Springtime in Upstate New York is the visceral reminder of change. One day the temperature is approaching 70 degrees, and you can literally smell spring on the breeze and the next day there is wet snow on the ground covering your emerging daffodils. And it is all out of our control. There is no way to rush the spring to summer or force the buds to blossom. Our only choice is to ride the waves of change. This past week offered that very lesson – the release of what is not in my control and focusing on where I could exercise my agency. Within hours, I went from a high of having the opportunity to have a conversation with a leader in trauma-informed practices to learning about the untimely death of a trauma survivor I knew well.
It was an emotional rollercoaster. I allowed myself to feel both the excitement and the grief. And knew that both emotions fuel my Why. The Why I show up on days that feel more challenging and keep persisting to promote practices that I deeply believe can create the conditions for healing for all. Spring is a time for unearthing. The ground thaws, the sun shines, rain falls – all creating the conditions to foster growth. Growth that comes with struggle – life pushing through the literal dirt.
In this month’s newsletter, you will find recognition of challenges and inspiration as well as resources to support the work. Reflection by Angela Colón-Rentas is a story of facing change through transition and the journey of self-discovery. In our latest Pathways podcast episode, Tom Andriola shares the way in which his personal and professional experiences have shaped his commitment to trauma responsive practices.
In recognition of both Child Abuse Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Prevention Month, I dedicate this note to all survivors. On the days when the wind of change blows hard, we remember to stay grounded in community, plant the seeds and tend the roots.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth
NYS TINRC is seeking workshop and talk proposals for our 3rd Annual Join the Journey Conference in Saratoga Springs, October 29-30, 2025.
We welcome diverse voices and experiences offering practical skills and actionable takeaways.
Sessions in English occur every
Tuesday at 6 a.m., 12 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Session in Spanish occurs every Wednesday at 8 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 30th
Time: 12-1pm
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Time: 12-1pm
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Date: May 20th & May 22nd
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (both days)
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Register your organization!
Share the survey with your leadership & staff
Receive an action-oriented report
Schedule a free one-hour call w/ TINRC staff for personalized support
Make meaningful, trauma-responsive changes
Date: July 13th & July 14th
Time: 12 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (both days)
Location: Virtual via Zoom
As I wrap up my time as Storyteller in Residence, I step back and reflect on the times I attended the S.W.A.T.
(Spreading Wellness Around Town) Youth Council here in Monroe County and the impact it had even till this day.
Sexual assault is a deeply traumatic experience that affects millions of people around the world each year.
When it comes to finding ways to combat stress, the internet is bursting with advice in the form of articles, listicles, hacks and how-tos.
The ‘Be Well’ public awareness campaign helps people understand the importance of mental wellness and the impacts of stress and trauma. The “Be Well” website gives New Yorkers accessible mental health tips and free ways to improve their well-being.
Tom Andriola, a member of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, shares his personal journey of healing from childhood trauma (TW: sexual abuse) and how that experience fueled his commitment to integrating trauma-informed practices across state government.
Episode 2: Hudson Valley is now live!
