Business Community

Businesses and organizations in the local community play an influential role in providing workers with opportunities and incomes and give the public access to goods and services. Many decision-makers may be wondering, “How does trauma or resilience apply to my establishment and why does it matter to our operations?” While these organizations create the community marketplace they also interact in the public with consumers and in private with employees. Thus, advocating for a healthier workforce as well as citizens cultivates conditions where economic growth can be advanced and the community can further prosper.

Utilizing a trauma-informed lens could support a safe and respectful workplace and present an environment where consumer needs are met. Additionally, expanding one’s knowledge of trauma-informed care doesn’t cost anything other than one’s time and energy.

Elevating this type of practice is in the best interest of a community’s welfare and has benefits that far exceed the investment. For this initiative to be effective the community needs to collaborate as a collective and cooperate toward the common good.

Research-Supported Benefits of Building Resilience in Businesses and Organizations

• Enhancements in Workforce Functioning and Productivity
• Greater Skills in Managing Stress and Adapting to Changes
• The Ability to Transition More Easily, Aiding Innovation and Success
• Less Absenteeism and Tardiness of Employees
• Elevated Employee Health and Well-being, and Reduced Healthcare Costs
• Improvements to Workplace Environment and Culture

Please review the resources and tools for more information on being a trauma-informed business or organization and advancing resilience on a community level.

“Public Policies”
By: JBS International, Inc. and Georgetown University National Technical Assistance Center for Children’s Mental Health
Source: JBS International
Date: 2014
Time: 19:32

The “Public Policies” video is only part of a larger trauma-informed care series created by JBS International Inc. and Georgetown University. This video focuses on the realm of policy and its influence over instituting trauma-informed care cross-sectionally around the nation. Rules and regulations affect the lives of all citizens meaning there is a need to translate trauma research into practicing guidelines and service programs. Politics can be divisive and contentious at times, but there is hope in changing society’s trajectory toward resilience and growth with the assistance of evidence-based policies.

“We Can Prevent ACEs”
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Date: April 5th, 2018
Duration: 4:32

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC-P) developed the “We Can Prevent ACE’s” video in hopes of expanding population awareness and promoting prevention strategies in communities. Addressing childhood adversity is a collective effort found in building trauma-informed communities, strengthening and advancing social relationships, and empowering the formation of resilience in individuals and families. 

“Building Adult Capabilities to Improve Child Outcomes: A Theory of Change” (YouTube video)
Source: Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
Date: May 14th, 2013
Duration: (5:18)

“Building Adult Capabilities to Improve Child Outcomes: A Theory of Change” indicates the importance adult strengths and relationships in social systems can have on meeting the needs and elevating the wellness of children with a history of adversity. This video describes how adults possess the ability to provide children safety and security within their environment and interactions. Fostering these qualities into relationships can model a template for achieving resilience in children and can empower cohesion and trust in relationships. Addressing adversity isn’t limited to efforts solely focused on children, it’s part of a larger mission to improve the lives of adults so they can be of service in aiding vulnerable children.