This fall, BuildaBridge will begin its next Create! Opportunity project, The Healing Place. This eight-week course brings together a team of psychologists, drama coaches, and actors to provide creative and interactive training

for educators, parents, and youth living and working in the most disadvantaged communities in Philadelphia. The program teaches participants how to respond to children and youth who have been traumatized by violence, catastrophe, and terrorism.

The Healing Place will use an arts-integrated curriculum to provide concrete solutions and methods to 1) recognize and identify trauma in children and youth; 2) build resiliency through practical healing responses; and 3) use resources for referral and treatment. A primary focus will be on understanding both the general psychological needs of children as well as specific needs for at-risk youth. The program is funded by the Department of Behavioral Health/Mental Retardation Services in Philadelphia.