My note this month is intentionally brief. When describing what trauma responsive, equity-focused values looks like in practice, one specific action includes stepping back to make space for someone else to step in. With that in mind, I am handing over the virtual mic to our first two Storytellers in Residence, Angela Colón-Rentas who shares her journey through written word and art and Vincent French who provides important education and a call to action on the Clean Slate Act. In a world where time can feel precious, it is my hope that you invest your time to learn more about the work that important to each of them.
As it is the season of gratitude, I want to express my deep appreciation to each of you for continuing to show up on both the days that are challenging as well as the days where there is more ease. It is through community and connection that we continue to move forward, and I am grateful that you are walking along side of me on this journey.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth
NYS TINRC storytellers are members of our community who have offered to share their personal narratives, perspectives, and insights on trauma, resilience, and healing.
Check out the storyteller pieces this month!
“Temporary” by SINBoundaries ARTWORK.
Thinking back, last month was a real roller coaster ride that could have left me filled with self-doubt. I almost even gave up on my art, the essence of my spirit! Yet, because of my profession as a Youth Peer Specialist; over the years I have learned to embrace all my emotions and thrive thereafter. With every individual I met with and through every coping or social skill I practiced and role modeled, in many ways I learned too.
“Temporary” by SINBoundaries ARTWORK.
In November 2023, New York State enacted the Clean Slate Act Clean Slate Act (S.7551A/A.1029C), a transformative law set to take effect on November 16, 2024. This legislation aims to automatically seal certain conviction records after a designated period, provided individuals have maintained a clean record and are no longer under supervision. You can read more about the announcement here: governor.ny.gov.
Pathways: Becoming Trauma-Responsive
Deb Faust shares her story of connection in unassuming places. Listen to this month’s episode to hear Elizabeth and Deb share experiences and insights on traumaresponsive approaches, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing trauma in families, communities, and society.
Alongside this launch is TRUST 2.0, an updated strength-based tool to enhance an equity-focused lens
and meet the needs of both direct providers and organizations.
If you were previously registered on the old version of the site, please re-register, please re-register, where existing accounts were not migrated to the new site. For any questions, reach out to For any questions, reach out to TRUST@ccsi.org
FYI: Please be advised that the legacy TRUST site legacy TRUST site will be shutting down at the end of 2024. If you had registered on the TRUST prior, please ensure you download your important documents before the closure. Here is the link: Legacy TRUST Website
Breath-Body-Mind™ is a set of gentle exercises that are based on science and designed to help with stress. They can improve your mental health and wellness. And the best part? All sessions, workshops, and trainings are free for New Yorkers!
Explore breathing, relaxation, and gentle movement techniques during our BreathBody-Mind™ practice sessions.
You can join these virtual sessions from work, at home, or any comfortable location. They help reduce stress, give your body a chance to reset, and better prepare you for whatever your day may bring.
English classes are offered every Tuesday at 6 a.m., 12 p.m., and 8 p.m.
Spanish classes* are offered every Wednesday at 8 PM.
TINRC on Tour fourth stop of the tour was at Blue Mountain Lake in Central, NY!
Participants shared thoughts on increasing peer and community support, addressing community trauma, and integrating new strategies for mental health and service provision.
TINRC on Tour aims to create engaging, innovative, and experiential events that bring communities together to network, share insights, and offer recommendations to amplify and strengthen the development and support of trauma-informed, equityfocused practices in New York State.
If you’re interested in hosting a “TINRC on Tour” “TINRC on Tour” event in 2025, please contact Josh Higgins at jhiggins@ccsi.org.
November is Transgender Awareness Month. This month, we reflect on the unique struggles that are faced by the trans community – and we honor the courage it takes to exist authentically in a society that isn’t always accepting. While there has been forward movement, there is still much work to be done to ensure that every space is safe, supportive, and inclusive for all.
