The Dickerson Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) cut the ribbon on its new 4,000-sq.-ft. facility on Gibson Road in Lexington Thursday afternoon.

The DCAC provides services for abused children, including forensic interviews, medical exams, mental health assistance and victim advocate services.

Elizabeth Taylor, DCAC Board Chairwoman, thanked Nettie Dickerson, who donated a building for the center in West Columbia more than 20 years ago. Many of the Dickerson Family are still involved with raising funds for DCAC.

DCAC Executive Director Carol Yarborough said abused children needed one-place in one-stop to get critical services. She also said the agency had outgrown its former venue on Augusta Road in West Columbia. More space and upgraded facilities will help the DCAC staff be more efficient.

Lexington County Council Chairman Todd Cullum of Cayce said the good work of the Dickerson Center reflects positively on Lexington County. He also talked about his longtime friendship with the Dickerson Family and praised them for their contributions to the community.

Other speakers included Lt. Gov. Henry McMaster: said State Sen. Katrina Shealy of Lexington; Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon; S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson; and Lexington Mayor Steve MacDougall. Pastor Alex Twedt of Transfiguration Lutheran Church blessed the building.