Forum focuses on support for trauma victims

Crisis workers, a panel of experts and victims of trauma themselves presented a half-day forum Tuesday at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College on the topic of trauma-informed care.

The event, titled “Trauma-Informed Action: A Community Perspective,” was also attended by U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher and Menominee Indian School District Superintendent Wendell Waukau.

“Traumatic experiences have far-reaching effects throughout our communities,” Gallagher said. “Evidence shows that individuals who have experienced trauma face a unique set of challenges, and it’s important that human service professionals are well-versed in trauma-informed care.”

The Menominee Indian School District is acutely aware of the impact of historical trauma, Waukau said, “and we’ve worked diligently with the community, tribal clinic, teachers and staff to develop trauma-informed care and approaches for our students. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to provide the support and resources necessary so that those impacted get the help they need.”

Waukau was joined by other experts in discussing ways that communities can respond to this health issue. Emphasis was placed on supporting crisis workers, as well as building community intervention as crisis prevention and response. Additionally, the event featured leaders from law enforcement and child welfare systems who shared their experiences on the progress made in northeastern Wisconsin and discussing how services can continue to improve for youth and families.

“An event like this really brings the issue to the forefront, which is a good thing,” Waukau said. “The more we know and share with one another helps all of us.”