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square bulletIt Doesn’t Have to Be a Formal Training to Make an Impact!

A group of people smile at an informal training where individuals are relaxed

Hi! I’m Ashley Davenport (Beatty). I’m currently serving in the role of Safety and Prevention Specialist with the High Desert Education Service District. Previously, I have been employed with State of Oregon Child Welfare for 12 years and the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office for 9 years. It was in these roles that I learned of Trauma Informed Oregon and developed a passion for trauma informed care (TIC). While working with the DA’s Office, I was fortunate to be able to take the Train the Trainer course offered through the DOJ with a multidisciplinary team from Deschutes County.

Introducing Trauma Informed Care to Local Law Enforcement

In my role at the DA’s Office, I was able to present TIC to one of our local jurisdictions of law enforcement. This was an incredible experience for me because my “why” stems from my understanding of the impact of repeated exposure to traumatic events on our first responders. I like to share the analogy of an older car: For these cars to work, they need GAS (someone to G-give A-a S-sh*t). It’s the same concept for people. A person needs TIC to be a healthy, happy and productive member in our community, which stems from someone investing, respecting and caring about who they are and how they experience the world. We can’t prevent trauma, but we can absolutely make how someone experiences and heals from trauma a better experience.

Serving Students with Trauma Informed Care

For the past year, I have been serving our community’s students! While this has been an adjustment, it has been an incredible experience. Our education system is plagued with similar challenges that we see in the criminal justice system—under-resourced, overburdened, etc. To continue making an impact, I have encouraged our systems to use a TIC lens when looking at our students’ behaviors. It’s amazing what an impact this can make! Please keep in mind that these conversations can make an impact just like a formal training.

Bringing Trauma Informed Care to Organizations

As for the future, I am excited to share that I started working with a community service organization to help them in their journey to become more trauma informed and increase their workforce wellness. It’s amazing what we can do when we realize our impact.