Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore recently teamed with the Baltimore City Health Department to provide trauma-informed care training for its employees with support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Over 40 Boys & Girls Clubs staff members from across Maryland attended the program on January 26 that is part of a yearlong statewide calendar of trainings supported by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (BJAG).
Trauma-informed approach is an organizational structure and treatment framework that involves the understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of all types of trauma. This helps survivors rebuild a sense of control and empowerment. Maryland’s Office of Youth and Trauma Services is offering training and resources for organizations interested in using a trauma-informed care approach to address any workplace concerns. The trainings are designed to educate and inform staff on what trauma is, how to address trauma and how to create an organization with staff who are aware of trauma and its effects.
BGCMB’s Vice President for Impact Y’landa Burch explains, “These statewide trainings will be instrumental in preparing our youth-developmental professionals to build trusting relationships and improve long-term health outcomes for our members.”
Topics for future statewide trainings include Adverse Childhood Experiences, compassion fatigue and utilizing restorative circles for conflict resolution. For more information about the statewide training program, contact Y'landa Burch at yburch@bgcmetrobaltimore.org.
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