In late 2023, recognizing the prevalence of trauma among the youth in their care, Alexander County leadership took proactive steps to address this pressing issue. Collaborating with Benchmarks, they embarked on a journey to equip their Department of Social Services (DSS) staff and foster parents with the tools and knowledge necessary to support these vulnerable individuals effectively.
Understanding the profound impact of unaddressed trauma on young lives, Alexander County DSS sought to empower caregivers and professionals alike. Their aim was clear: to break down barriers to permanency by addressing the externalizing and internalizing behaviors often exhibited by youth with trauma-related needs.
In partnership with the county, Benchmarks developed a comprehensive training program, tailored to the specific needs of child welfare professionals and caregivers. This program isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about fostering a culture of understanding, resilience, and support within the community.
The objectives of the program are ambitious yet essential:
Increasing Awareness and Understanding: By delving into the intricacies of the child welfare system, staff gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of their roles and the immense responsibility they carry.
Promoting Resilience: Armed with a deeper understanding of trauma, caregivers are better equipped to provide the nurturing and supportive environments essential for the healing and growth of the children in their care.
Fostering a Trauma-Informed Culture: Supervisors play a crucial role in shaping organizational culture. Through this program, they are empowered with the skills needed to cultivate an environment that prioritizes staff development and, by extension, the well-being of the children they serve.
Empowering Caregivers: Kinship and foster parents are at the forefront of providing stability and love to children in the foster care system. By equipping them with trauma-informed practices, this program aims to promote healthier outcomes and more stable environments for these vulnerable youth.
The program commenced in March with both staff and foster parent trainings. Initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing gratitude for the investment made in their professional development. Despite the challenges of staff turnover and limited resources, the commitment to enhancing the lives of these youth remains unwavering.
One foster parent aptly captured the sentiment shared by many: "We need more training like this... This was really helpful." As we continue on this journey of empowerment and collaboration, Benchmarks remains committed to supporting our partners and communities like Alexander County. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the county leadership and all participants for their dedication to creating a brighter future for the youth in foster care.
If you or your agency is interested in exploring Benchmarks’ training options please visit our website and take a look and our training catalog to review our virtual and face-to-face training options. If you are interested in a more tailored training program like the one described here, please reach out to jcooper@benchmarksnc.org.
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