In 2024, Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County (BGCLC) was 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, and after a successful first year, BGCLC hosted our second annual TI Intensive Training for staff from Clubs across the Southwest Region. The training took place from October 8 to 10 at our 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, Club Directors and staff, Admin staff, and BGCLC Executive Leadership. 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.
“This is a journey that requires all levels of the organization to recognize and support process. We want our youth to know they are safe, seen and heard at the Club,” Cunningham said.
