Project Self-Sufficiency to host virtual workshops on childhood trauma and resilience
NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — Project Self-Sufficiency will host a series of free virtual workshops this spring aimed at educating the public about adverse childhood experiences and promoting healing, resilience and prevention in the community.
The workshops will address the impact of childhood trauma on development and health while offering strategies to support survivors and strengthen community connections.
The first session, “Understanding ACEs: Building Self-Healing Communities,” will take place Wednesday, March 25, at 3 p.m. The presentation will focus on the neurological and biological effects of adversity during childhood and how those experiences can affect health outcomes across a person’s lifespan.
Two additional sessions in the “Connections Matter” series will explore the role of supportive relationships in reducing the long-term impact of trauma. The workshop will be offered virtually in English on Tuesday, April 21, at 2 p.m., and in Spanish on Wednesday, April 22, at 2 p.m.
Organizers said the sessions are designed for parents, caregivers, educators and community providers who work with children and families.
Participants will learn how childhood trauma can affect social, emotional and cognitive development and how supportive relationships can help buffer the negative effects of those experiences.
Adverse childhood experiences, often referred to as ACEs, generally fall into three categories: abuse, neglect and household dysfunction. Research has linked ACEs to increased risks of health and behavioral challenges later in life, including substance use, mental health issues and chronic diseases.
According to Project Self-Sufficiency, an estimated 67% of people experience at least one adverse childhood experience.
The workshops are funded by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and will be led by Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey.
“Our goal is to help make our community a place in which every child can thrive by providing education and training on adverse childhood experiences and assuring safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments,” said Deborah Berry-Toon, executive director of Project Self-Sufficiency.
She added that prevention and resilience-building strategies highlighted in the workshops can help improve public health and reduce long-term social and economic costs.
All sessions will be held on Zoom and are free and open to the public. Participants can register or request login information by calling 973-940-3500.
