Union County Review

THANK YOU NORTHFIELD BANK FOUNDATION

Thanks to the generous support from the Northfield Bank Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County was able to develop and implement a Trauma Informed Approach to Emotional Wellness Program. 

With the support of this grant, the Boys & Girls Club found that Trauma-informed behaviors are deliberate and purposeful activities that result in more connections, outcomes, and experiences, unlocking the possibility for higher prospects in ourselves and, especially, those we serve. This approach is based on the idea that activities and environments can have an impact on others. 

This support provided an opportunity to begin the process of achieving the goal of becoming a trauma informed organization.

The organization found that adopting a trauma informed approach is not accomplished through any single particular technique or checklist. It required constant attention, caring, awareness, sensitivity, and finally a cultural change at an organizational level.

The trauma informed approach that was adopted involved understanding, recognizing and responding to the effects of all types of trauma. Trauma awareness, knowledge and skills were integrated into our organizational culture, practices and policies.

Through staff meetings, board committee work and to support of our national organization, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The Club adopted the six guiding principles that support our club programs and services: safety, trustworthiness and transparency, peer support, collaboration, empowerment and cultural, historical and gender issues.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County offers youth programs in three communities in Union County: Plainfield, Elizabeth and Union. Members participate in character building, leadership, career preparation and community service activities throughout the year. Aquatics instruction is available at the Union club. For more information on our clubs and programs, please visit our website www.bgcuc.org or contact us at 908-687-2697.

Original source can be found here.