Working Faith: A University-Community Collaboration to Support Trauma-Informed, Healing-Centered Practices within Faith Communities, Faith Alliances Inspired to Help (f.a.i.t.h.)

What is it about?

The impact of trauma is pervasive and prevalent in communities across the globe. Exposure to traumatic events can yield an increased risk of mental, emotional and physical illness over the lifespan, especially in Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Communities. Members of these communities often seek information and healing within their respective faith organization. In public health crisis, such as the Coronavirus, government, medical and human service agencies called on faith leaders to disseminate information, support intervention efforts and address community trauma. Faith Leaders in BIPOC communities represent trusted helpers even though most have not been formally trained in counseling, mental health and/or trauma. A counselor education program in the United States sought to explore how to increase the community engagement and support in the city where they are located. This urban city has a significant BIPOC presence and communities impacted by gun violence, poverty and health disparities. This outreach led to the development of a collaboration with faith leaders to explore ways to implement healing practices in the community. Through this collaboration, faith leaders receive training to understand the manifestation and impact of trauma and how to promote healing in the communities where they serve.

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