Dr. Henry Kempe with a group of kids. (Photo: Kempe)
Centering Colorado’s Youth for over 48 years The Kempe Foundation was established in 1976 as an independent non-profit organization to partner with the Kempe Center, which resides within the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. The Kempe Center is a leading institution addressing child maltreatment by improving the well- being of children and families, strengthening their communities, and enhancing the systems serving them through evidence-informed services, transformative research, learner- center education, and effective advocacy, all through an equity lens. We ensure the integration of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of our work by way of discovery, leadership, action, accountability, evaluation, and transformation. We are a catalyst, connecting people, information, and best practices to translate knowledge into action. The Kempe Foundation believes that every child should have the opportunity to develop and grow in a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment. We By MONICA BROWN
seek to achieve that belief by providing financial support to the professionals at the Kempe Center, engaging in public policy and advocacy aimed at rule makings and appropriations in support of children and families, and through collaborating with community partners to reach as many children and families as possible. Some examples of Kempe Center programs and our recent advocacy efforts include the following: TRIP in Schools The Trauma-Responsive Implementation and Practice (TRIP) program provides exceptional trauma-responsive and culturally appropriate practices to those desiring adult learning and systems improvements. One key TRIP initiative is TRIP in Schools, which began in Montezuma County at Kemper Elementary School. During our annual gala fundraiser, we heard from the principal at Kemper who shared how the dedication from the TRIP program positively impacted teachers, administration, staff, and families through trauma-informed trainings. • TRIP develops, implements, and disseminates trauma-informed and culturally responsive
29 The Acumen
Powered by FlippingBook