The National Children’s Alliance has accredited the Center for Alexandria’s Children following an extensive application process.

The accrediting agency “awards various levels of accreditation and membership to centers responding to allegations of child abuse in ways that are effective and efficient, and put the needs of child victims of abuse first,” and is the highest level of membership in the organization, according to a statement from CAC.

“The awarding of accreditation to the Center for Alexandria’s Children … is the culmination of years of planning and hard work on the part of many public and private individuals,” said Giselle Pelaez, CAC executive director.

The CAC provides “comprehensive, coordinated and compassionate services” to victims of child abuse. It was founded in 2000 after an Alexandria preschooler was killed by her mother’s boyfriend, shortly after being returned to her mother’s custody.