When a report of child abuse is made in Finney County and across Western Kansas, Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center (WKCAC) is often the first call—and the first safe place—for a child in crisis. Guided by its mission to heal the trauma of abuse through prevention, support, and services, WKCAC plays a critical role in protecting children while ensuring their voices are heard with dignity, care, and compassion.

Founded to address the urgent and ongoing need for child-centered abuse response, WKCAC is designed to prioritize safety, comfort, and stability during one of the most difficult moments in a child’s life. From the moment a child enters the center, every detail—from private interview rooms to comfort-filled spaces stocked with blankets, hygiene items, toys, and necessities—is intentionally created to reduce fear and trauma.

Two four-legged team members, Zeus and Marshmellow, serve as certified comfort dogs, offering calm companionship to children navigating overwhelming situations. Their presence, along with the dedication of WKCAC’s trained staff, reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to placing children first.

A Coordinated, Child-Focused Response

WKCAC works closely with local law enforcement, the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), medical professionals, and the Finney County Attorney’s Office to provide a coordinated response to reports of abuse. Once a case is referred to the WKCAC by local law enforcement or DCF, WKCAC schedules a forensic interview conducted by one of their specially trained forensic interviewers in a one-on-one, child-friendly setting. This interview is observed in a separate room, allowing investigators and case partners to observe without requiring the child to repeatedly retell their story.

Each child is assigned a dedicated advocate who remains with them throughout the process—from the initial interview through the investigation and beyond. Even after the investigation is closed, advocates continue supporting families by connecting them with long-term resources such as therapy, medical care, and additional services as needed.

The staffers at WKCAC are not law enforcement themselves, they work with law enforcement but have very different priorities. WKCAC is there for the safety and security of the child, whereas law enforcement is there to determine any crimes or if there is a need for intervention. 

Strong Leadership and Expanding Reach

Executive Director, Layla Mumgaard, leads WKCAC with passion and purpose, overseeing an organization that has experienced remarkable growth since its early days operating out of a room in the basement of the Santana Hospital in 2004. Development Director, Dionicio “Don” Rivera, supports fundraisers and community engagement, working closely with staff to advance the center’s mission.

WKCAC has grown from a two-person team, Kelly Robbins and David Fyler in 2004, to opening the Garden City Facility in 2017 and conducting its first interview in 2018, to approximately 23 staff members in 2026. Today, the organization operates a network of satellite offices in Liberal, Sublette, Colby, Scott City, Garden City, and Hays, supported by six mobile units—including forensic interview buses, a medical unit, and mobile therapy units.

WKCAC’s mobile services ensure children and families are not burdened by travel during already traumatic circumstances. The center willingly serves outside its designated region when needed, reaching into neighboring counties—and even across state lines into Oklahoma and Colorado—because, as Layla noted, WKCAC will not say no to a child in need. 

Community Partnerships and Education

Collaboration is at the heart of WKCAC’s impact. The organization partners with Finney County United Way, Women of Purpose-Western Kansas Community Foundation, CASA, Family Crisis Services, Compass Behavioral Health, local public schools, and numerous other agencies to strengthen the safety net for children and families.

Public education is another cornerstone of the center’s work. WKCAC is a part of the Finney County SANE/SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) who provides mandated reporter training to school staff, community organizations, and professionals, as well as prevention-focused programs such as “Protecting Your Children.” These efforts help raise awareness, improve early intervention, and build a more informed and proactive community.

The staff at WKCAC actively prioritizes their own education, with every individual getting annual training, such as attending Kansas ChildFirst for forensic interviewing protocols. 

Looking Ahead

As community needs continue to evolve, WKCAC’s vision remains forward-focused. Thanks to support from many sponsors, donors, and community members, the process to expand services by including a medical examination room and additional therapy rooms has already begun. WKCAC went to work immediately, hoping to have these rooms functional as soon as possible. 

Key priorities for the next few years include expanding medical services to be accessible 24/7—particularly in Garden City—and introducing prevention curricula in schools, such as Erin’s Law. The organization is also in the process of fundraising to expand even further in their space, hoping to fully renovate and occupy a dormant upstairs area, suitable for many more service options. .

Funding remains the organization’s greatest challenge, as all services are provided at no cost to families. Community support—from businesses, organizations, and individuals—is essential to sustaining and expanding this life-changing work.

A Call to the Business Community

WKCAC encourages local businesses and community members to get involved through sponsorships, donations, fundraisers, and volunteer support for events such as toy or bag drives. Volunteers assist behind the scenes with events, fundraising, cleaning, and office support, while interns—particularly for therapy services—help expand capacity.

One upcoming opportunity to support the mission is the Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser this April 25th at The Refinery, featuring a live auction, dinner, diamonds giveaway, and community fellowship during Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Above all, Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center is most proud of being a voice for children—especially when no one else will be. They are here for the kids.