Organizer:

RVSHRM

Event Type:

Meeting

Program Title: February 2026 Program: Trauma Basics

Date and Time: Tuesday, February 24, 11:30am -1:00pm

Program Description: This “Trauma Basics” presentation will delve into the profound impact of trauma on individuals and communities, emphasizing the significance of understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their effects on neurobiological development. Additionally, the presentation will highlight the importance of fostering trauma-informed organizational environments to better support individuals affected by trauma. The session will culminate in a discussion on resilience, offering insights into strategies and practices that can empower individuals and organizations to navigate and overcome the challenges posed by trauma.

This session aligns closely with key elements of the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK), supporting HR professionals in promoting employee well-being, fostering inclusive cultures, and enhancing organizational effectiveness. Specifically, it ties into:

• Technical Competency: HR Expertise — Particularly in the "People" domain (Employee Engagement & Retention, Total Rewards) by addressing mental health support, well-being initiatives, and creating supportive work environments.
• Behavioral Competencies:
• Ethical Practice — Promoting empathy, non-judgmental support, and equitable treatment for trauma-impacted employees.
• Relationship Management — Building trust and psychological safety through trauma-informed leadership and team dynamics.
• Communication — Enhancing awareness and advocacy for sensitive topics like trauma and resilience.
• Global & Cultural Effectiveness — Recognizing diverse experiences of trauma and fostering inclusive, empathetic workplaces.
• Leadership & Navigation — Guiding organizations toward resilient, trauma-informed policies and practices.

Why Attend?

· Comprehensive Understanding — Provide participants with a deep and comprehensive understanding of trauma, ACEs, and neurobiology.

· Trauma-Informed Practices — Teach participants to advocate for and promote the adoption of trauma-informed organizational practices.

· Building Resilience — Explore and emphasize strategies for building resilience in individuals and organizations.

· Practical Insights — Gain actionable strategies to create supportive environments that prioritize empathy, understanding, and recovery.

· Networking Opportunities — Connect with fellow HR professionals interested in employee well-being and organizational health.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain essential knowledge and tools to foster trauma-informed, resilient workplaces in 2026. Join us for an informative and empowering session that can transform how your organization supports its people.

Speaker Bio:

Decca Knight is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Professional School Counselor (LPSC), National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and EMDR Certified Therapist with nearly 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She currently serves as the Coordinator of Trauma-Informed Care and Elementary Counseling for Roanoke City Public Schools while managing her consulting firms, Blue Ridge Parenting and Connected Child Consulting. Decca specializes in trauma-informed, person-centered care, working with children through adults on issues such as complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and dissociation. She is a passionate advocate for trauma-informed communities, having served as a Trauma-Informed Community Network (TICN) Specialist with Children's Trust and founding Standing for Equity in the Roanoke Valley (SERV). Decca has been recognized with awards including the “Golden Halo” from Children’s Trust and the Humanitarian and Caring Person Award from the Virginia Counselors Association. She holds a Master's in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech.

Topics/Objectives:

1. Understanding Trauma, ACEs, and Neurobiology → Enhance participants' knowledge with a comprehensive overview of the impact of trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences on individual development, well-being, and brain function.
2. Promoting Trauma-Informed Organizational Practices → Illustrate the benefits of creating empathetic, supportive environments and encourage advocacy for trauma-informed approaches in the workplace.
3. Strategies for Building Resilience → Teach effective practices for fostering growth, recovery, and resilience in individuals and organizations following traumatic experiences.

1.0 General Credit

Sponsor:

Gary LeFeuvre, Owner/General Manager, Winner of the 2026 CHPA Tower of Excellence Award