In a significant stride toward fostering a trauma-informed state, the Illinois ACEs Response Collaborative, facilitated by Health & Medicine, launched the Healing-Centered Illinois Task Force. This landmark event took place on January 30th, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Governors State University in the Hall of Governors, marking a pivotal advancement in addressing the widespread impact of trauma across communities in Illinois.

The launch event was a convergence of minds and spirits, featuring an array of distinguished speakers. Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton delivered keynote remarks highlighting the state’s commitment to healing and resilience. A representative from Governors State University initiated the proceedings, spotlighting the institution’s critical contributions and milestones in trauma-informed care. Furthermore, Colleen Cicchetti, Executive Director of Lurie’s Center for Childhood Resilience, provided attendees with an insightful overview of the history and progress of trauma-informed care initiatives. Watch the event recording here.

The establishment of the Task Force represented not just a formal gesture but a deliberate action towards implementing a statewide strategy that recognizes and addresses trauma at its roots. Following the launch, the Task Force convened for its first official meeting, setting forth on its mission to integrate trauma-informed and healing-centered principles into Illinois’ public policy and community support frameworks.

The foundation for this transformative initiative was previously laid by the informal Trauma-Informed Illinois Working Group, spearheaded by Lt. Governor Stratton’s Justice, Equity, and Opportunity (JEO) Initiative. Since its inception in 2021, the Working Group has united a diverse group of experts from the public health, education, legal, and government sectors. Their joint efforts have been instrumental in establishing the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to trauma-informed care across the state.

A significant milestone was reached with the enactment of Senate Bill 646, now known as the Task Force for a Healing-Centered Illinois Act. Signed into law on August 11, 2023, the Act exemplified Illinois’ resolve to transform how communities affected by trauma are supported and strengthened. This legislative achievement highlighted a shared vision for a future where systems are not only informed by trauma but are actively centered around healing, ensuring the well-being and resilience of all Illinoisans.

The launch of the Healing-Centered Illinois Task Force was more than just an event; it was the commencement of a journey toward healing and optimism. Community members and stakeholders from across the state were invited to partake in this historic moment, contributing to the creation of a compassionate and resilient Illinois for future generations.