IDHS Virtual Learning Communities were created to complement the Capacity Building Assessment Tool for Organizations (CBAT-O). All IDHS funded organizations are expected to attend at least one Virtual Learning Community session. The goal is to support organizations in their focus of developing a strategic plan for implementing trauma-informed change while considering each organization’s strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threats.

Learning communities will emphasize peer-to-peer provider learning through breakout rooms, small group discussion/ activity, and resource sharing. Members of the ICOY Trauma Initiatives and Prevention & Intervention Teams will be leading breakout room discussions and sharing resources with participants. During each session, participants will choose to participate in a discussion on one of the 4 unique topics including:

1. Youth and Family Engagement & In-Person Program Challenges.
2. Violence, Trauma, and Community Safety.
3. Vicarious Trauma & Staff Wellbeing and Retention.
4. COVID & Stress

Please note ALL participants will be required to have their camera and audio on during this session.

Trainers: ICOY Trauma Team & Maribel Gonzalez (Illinois Juvenile Justice Manager)

Two continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses.