Promoting mental health is another holistic component to lifting up families and women entrepreneurs. To better understand the needs and previous experiences of those we serve, parents, women entrepreneurs, and youth completed the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) survey, which we also adapted to include questions about positive childhood experiences that build resilience and create protection.
With the pro-bono support of Laura Hershberger, MSW, LISW-S, she analyzed the survey’s results, wrote this report , and presented it to our staff. In addition, Anne Farina, MSW, LCSW, provided an in-depth analysis and wrote a Statistical Analysis Addendum.
By analyzing the data and looking at comparisons and the statistical significance of these results, we are aware of the level of trauma that exists in the community and the need to provide evidenced-based, trauma informed care. This understanding informs our priorities, program content, protocols, and action steps in the journey of educating and encouraging families to interrupt the cycles of poverty and cultivate a community of peace.
After more, Anne, Laura, PV staff, and Anne’s colleagues, Kristen Kremer, Brandy Maynard, Michael Mancini, continued to search for more knowledge and understanding from the data. The multidisciplinary team submitted a manuscript: ” Intergenerational Trauma Among Families in El Salvador: An Exploratory Study” and the Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma accepted it for publication.
Read: Intergenerational Trauma among Families in El Salvador
To Anne, Laura, Kristen, Brandy, and Michael, thank you very much for generous pro-bono efforts to help us understand how to use our data to improve our programs and services and ultimately, better support our families’ mental health. We are so grateful for your partnership.
