Codington Connects to Host Free Community Training on Childhood Trauma and Resilience

Join the Understanding ACEs Workshop for insights on Adverse Childhood Experiences! Learn from expert trainer Tifanie Petro, MS, on building resilient children and communities. Attend sessions on March 30-31 at Codington County Extension Complex, with free childcare, meals, and CEUs. Register now!

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Codington Connects HEART Team has announced a series of free community trainings focused on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the Science of Hope. The events, scheduled for March 30 and 31, aim to equip parents, educators, and service providers with the tools to build a more resilient community.

The sessions will be led by Tifanie Petro, MS, a nationally recognized trainer with 17 years of experience in trauma response and victim advocacy. Petro’s evidence-based approach is designed to help participants understand how early trauma impacts long-term health and behavior, while providing strategies to improve outcomes for children and families.

Training Schedule

All sessions will be held at the Codington County Extension Complex. Participants are welcome to attend one or all of the following:

Date	Time	Session Title	Details
Monday, March 30	6:00 – 7:30 PM	ACEs: Building Resilient Children	Designed for families and child-focused workers. Supper and childcare provided.
Tuesday, March 31	9:00 – 11:00 AM	Understanding ACEs: Building a Resilient Community	Focuses on community-wide impact and awareness.
Tuesday, March 31	12:00 – 2:00 PM	Science of Hope: How to Overcome Trauma	Explores healing and recovery strategies. Lunch provided.

Why ACEs Matter

ACEs are common and powerful, but they are also preventable. While these experiences can shape a person’s health, they do not have to define their destiny. By increasing awareness, Codington Connects aims to strengthen local schools, workplaces, and families.

“Understanding ACEs is essential for anyone committed to building a healthier future for children and adults, as these experiences shape family wellbeing and influence the broader community,” the organization stated in a release.

Registration and Information

The training is free to the public. Professional attendees can receive certificates of attendance for CEUs.

·         How to Register: Sign up online via Eventbrite or through the Codington Connects Facebook page.

·         Contact: For questions, contact Sara Foust at Codington County Community Services at 605-882-6286 or via email at sfoust@codington.org.

This event is made possible through sponsorships from the SHIINE program and Atyeo Consulting.