Alexandria team fighting child abuse wins state honor
Multi-disciplinary group recognized for collaboration during year of transition
Alexandria’s Multi-Disciplinary Team that responds to child abuse allegations has been named the 2025 MDT of the Year by the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Virginia at the Virginia Crimes Against Children Conference.
The Center for Alexandria’s Children announced the honor Tuesday.
The Alexandria MDT is the city’s coordinated team that responds to child abuse, bringing together professionals who work jointly to reduce trauma, support families and guide cases from initial report through investigation, treatment and prosecution.
CACVA recognized Alexandria’s MDT for exemplifying collaboration, respect and psychological safety during a year of extraordinary transition and challenge. The team chose unity over division, supporting one another with honesty, humor and deep compassion, according to the organization. New members stepped in with humility and courage while seasoned partners mentored and uplifted them, ensuring that every child and family remained at the center of their work.
“Our city’s children deserve to grow up safe, supported, and surrounded by adults who believe in them,” said Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “Alexandria’s MDT makes that possible by responding with empathy, expertise, and unity in moments that can define a child’s life.”
Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter, also a Center for Alexandria’s Children board member, praised the team’s dedication.
“There is no doubt that Alexandria’s amazing MDT, comprised of committed public servants who are motivated by their dedication to the community and to children, are richly deserving of this recognition,” Porter said. “These tireless people representing a variety of allied organizations and stakeholders, do the behind-the-scenes ‘heart work’ necessary to uplift children, ensure accountability, and honor the resiliency of survivors.”
Terri Cheshire, executive director of the Center for Alexandria’s Children, said the MDT comprises extraordinary individuals who ensure no child walks alone through fear, uncertainty or trauma.
“They work with an unwavering belief that every child deserves a safe childhood, and I am so proud to see their compassion, dedication and courage team honored at the state level,” Cheshire said.
The center, located at 4850 Mark Center Drive on the fifth floor, coordinates the MDT, provides developmentally appropriate specialized forensic interviews, facilitates case review, strengthens communication between agencies and connects children and families to services, treatment and ongoing support.
Member agencies of the Alexandria MDT include Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services Child Protective Services, DCHS Community Services Board Center for Children and Families, DCHS Sexual Assault Center, Alexandria Police Department, City Attorney’s Office, Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, Inova Health System, Alexandria Health Department and the Center for Alexandria’s Children.