Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE – The K21 Health Foundation (K21) has awarded a grant of $20,000 to Lost Sparrows for their upcoming trauma conference.
The annual event provides trauma-informed education to local foster and adoptive families, teachers, therapists, social workers, church staff and community members, according to a news release from the K21 Health Foundation.
The 2023 trauma conference will be Sept. 8-9 at Warsaw Community Church. It is open to anyone wanting to learn more about developmental trauma, the impact of early childhood adversity and how to help those in pain. The program will include breakout sessions, panel discussions and keynote speakers, including Dr. Adam Sáenz, Tori Hope Petersen and Stacey Gagnon.
“We are glad to provide funding for this conference again,” said President and CEO of K21 Health Foundation Rich Haddad. “Lost Sparrows prioritizes the well-being of children and families, and the impact of trauma is a growing health concern in our community.”
In the last 20 years, research has shown a direct correlation between childhood trauma and adult illness. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can not only cause academic and behavioral problems, but also an increased risk for heart disease, depression, cancer, diabetes, obesity and more, if left unaddressed, stated the release.
“Lost Sparrows believes in a proactive approach to mental health, trauma-informed practices and suicide intervention strategies. We strive to create a culture of awareness, access and advancement of prevention and healthy living,” said Darren Gagnon, co-founder and president of Lost Sparrows. “By educating teachers and caregivers about brain development, developmental trauma, the impact of stress, connected parenting, recovering from various forms of abuse and ACEs, we are helping to change the trajectory of children’s futures. We are so thankful that K21’s partnership allows us to continue this work.”
Based in Winona Lake, Lost Sparrows aspires to end the orphan crisis by supporting foster and adoptive families so that every child has an opportunity to thrive. Lost Sparrows offers programs that deliver education on the orphan crisis, as well as resources for families and children in need, according to the release.
To view the Trauma Conference schedule and registration information, visit www.lsconference.org.
For details about K21’s work in the community and current projects, visit www.K21healthfoundation.org.
