Mayor Jean Stothert Proclaims Omaha Trauma Informed Community

Mayor Jean Stothert proclaimed Omaha as a Trauma Informed Community on Friday, December 9, at 7:30 a.m. at an event hosted by Project Harmony (www.projectharmony.com).

“The Trauma Informed Community initiative is a collaborative effort to create a safe, supportive and engaging community,” said Project Harmony Executive Director Gene Klein. “Together, we will provide the tools and supports necessary to break systemic cycles of trauma and to create a healthy and resilient community.”

“Nebraska Families Collaborative (NFC) is a Trauma Informed Community partner with Project Harmony. Too many families in Omaha have faced trauma in their lives, and NFC wants to be a part of the solution. The Mayor’s proclamation is a key step in raising the awareness about families affected by trauma and resources that can help them to heal and thrive,” said Dave Newell President & CEO of Nebraska Families Collaborative.

In Douglas and Sarpy County, it is estimated that 48,000 children K-8 have suffered from a traumatic event.

“Unfortunately, we cannot live in a world without trauma. But we can live in a community where people have the knowledge and training to reduce the impact of trauma and build resilience,” said Dr. Adi Pour, director of the Douglas County Health Department.

Project Harmony was honored to welcome Epidemiologist Gary Slutkin of Cure Violence, who has created science-based strategies that aim to reduce violence by 40 to 70 percent.

“Trauma has a profound impact on the behavioral health of individuals and families,” said Dr. Howard Liu, child psychiatrist and director of the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN). “We believe every licensed behavioral health professional should be trained in trauma informed care, and are working closely with training programs to make this a priority. This collaborative effort to become a Trauma Informed Community is invaluable in building awareness about the effects of trauma and strengthening our ability as a community to address these concerns.”