The Story Behind Our Intergenerational Trauma Community of Practice The Story Behind Our Intergenerational Trauma Community of Practice

Our journey began with a shared vision: to create a space where leaders and organizations from diverse sectors could explore the profound impact of intergenerational trauma (IGT) on communities and systems. The Leadership in Intergenerational Healing and Transformation Community of Practice (LIGHT CoP) was born from a deep commitment to understanding how trauma influences social change work and the need for collective healing. Central to our approach is the recognition that the relationship we have with ourselves shapes how we relate to others—by deepening self-awareness and healing within, we can foster more compassionate, resilient connections with the people and systems we engage. Through a collaborative process, we engaged with social change leaders, mental health practitioners, and organizations already weaving trauma -informed approaches into their work. Together, we shaped this community, not just as a platform for learning, but as a catalyst for healing and transformation on both individual and collective levels.

What Our IGT CoP Is: Vision and Key Features What Our IGT CoP Is: Vision and Key Features

Our vision is to create a global community of practice that integrates healing and trauma-awareness into social change efforts. Our IGT CoP brings together 20-25 organizations, each represented by two key members:

  • A member of the senior leadership team or the CEO, ensuring that trauma-informed practices are prioritized at the highest organizational levels.
  • An additional team member, reflecting a diverse perspective and the capacity to operationalize this work.

To join, each organization must also secure board-level approval, signifying a commitment to embedding trauma-informed principles into their internal and external practices.

With organizations from sectors such as education, healthcare, and government, among others, we aim to build a truly global and multidisciplinary community.

Currently, there are very few spaces where social change leaders can come together collectively to address these critical issues. Our CoP seeks to fill that gap by co-creating a valuable, reflective space that evolves through the contributions and experiences of its members. This is not only a platform for sharing knowledge but also for exploring what lies within our capacity to transform and for highlighting areas where we may need collective support.

In this safe space for exploration and learning, we invite members to embark on a journey of self-discovery—recognizing that to go forward, we must first go inward. Through this process, we transform ourselves, shaping our own being through the very processes in which we engage. This commitment to personal transformation opens the door for others, especially within hierarchical systems, creating opportunities for collective growth and healing.

Key Features of the IGT CoPKey Features of the IGT CoP

  • Practical Application: Our focus is on practical approaches that leaders and organizations can integrate into their work, prioritizing reciprocity and sustainability in their impact.
  • Healing Orientation: A core focus on healing, with an emphasis on personal and collective well-being as a foundation for systems change.
  • Global and Multi-Sectoral: Participants come from varied fields, offering a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences.
  • Flexible Framework: The community is built around a co-created framework that evolves with the needs and insights of its members.
  • Long-Term Commitment: Joining the CoP represents a significant long-term commitment of 3 years, with the potential for extension to 5 years. This allows for deep learning, sustained growth, and meaningful impact on both personal and organizational levels.
  • Hybrid Model: The CoP will adopt a hybrid model, combining virtual and in-person events that ensure intimate and immersive experiences for members. Virtual meetings will enable consistent learning and connection, while in-person gatherings will offer opportunities for deeper exploration and collaboration.
  • Language of Communication: The CoP will be hosted in English, ensuring accessibility for a diverse, global audience.

The Purpose of the IGT CoPThe Purpose of the IGT CoP

Our primary purpose is to deepen understanding and application of intergenerational trauma in the context of social change. We aim to:

  • Promote healing as an integral part of systems transformation.
  • Explore how trauma-informed practices can create long-lasting change in communities.
  • Foster resilience and innovation through collective learning and shared experiences.
  • Empower leaders to integrate trauma awareness into their strategic priorities and operational structures.
  • Catalyze the development of new models and practices that support individual and community healing across generations.

How the IGT CoP Operates: Facilitation and ConnectivityHow the IGT CoP Operates: Facilitation and Connectivity

The time requirement for this Community of Practice would be:

  • A CoP meeting once every 6 weeks for 2 hours
  • 30-60 minutes of preparation for each session
  • 2 additional 60-90 minutes practice sessions in triads in between calls with other CoP members
  • 1 in-person meeting every year
  • A 3-year journey (with potential to extend to 5 years) to build lasting relationships and impactful strategies.

CoP TimelineCoP Timeline

You can find below a tentative calendar for 2025 activities:

  • Application Process Phase 1: Open February 20th, Close April 18th.
  • Q&A Session: May 7th
  • Application Process Phase 2: May 12th – June 27th.
  • Summer Break: July – August.
  • Kickoff Session: September 17th.
  • Online Meeting: October 29th.
  • Online Meeting: December 3rd.
  • In-Person Gathering: February 2026

Express Your Interest In Attending LIGHT CoPExpress Your Interest In Attending LIGHT CoP

Express your interest in the LIGHT CoP by completing the form below.
We look forward to having you join us on this journey to foster healing and transformation within our systems and communities.

In collaboration with

IGTIGT CoPLIGHT
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