ACEs are adverse childhood experiences that affect children under 18, and include violence, abuse or neglect; bullying; witnessing violence in the home or community; and having a family member attempt or die by suicide, among others. ACEs affect two in three children nationwide and are linked to long-term mental health, physical health and substance abuse problems.
With students back in school and readjusting to in-person learning, all adults—from teachers to custodians to school nurses, counselors, bus drivers, coaches and principals—can play a role in addressing this important issue. Simple actions, such as sharing words of encouragement, supporting children and their emotions, and playing and having fun can have a huge impact.
That’s where you can help! Actions 4 ACEs is a statewide initiative guided by the NJ ACEs Collaborative, a public-private partnership consisting of the Burke Foundation, The Nicholson Foundation, the Turrell Fund, the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and the New Jersey Office of Resilience to raise awareness about ACEs.
To take the pledge, visit Actions4ACEs.com and click on “Take the Pledge” in the upper-right-and corner. You’ll also find resources and information for upcoming trainings.
You can join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn using #Actions4ACEs and #TraumaTools. Let’s heal New Jersey together!
Visit Actions4ACEs.com for additional resources and info on upcoming trainings. Let’s heal NJ together!