I am writing to inform you about my involvement in a committee that has become a catalyst for change in my life. It is called the ACE or Adverse Childhood Experiences Committee.

I first became aware of the ACE committee when I joined public health, just over a year ago. What I have found out about ACE in the year that I have been a member of this committee is amazing. This committee is dedicated to raising awareness of ACE, providing resources for people who have experienced ACE and education to prevent and stop the cycle.

I have learned that even as ACE’s are occurring, there can be other factors present in the child’s life that “buffer” the adverse event(s). This is called resiliency and can have lifelong benefits.

If you are important in the life of a child, and have that child’s best interest at heart, you are in a position to provide this resiliency factor through unconditional acceptance and support.

The ACE Committee of Freeborn County will host a free community event called “Promising Futures Promoting Resiliency” from 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 28 in the Albert Lea High School auditorium. For more information, or to register, visit www.albertleacommunityed.org, or call 507-379-4834. I hope to see you there.

 

Carol Ganrude

Freeborn County Public Health