Warren Coalition Offers Free Trauma-Informed Certification Sept. 18 at Warren County Community Center

The Warren Coalition will host a free Trauma-Informed Certification Class (Course 1) on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Warren County Community Center, 538 Villa Ave. The class is limited to 20 participants and is offered in person only. Attendees must be present for the full session to receive certification. The course will include an on-your-own lunch break of about 30 minutes and will not be recorded.

Organizers say interest in trauma-informed learning remains high, prompting the Coalition to bring the introductory course back. The goal is to give community members a practical, science-based understanding of what trauma is, how it affects the brain and body, and how those effects can appear in everyday life. The training also offers tools for responding with empathy and care when a person’s trauma history is unknown.

Many people recognize moments when they snap at someone, feel defensive, or struggle with sadness and self-doubt without knowing why. The trauma-informed approach helps explain those reactions. It examines how the brain’s stress systems can become stuck on high alert following difficult experiences. It also explains how certain sounds, places, or interactions can trigger strong feelings, even years later. The class outlines simple strategies to slow those reactions, reduce harm, and build better connections at home, work, school, and in public spaces.

Course 1 focuses on three areas. First, it covers the biological science of trauma, including the stress response and how early, repeated, or severe events can shape health across a lifetime. Second, it explores the mental and physical health impacts that can follow—such as anxiety, sleeplessness, or chronic pain—and why those symptoms are common. Third, it offers practical ways to approach others with respect and patience, especially when their background is unknown. The aim is not to diagnose or treat, but to recognize signs of distress and respond in ways that are supportive rather than harmful.

The class will be taught by Christa Shifflett, executive director of the Warren Coalition. Shifflett has led local prevention and education efforts for years and will guide participants through key concepts, real-world examples, and time for questions. Because seats are limited, early registration is encouraged. To pre-register, visit bit.ly/ti18sept (the link is case-sensitive). For questions about whether the training may help in your personal or professional life, email christa@warrencoalition.org.

Trauma-informed learning has applications across many settings. Parents and caregivers can use it to better support children during tough transitions. Coaches and youth leaders can use it to build safe team cultures. Front-line workers in customer service may find it useful for de-escalating tense situations. Supervisors and coworkers can apply it to reduce misunderstanding and burnout. Faith and civic leaders can use it to make gatherings more welcoming. The basic idea is the same: when people understand the “why” behind behavior, they can respond in ways that promote safety and trust.

The Warren Coalition has served the community since 1994, when it began under the guidance of Warren Memorial Hospital as an outreach project. The organization was incorporated in 2001 and now operates out of the Warren County Community Center. Its mission is to help make Warren County a safe, healthy, and drug-free community. The Coalition partners with more than 15 member agencies and runs programs that fill gaps in health education, prevention, and support.

On Sept. 18, doors will open shortly before the 9 a.m. start. Participants should plan to stay for the entire session to receive certification. Because the lunch break is brief and on your own, attendees may want to bring a meal or make quick nearby arrangements. All materials will be provided at the training, and no prior coursework is required.

Seats are expected to go quickly due to strong interest. Registration is required and free of charge for community members. To reserve a spot, go to bit.ly/ti18sept. For more information about the class or other Warren Coalition programs, email christa@warrencoalition.org.
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