ACEs Aware Family Resilience Network (UCAAN) to address Childhood Trauma and Adversity
Research shows that about two out of three people have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience, or ACE, during childhood. These stressful and potentially traumatic experiences, when they are frequent or particularly intense, and occur without the support of a caring adult, can trigger the body’s toxic stress response. ACEs and toxic stress are associated with some of society’s most common health challenges.
Health providers and their community partners play a crucial role in recognizing and addressing the health impacts of ACEs and toxic stress and can share information with patients about ACEs and treat the related health impacts. Community-based organizations also address ACEs and can connect patients with health services and other social needs.
Since 2020, ACEs Aware, led by the UCLA/UCSF ACEs Aware Family Resilience Network (UCAAN), has directed California’s response to ACEs, through ACE education, screening, and response initiatives in clinical and community settings including multiple rounds of community grantmaking. Futures Without Violence is honored to lead the fourth (and current) round of community grants and the program office that supports the field. Granting $15 million to communities throughout California, the current initiative aims to promote equity and improve long-term health for youth and their caregivers by leveraging CalAIM services to better identify and support those disproportionately impacted by ACEs, including marginalized groups disconnected from traditional health care.
Expanded CalAIM services include Enhanced Care Management (ECM) for children and youth and Community Health Worker (CHW) services as well as critical services such as family therapy, doula care, and community supports to address issues such as housing and food insecurity.
For more information about the project, contact ljames@futureswithoutviolence.org
