. Kara Finch, Dean of Health Sciences and Public Services and a North Carolina CAST coordinator. “This accreditation represents more than a milestone for our college. It reflects our commitment to preparing students and professionals with the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognize child maltreatment, respond in trauma-informed ways, and advocate effectively for children and families. Children need well-prepared advocates in every system they encounter, from education and health care to human services, public safety, and the justice system. I am grateful to everyone who has supported the growth of CAST at Stanly Community College and excited about the opportunities this recognition creates for our students and the children and families they will serve.”
CAST is an evidence-based, interdisciplinary program focused on child maltreatment. Zero Abuse Project, the nonprofit organization that accredits CAST programs, works to eliminate child sexual abuse by training and educating professionals, students and institutions. Through hands-on learning and practical skill development, CAST prepares students to recognize and respond to abuse and neglect, advocate for vulnerable children and work across disciplines to support survivors.
SCC offers CAST courses through curriculum and continuing education pathways. Students can pursue an associate degree, diploma or certificate through the Social and Human Services program. The four-course continuing education sequence can be completed in one year or less and can qualify for credit toward SCC’s associate degree in Social and Human Services.
For more information about SCC’s Child Advocacy Studies program, visit Child Advocacy Studies or contact Dr. Kara Finch at kfinch0899@stanly.edu or 704.991.0338.