Most of the young people in Wards 7 and 8 who have been exposed to gun violence experience profound psychological damage from trauma they continue to endure. The TraRon Center allows those ages 4-14 to grieve, cope, and heal through the arts. Every day after school and across seven weeks in the summer, art therapists lead children through developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive activities. Children express their emotions through affirmation sessions, drawing, group therapy, and individual counseling. Additional mentorship and tutoring assist children in catching up academically, while books, museum visits, and guest speakers introduce them to African American artists. By beginning gun violence prevention work earlier than most, the TraRon Center reduces PTSD among youth, equips them with conflict resolution skills, and opens a safe space for dialogue.
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