Across the United States, over 70% of the people who work in the human services and healthcare fields of trauma-informed care are themselves survivors of trauma. These are folks with incredible insight into what it takes for a child to heal. They know, personally, the internal courage and re-learning that is mustered to overcome the damage done through trauma.
I am blessed to see these healing people at work every day. They are superheroes who can speak hope to our children with the confidence of experience.
I am sharing a part of an email sent to one of our direct care teams regarding communication with a new child. The compassion and natural understanding this staff person shows a tiny, scared, 10-year-old boy makes me so grateful. l believe that God brought this person to work at the Ranch.
“When I accidentally messed up a puzzle, Nolan worked to put it back together. I thanked him for "fixing the problem I made," and he commented, 'That's my job, to fix everyone's problems.' I told Nolan that a helping character is a beautiful quality to have, but it is not his job or responsibility to fix anyone else's problem. He seemed taken aback as if he had never been told it wasn't his responsibility. This is just a reminder that the most minor things can build your relationships with the kiddos! Take time to talk and learn about them. Nolan is quite willing to share once you get him going!”
Imagine being 10 years old and thinking that all the chaos that surrounds you was yours to fix. Now imagine finding out it maybe isn’t.
Please keep our staff and children in your prayers.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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