Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC) has been selected as a Trauma-Informed Intensive Resource Training Hub. This prestigious recognition was awarded by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) through a highly competitive application process. As part of this recognition, BGCLC hosted a TI Intensive Training for staff from Clubs across the region which occurred on December 4 – 6 at BGCLC’s Loveland-Pulliam Club location. 50 staff members from Clubs across the region joined BGCLC to broaden their trauma-informed knowledge.
The 3-day training was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of the impact of trauma and help them develop tools to create supportive environments that prioritize the seven elements of trauma-informed Clubs: safety, trust, empowerment, awareness, equity, connection, and collaboration.
The training was led by trauma-informed staff from different areas of BGCLC including the award-winning Behavioral Health Team and Club Directors. Participants had the opportunity to network and share expertise with other participating Clubs. Additionally, visiting Clubs received advice, support, and resources for their organizations.
Christine Cunningham, BGCLC’s Director of Behavioral Health and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, says her biggest hope is that participants gained a deeper understanding of trauma-informed practice, and how they can implement it at their Clubs.
“The process starts with the board and should circle to all staff. It’s an organization-wide process, not one person’s responsibility. And the outcome is a better Club experience for all youth,” Cunningham said.
The three days also consisted of games, scavenger hunts, and prizes. On the second day, Colorado State University’s Human-Animal Bond in Colorado (HABIC) visited, allowing participants to visit with therapy dogs.
Participants included: Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Holloman AFB Youth Program, Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton County, Yellowstone County, Douglas County, Greater Dallas, San Luis Valley, South Central Kansas, and Cook County. A second Trauma-Informed Intensive Training is set for later this year.
