Research has shown that adverse childhood experiences can have long-term effects on both physical and mental health. Recovery from trauma requires more than treatment alone—it calls for trauma-informed care, an approach that begins with understanding trauma, recognizing its impact, responding appropriately, and creating supportive environments that prevent re-traumatization.

With this vision, CWLF established the Child Trauma and Resilience Center. The center brings together cross-disciplinary professionals and trauma-informed expertise to provide integrated recovery services, helping children and families move toward healing and resilience.

Trauma-Informed Care was introduced by American clinical psychologists Maxine Harris and Roger Fallot. This approach emphasizes that healing from trauma is not solely the responsibility of the individual, but a collective effort. All systems and services should adopt a positive and integrated approach to understanding the role and impact of trauma in people's lives. Instead of asking “what's wrong with you?”, this perspective encourages us to ask “what happened to you?” to better understand the experiences of trauma survivors.

Recognizing the importance of trauma-informed care, various professional service systems—including workplaces, schools, social services, the justice system, and healthcare—have actively integrated this approach into their service delivery. The Child Welfare League Foundation established the Trauma-Informed Care Resource Center to provide resources, deliver training, and promote awareness of trauma-informed care. Our goal is to extend this approach into families, schools, and communities, fostering greater understanding and support for those affected by trauma.