One Invitation, 50 Lives Impacted

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of speaking at HeartLed Transition, a local ministry dedicated to encouraging and equipping women in every season of life. Jaquetta Anderson, the group’s founder and leader, had a vision: spotlight Denver ministries that make a meaningful difference, where women can see God at work and find a place to serve with passion and purpose.

That morning, a woman named Elyssa heard about Project 1.27’s Trauma-Informed Training for church staff and volunteers, and she immediately thought of her home church. She connected me with the Children’s Director at New Hope Ministries of Greater Denver, Justina Gallargo, and by May, Project 1.27 was holding a trauma-informed training session for 12 of New Hope’s incredible staff and volunteers.

But it didn’t stop there. Following that training, one of the participants, Mariah Garcia, introduced me to Colorado Uplift, a nonprofit that mentors and teaches youth in Denver Public Schools. In July, 42 of Colorado Uplift’s staff and volunteers were trained.

What started as one simple invitation in January has led to over 50 people being trained in trauma-informed care.

Project 1.27’s Trauma-Informed Training doesn’t just share the science of brain development and neuroplasticity; participants are also equipped with a practical “Connection Toolbox,” so volunteers have actionable strategies to help children feel safe and supported.

By Kym Schnittker, Community Engagement and Events Manager