March News 2025

Our Collaborative consists of school systems, agencies, and non-profits dedicated to supporting children and families in the community. Many of the families we engage with have faced adversity or trauma, and as we listen to their stories and strive to assist them, we can sometimes begin to feel the impacts of secondary trauma. Prolonged exposure to secondary trauma without effective resiliency strategies can lead individuals to experience burnout or compassion fatigue, causing their usual compassionate approach towards youth and families to be tested. Compassion fatigue can develop gradually, often going unnoticed. Clinical child psychologist Ross Green describes it as a reduction in a person's ability to empathize with those who are suffering.

Professionals may find themselves more vulnerable to compassion fatigue during periods of heightened personal stress, such as welcoming a new child or caring for an elderly parent. What are the symptoms of compassion fatigue? They include irritability, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, feeling overwhelmed, and a decline in job satisfaction in roles that once brought joy. Can anyone relate to this experience?

If you're reading this and resonate with these feelings, you might be wondering if there’s light at the end of the tunnel. The encouraging news is that hope exists! Cultivating compassionate resilience skills and practicing self-care can help ease some of the pressures you're facing. In the "Our Stories" section of the monthly newsletter, I will begin sharing a Compassion Resilience Tip of the Month. Join me on this journey, and together we can restore our compassionate spirit!

For more information about Compassion Fatigue and Resources, see this source from WISE, End Stigma Together.

Believe Greater Dalton received the inaugural "Georgia Reads Community Award" and a $25,000 literacy grant for its collaborative efforts in improving literacy in Dalton-Whitfield County. The award was presented at "Georgia Reads Day" at the State Capitol, recognizing 10 communities that made significant progress in literacy over the past few years.

The award supports local initiatives, including a Reading Rally led by Malcolm Mitchell, and highlights a strategic focus on education as part of the community's planning efforts. Key partnerships include Dalton Public Schools, Whitfield County Schools, and local organizations aimed at enhancing reading proficiency and ensuring a sustainable future for children.

Allyson Coker, Executive Director of Believe Greater Dalton, emphasized that the award reflects the community's commitment to improving literacy as a foundation for lifelong success.

Click Here to view the Press Release.

Did you know there are four levels of trauma-informed care? Trauma-Informed Care has become a key term for many agencies serving children and families. In our community, agencies may vary on a spectrum of trauma-informed care, from basic awareness to being genuinely trauma informed. The Four Rs of Trauma-Informed Care are: Realize, Recognize, Respond, and Resist.

Many agencies and providers are considered Trauma Aware. Being trauma aware means you have attended training and understand the effects of trauma on the brain and behavior. These organizations acknowledge the prevalence of trauma and its potential impact on both staff and the families they serve, representing the first R: Realize.

The next step on the journey to trauma-informed care is becoming Trauma Sensitive, or Recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma in both children and adults. This level encompasses knowledge, practical application, and skill development among staff within an organization, indicating a deeper understanding than mere awareness.

The following phase is becoming Trauma Responsive. Trauma-responsive organizations implement cultural changes that highlight the role of trauma. At this stage, staff begin to rethink practices that may not be supportive of individuals who have experienced trauma and make necessary adjustments.

Finally, an agency is deemed truly trauma informed when it has established policies and procedures that Resist the retraumatization of clients. In a trauma-informed organization, the trauma model is embraced and practiced by all staff members, not just a select few. The agency prioritizes policies that reduce the risk of causing further trauma to clients, addresses the challenges of secondary trauma on staff, and advocates for trauma-informed approaches within the community.

Our Building a Region of Resilience Coalition has been focused on raising Trauma Awareness and educating the community about the effects and prevalence of trauma on children and families in our region. Now, we are ready to enhance our knowledge and practices as we progress toward becoming truly trauma informed. Any other agencies interested in deepening their understanding?

For more information about the different levels of trauma-informed practices, you can view

The Missouri Model: A Developmental Framework for Trauma-Informed Approaches.

Practice Gratitude! Sure, your day might have felt like a series of unfortunate events from the moment you rolled out of bed. But hold up! Instead of dwelling on the drama, why not hit the brakes and count your blessings? Focusing on what went right can zap your frustration and anxiety right out of the park! The Greater Good Science Center has a nifty trick: the “3 Good Things” practice. It’s like a brain workout for positivity! Share three things that went well during your day with a buddy, your partner, or around the dinner table. Feeling fancy? Start a gratitude journal and let the good vibes flow! For the scoop on the Three Good Things Strategy, click here! Try it for a week, and see how you feel!

Community Pre-Kindergarten Registration

Dalton Public Schools, Head Start, & Whitfield County Schools

Tuesday, March 18th 7:30am-6:00pm

Wednesday, March 19th 7:30am-4:30pm

Mack Gaston Community Center

High School Opportunities

Thursday, March 20th

1:00pm-2:30pm

Mack Gaston Community Center

Providence Ministries Women's Shelter, Patsy's Place, celebrated its Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Monday, March 3rd. This shelter is designed to accommodate homeless women and single mothers with children, offering space for 30 individuals. The facility provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, featuring beds, bathrooms, kitchens, communal areas, and a laundry room. It aims to create a safe and supportive environment where dedicated staff will assist women and mothers in accessing community resources, including childcare and employment opportunities. While residing at the home, families will have their basic needs met, allowing them to save money for a transition to their own homes.

Individuals or businesses interested in supporting this ministry can contribute donations of essential household items that families may require, such as laundry supplies, hygiene products, socks, or underwear. Providence also welcomes community organizations that offer classes to support parents, including educational programs in financial literacy, employment, or life skills. For further information, please reach out to the Program Director, Amanda Wright, to explore potential collaboration. Contact Amanda at amandawright22286@gmail.com