WASHINGTON, DC––Today, the Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP) commended the State of Hawaiʻi for prioritizing trauma-informed care statewide.
This momentous decision, highlighted by the executive order signed by Governor Josh Green, M.D., underscores the state’s commitment to understanding the life experiences of its residents and signifies a significant step toward supporting trauma survivors in fostering healthier communities.
Governor Green emphasized the significance of the executive order, stating, "Acknowledging trauma is essential for healing and recovery, both on an individual and societal level. Hawaiʻ’i’s commitment to this cause is a testament to our dedication to supporting all community members."
"The state’s proactive approach to becoming a trauma-informed state is a beacon of hope for fostering resilience and improving the well-being of its residents," said Jesse Kohler, Executive Director for CTIPP. "From the beginning, working alongside the Office of Wellness and Resilience and the state’s Trauma-Informed Care Task Force has been an honor. Their achievement also reflects other states' commitment to promoting trauma-informed policies and practices. By fostering compassionate and supportive organizations and systems, Hawaiʻi is dedicated to building a stronger workforce and creating thriving communities for current and future generations."
This executive order means all state departments must collaborate with the Office of Wellness and Resilience to create trauma-informed policies. The Office will provide ongoing training and technical help to support trauma-informed policies, practices, programs, and processes statewide.
The state is also partnering with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa to conduct comprehensive surveys on workforce health and quality of life, showing a commitment to data-driven decision making and the development of tailored services to meet the needs of its population.
"This declaration signifies more than just a policy change; it represents a cultural shift towards compassion and support," remarked Tia Hartsock, Director of Hawaiʻi’s Office of Wellness and Resilience. "By embracing trauma-informed care, Hawaiʻi is taking crucial steps to address the impacts of adverse childhood experiences and build resilience across its communities."
"CTIPP has been a valuable partner in this work," Hartsock continued. "Their national perspective and policy expertise have been critical to our strategic process and the evolution of trauma-informed care in Hawaiʻi."
The initiative comes at a crucial time in Hawaiʻi, as it grapples with ongoing challenges such as substance misuse and mental health crises and the aftermath of weather-related disasters like the Maui wildfires.
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Contact: Laura Braden, laura@ctipp.org