Innovations in Trauma-Informed Care: Building the Nation's First System of Trauma-Informed Recreation Centers

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Public Health
• Trauma-Informed Care

Background:

• Adversity and trauma negatively impact multiple domains of well-being.
• Recreation centers are community hubs with potential for healing and support.
• Existing trauma-informed care models do not align well with recreation center structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the five-year transformation of Cleveland's recreation centers into trauma-informed Neighborhood Resource and Recreation Centers (NRRCs).
• To embed trauma-informed care principles into the organizational culture of community centers.

Main Methods:

• Phase 1: Transitioned centers to NRRCs, hired social workers/counselors, and trained staff on trauma.
• Phase 2: Developed NRRC trauma-informed standards, a progress tracking tool, and leadership competencies.
• Ongoing training for social workers and counselors was provided.

Main Results:

• Recreation centers were successfully transitioned into NRRCs, integrating trauma-informed care.
• New standards, tools, and leadership competencies were developed to support the initiative.
• Staff received training to foster a trauma-informed organizational culture.

Conclusions:

• The transformation of recreation centers into NRRCs provides a model for embedding trauma-informed care in community settings.
• Lessons learned from this initiative can inform future efforts to create supportive environments for individuals affected by trauma.
• Continued development and training are crucial for sustaining trauma-informed practices.