Melissa Birdsell has been named the new Executive Director of the Northwest Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center.

Birdsell was named by the Board of Directors after serving as interim executive director since March 1 after former director, Joyce Estes retired. Birdsell’s term as director officially began July 20.

According to a news release, the board of directors conducted a lengthy search in May which generated a number of applicants.

“After going through an extensive process, the Board and Staff of the CAC stood behind Melissa. Her knowledge of the organization and vision for the future made her the ideal choice to take our CAC to the next level,” said Lisa Rock, Board President.

Since it began in 1993, the CAC has been working to help children who have suffered abuse or trauma in several ways. They provide a forensic (fact gathering) interview of a child when an allegation of abuse is made, and then provide free counseling to any child who has been a victim of abuse or trauma.