We now know that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can impact lifelong health and opportunities and that ACEs are incredibly common. 1 in 6 adults have experienced four or more types of ACEs growing up. However, ACEs can be prevented and there is much we can do to heal existing trauma.

“Childhood trauma increases the risk for seven out of ten of the leading causes of death in the United States. In high doses, it affects brain development, the immune system, hormonal systems, and even the way our DNA is read and transcribed. Folks who are exposed in very high doses have triple the lifetime risk of heart disease and lung cancer and a 20-year difference in life expectancy.” – Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, Founder of Center for Youth Wellness and current Surgeon General of California

This is why the Creating a Resilient Community Network came together to create the Why Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences (PACEs) Matter Workshop:

In this workshop, participants will learn the basics of the science of Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences (PACEs), trauma, toxic stress and the brain. Additionally, we will touch on additional realms of adversity that can negatively impact individual and community wellbeing. This workshop will also discuss trauma informed practices, protective factors, and strategies that promote individual healing and resilience.

Program Facilitators:

• Ann Pimentel-Kerr, Children's Advocacy Center Specialist at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, Orlando Health
• Kelsey Visser, Community Resilience Program Manager at the Peace and Justice Institute at Valencia College

Program Partners:

This program is being offered for free thanks to the following community partners:

• The Creating a Resilient Community Network
• The Peace and Justice Institute at Valencia College
• The Children’s Advocacy Center at the Howard Phillips Center for Children and Families