About | Red River Children's Advocacy Center

About Us

Our mission is to facilitate healing and justice for victims of sexual and physical abuse, neglect, and exploitation and to engage the community to protect and support children.

What We Do

We provide a compassionate and effective way to bring services to children victimized by abuse. Our public-private collaboration significantly reduces the trauma associated with reporting child abuse. We help coordinate care and investigation from first report to conviction and beyond, while keeping the child at the center of everything the team does.

Who We Serve

Child Abuse has no boundaries. It spans across all social and economic levels, races, religions, and cultures. The Red River Children’s Advocacy Center serves victims of child abuse from Eastern North Dakota, Western Minnesota, Northeastern South Dakota, and four Native American Reservations.

Meet Our Team

Administrative Team

Sarah Matthews

Executive Director

Raelyn Soltis, LBSW

Director of Operations

Anna Schimmelpfennig, PhD, LP

Director of Mental Health Services, Licensed Psychologist

Amanda Marum

Finance Administrator

Alyssa Nelson

Program Manager, Forensic Interviewer & Family Advocate

Miranda Marum

Finance Director

Forensic Interviewers

Jessica Marynik

Forensic Interviewer

Advocacy

Kim Thompson

Family Advocate

Lindsay Schneider, LBSW

Mental Health Advocate

Julie Stene

Family Advocate, Prevention Coordinator

Chislaine Weisz

Family Advocate

Mental Health

Candace Meyer, LMSW

Mental Health Clinician

McKinley Solberg

Mental Health Program Assistant

Staff Spotlight

Julie Stene

Family Advocate & Prevention Coordinator

What is your role at RRCAC and how long have you been with RRCAC?

“As a Family Advocate and Prevention Coordinator at the RRCAC, I play an important role in supporting both children and their non-offending caregivers. I provide a safe, supportive space where children can feel comfortable telling their stories during their forensic interview and begin their healing journey. For caregivers, I offer guidance, resources, education, and a compassionate listening ear- helping them navigate a challenging time while ensuring they have the tools and support needed to move forward. In my prevention role, I focus on educating adults in the community on how to become better protectors and keep children safe from sexual abuse through the Stand to Protect curriculum. My work is centered on advocacy, healing, and prevention- supporting children and families in crisis, providing education and resources to caregivers, and empowering the community to protect children from sexual abuse. I have been with the RRCAC since August 2023 but have truly dedicated the last 23 years to working with children and families, advocating for their well-being, providing support, and striving to create safer, healthier environments for them to thrive.”

What inspired you to work at RRCAC?

“I was inspired to work at the RRCAC because of my deep commitment to supporting children and families, a passion I’ve nurtured for over 23 years in child welfare. I’m a natural helper with strong empathy and understanding and am driven to remove barriers for families in crisis. My work at the RRCAC allows me to be a source of support, advocacy, and empowerment for those who need it most, ensuring that every child and family feels seen, heard and protected.”

What do you love most about your job?

“What I love most about my job is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families. I’m passionate about providing a safe space for children to share their stories and begin their healing process, while also offering support and resources to caregivers. In addition, I find great fulfillment in educating adults in the community about childhood sexual abuse through the Stand to Protect curriculum. It’s empowering to help others understand how they can protect children and create safer environments for everyone. Being able to advocate for families in crisis and support community education truly aligns with my deep desire to help and empower others.”

What do you like to do in your free time?

“In my free time, I love to travel- especially anywhere with sunshine and a beach. Spending time with my family and friends is important to me, and I also run a small craft business selling at youth sporting events. It’s a fun and creative way to bring people together, spread team spirit, and make meaningful connections. After a week of handling the heavy realities of my full-time job, it also serves as a great outlet- giving me a chance to focus on something positive, lighthearted, and it fuels my creativity. I especially enjoy connecting with young athletes, encouraging them to play hard and, most importantly, have fun. One of the first questions I ask is, ‘Did you have fun?’ rather than focusing on the score- because what truly matters is fostering a love for the game and building confidence. Two of my favorite quotes are by Winston Churchill: ‘Never, never give up,’ and Wayne Gretzsky: ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’ Both apply not only to sports but to life itself. My goal is to inspire others to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and always give their best-because they matter.”

If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be and why?

“Santorini, Greece because it offers the perfect blend of beauty, tranquility, and cultural richness. The soft volcanic sand and crystal-clear sea would provide a peaceful escape, grounding me while the waves would bring a sense of calm. Soaking in the sunshine and warmth, surrounded by breathtaking views, would truly be rejuvenating. The rich history and stunning sunsets would spark my creativity and renew my soul, making it the ideal place to relax, recharge, and embrace the moment.”