6,500+/yr

Die by SUICIDE

392,000+

in foster Care

1.2+ Million

Navigating Trauma

Every child's journey through trauma is as unique as the winding paths of the Oregon Trail. Most caregivers feel overwhelmed and unprepared to handle the complex ways trauma manifests in children.

We can help you understand these challenges, and become the confident and compassionate guide your child needs.

Be the Hope

You are Not Alone

We understand the weight of your responsibility and the depth of your desire to help. It's a tough but noble path and worthwhile path you are on.

We can help you

With a foundation built on extensive research and real-world experience, Navigating Trauma is equipped to guide these advocates through the labyrinth of childhood trauma.

"happy Ever After" begins here

Join our Wagon Train and help your children move forward, one step at a time.

Step 1

Sign-up for the training

The Wagon Community consists of individuals, just like you, in need of a support system and a way to comprehend trauma and support children dealing with it.

Step 2

Become a wagon master

Enroll in the online training program to become a Wagon Master, someone who is skilled in creating a supportive environment for children to progress.

Step 3

HELP KIDS MOVE FORWARD

A Wagon Master is the leader of a wagon trail. A child grappling with trauma is encircled by other wagons, yet what they truly require is a Wagon Master to help them move forward.

How the Wagon method helps

The W.A.G.O.N. Method is a practical approach to understanding and navigating trauma in children who have experienced traumatic events. Acknowledging the complexity of childhood trauma, it offers a clear model to help caregivers and professionals understand the intricacies of trauma responses. These tools equip them to provide targeted and effective support, tailored to each child's unique circumstances. The method's relatable metaphor simplifies the journey of healing from trauma, making it easier for caregivers and professionals to identify the key factors that impact a child's needs, behaviors, and progress.

UNDERSTAND TRAUMA'S IMPACT

• Demystifies the complex process of trauma recovery
• Provides a visual model for understanding key stages
• Identifies factors influencing a child's progress
  

BUILD A FOUNDATION FOR RECOVERY

• Highlights essentials of safety, stability, love, and identity
• Pinpoints areas where you can provide the most impact.
• How to build trust and connection.
  

NAVIGATE CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

• Helps anticipate potential setbacks and triggers
• Encourages development of proactive support plans
• Promotes a solutions-oriented approach
  

W

Well-Being

A

Advocacy

G

Grounded Experiences

O

Outside Obstacles

N

Nurturing Network

Wheels of Well-being

The main support system for the child's well-being and guiding their emotional and relational journey.

Advocacy

Advocacy serves as the force propelling the child's journey forward, with caregivers, mentors, and caseworkers acting as the oxen.

Grounded Experiences

Within the wagon's confines lie the artifacts of a child's journey, the experiences that shape them and the tools they wield against adversity.

Outside Obstacles

The trail conditions and challenges the child might encounter during their journey through life.

Nurturing Network

A nurturing network wraps around those in need, embodying the essence of collective healing and support.

Grace Beyond Borders

Building Homes of Healing and Hope

With over 70 years of compassionate service, Grace Children's Home has built a legacy of healing and hope in Henderson, Nebraska, offering sanctuary to countless children navigating the complexities of trauma. As we look to the future, our mission evolves beyond our foundational walls, aspiring to bring the nurturing essence of Grace into the lives of children everywhere. Under the guidance of Dr. Mark Danielson, we are committed to expanding this legacy, training foster care and adoptive parents across the nation to create Grace-based homes. These homes will be sanctuaries of love, stability, and healing, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow in an environment filled with grace. This vision propels us forward, honoring our rich history while embracing the promise of a future where every child finds a home marked by the grace and compassion that defines us all.