At PPDC, we understand that early experiences of trauma can change the architecture of a child’s brain, interfering with their ability to learn effectively and overriding their higher reasoning skills. The evidence is overwhelming, including a highly respected 20-year old Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public health study that links childhood trauma to the adult onset of chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease), depression, mental illness, violence, and being a victim of violence. Through our Richmond Promise Neighborhood Program, we are offering trauma informed care training sessions to parents, community residents, partners, volunteers and PPDC staff.

Facilitated by Dr. Allison Sampson-Jackson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Sex Offender Practitioner in the State of Virginia; and John Richardson-Lauve, the Guidance Clinic Program Manager at ChildSavers; the Trauma 101 training provides insight and tools to combat the effects of childhood trauma. Students who experience regular or even daily events of trauma, may have challenges expressing their emotions and struggle with behavioral issues in and outside of the classroom. Dr. Allison Sampson-Jackson’s workshop arms participants with the awareness of what trauma can look like with a focus on concrete resilience building efforts since research proves that resilience trumps trauma.

A small trigger like turning off a light or the sound of truck driving past, may cause a child to freeze, fight, or flee. Building resilience focuses on responding to a child’s need versus their behavior. A child may act out because of the trauma they experience and a teacher or guardian may instinctively reprimand the child or even spank them. The Trauma 101 training encourages alternative responses to build a child’s resiliency. For example, training participants are taught when a child “acts out” to ask, “What happened to you?” or “Are you okay?” Instead of “what’s wrong with you?” In our Peter Paul community, we know that many of our neighbors experience trauma. Our goal is to increase awareness of the adverse effects of trauma and offer opportunities for an informed care approach focused on building resilience skills for our kids, their families and the community.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating in a Trauma 101 training, please contact Gwen at gcreighton@peterpauldevcenter.org . The next training will be held on Friday, August 7 from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church, 1719 N. 22nd St (across from Peter Paul Development Center). Click here to register!