Delaware’s Compassionate Champion Awards: A Beacon of Hope in Trauma-Informed Care

State of Delaware

WILMINGTON, DE — In a heartfelt move to honor those at the forefront of trauma-informed care, Delaware’s Governor John Carney has opened nominations for the 2024 Compassionate Champion Awards. This prestigious recognition shines a spotlight on individuals, organizations, and educational institutions across Delaware who embody the principles of the Delaware Developmental Framework for Trauma-Informed Care.

The Compassionate Champion Awards are more than just accolades; they underscore the importance of a compassionate and informed approach to addressing trauma. The awards celebrate the tireless efforts of those in government, non-profit and private organizations, first responder professions, educational institutions, healthcare, and other agencies who are paving the way for a more empathetic, effective response to trauma.

In today’s world, where many citizens grapple with the aftereffects of traumatic experiences, the push for trauma-informed care is more crucial than ever. The core tenets of this approach include creating respectful, sensitive, and culturally competent environments, implementing evidence-based practices that address the effects of trauma, and developing a common language for dialogue and discussion.

The Compassionate Champion Awards aim to recognize those making strides in these areas. The categories for the awards span various sectors – from government to healthcare to education – reflecting the wide-reaching impact of trauma and the collective responsibility to address it.

In 2018, Delaware took a significant step towards becoming a trauma-informed state with the implementation of Executive Order #24 by the Family Services Cabinet Council. As part of this initiative, the state pledged to ensure all environments serving both children and adults embody practices of trauma-informed care.

The Compassionate Champion Awards are a testament to this commitment. By recognizing those who are leading the charge, the awards not only commend their efforts but also inspire others to follow suit. This ripple effect can result in more informed, compassionate care for all Delawareans who have experienced traumatic circumstances.

The nomination process is now open and will run until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024. Any individual, community partner, first responder, educational institution, state agency, or other organization providing services to Delaware’s citizens within the State of Delaware is eligible for nomination. Applicants can nominate themselves or another individual or organization via the Governor’s website.

As Delaware waits in anticipation for the final announcement of winners, one thing is clear: the Compassionate Champion Awards are not just about recognition – they’re about bringing trauma-informed care to the forefront of the public conversation. By doing so, they pave the way for a future where every Delawarean, regardless of their past experiences, receives the compassionate, informed care they deserve.

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