Gov. Walker Declares May 2018 Trauma-Informed Care Awareness Month

Gov. Scott Walker declared May 2018 as Trauma-Informed Care Awareness Month and May 22, 2018 as Trauma-Informed Care Day in Wisconsin.

When the Governor signed the proclamation, he stated, “Trauma-Informed Care is a way to improve the lives of children and families throughout Wisconsin. With the leadership of my wife, First Lady Tonette Walker, our state has become a leader incorporating Trauma-Informed Care into state and county programs and policies.”

Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) shifts perspectives. Rather than blaming people for their problems and asking “What’s wrong with you?” trauma-informed providers ask “What’s happened to you?”

TIC includes creating safe and welcoming spaces so individuals feel not only physically safe, but also emotionally and psychologically safe.

The Door County Department of Human Services, along with community partners, have been working hard for the past two years to become more trauma-informed. The public is invited to an Open House Celebration May 22, 1-3pm in the Government Center to learn about their journey. The event features a demonstration of a therapeutic drumming circle led by JAK’s Place, displays from an art therapy group, a hands-on sensory/relaxation project, tours of Human Services’ renovated spaces, educational materials, and refreshments. For more information visit fosteringfutureswisconsin.org.