Behind the blue doors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, a profound transformation is underway—one that integrates a trauma-informed approach into every facet of its operations, ensuring the holistic wellness of the youth, staff, and families it serves.
Recognizing the profound impact of trauma on young lives, the Club embarked on a mission to infuse its culture with empathy, safety, and empowerment. This journey, led by a dedicated Trauma-Informed Team, has evolved over the past two years into a collaborative effort encompassing senior leadership, managers, youth development professionals, interns, program partners, and parents.
“Becoming a trauma-informed Club is not just a goal; it’s our ethos,” emphasizes Crystal Monsanto, Director of Programming & Wellness Integration. “We understand that healing begins with understanding, and that’s what we’re committed to providing—to every young person who walks through our doors.”
The Trauma-Informed Team, spearheaded by Ms. Monsanto and Wellness Coordinator Elayna Sherwood, along with a cohort of dedicated professionals and interns, has been instrumental in driving this transformation. Through partnerships with Monmouth University, Brookdale Community College, and Ramapo College, the Club has expanded its pool of talent, enriching its capacity to serve the community.
One of the cornerstones of the Club’s approach is continuous staff development, ensuring that every member of the team is equipped with the knowledge and skills to create safe spaces for youth. From Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Trauma-Informed Network sessions to specialized training and workshops on youth mental health, the team leaves no stone unturned in its quest for excellence.
Looking ahead, the Club has set ambitious goals to further strengthen its trauma-informed framework. From refining staff orientation policies to launching Arts & Wellness programming, the Club is committed to nurturing the social-emotional skills of its members and fostering a culture of connection and growth. With the support of community partners—KYDS, Amanda’s Easel, Monmouth Arts, Garden State Equality, and others—the Club is paving the way for a more compassionate and resilient community.
Continue Reading
