Maui, Hawai‘i – [3/19/24] – The 21st Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma (IVAT) Hawaiʻi International Summit on Preventing, Assessing, & Treating Trauma Across the Lifespan will take place from April 8 – 11, 2024, at the Hawai‘i Convention Center in Honolulu. With the theme “Cultivating Healing and Nurturing Connections: Caring for the Earth and Personal Wellness,” this Summit promises to be a vital platform for advancing knowledge and practices in trauma care.

The Summit will offer a diverse array of learning opportunities tailored to the needs of Maui’s human service providers. From addressing adverse childhood experiences and grief to supporting vulnerable populations and fostering prevention and early intervention strategies, sessions will help practitioners learn skills to address the long-term impacts of the wildfire disaster and offer opportunities for self-care and wellness, healing and support.

The participation of Maui human service providers is especially crucial as the summit will offer valuable insights and resources to address the aftermath of Maui’s recent disasters and the long-term effects on individuals and communities. These people have been on the frontlines, responding to emergencies and providing day-to-day support to ensure families are healthy and thriving.

Due to the critical role played by Maui human service providers in responding to the wildfire disaster and their ongoing commitment to supporting families, the community is rallying behind efforts to ensure their attendance at this important event. Thanks to the generous support of HMSA, the Ho‘oikaika Partnership has secured funding to cover the $500 registration fee for up to 30 (now 60) providers.

However, the costs for airfare, lodging and meals are approximately $1,500 per person and not within the budget of many local human service agencies. On behalf of Maui human service providers, the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma (IVAT) obtained additional support to cover participant travel expenses. “We recognize that the need to enhance the workforce is pivotal to helping Maui recover from the recent fires and deal with ongoing issues. The Summit is an opportunity to provide additional support to providers on the island,” said Chelsea Hill, Training and Continuing Education Manager of IVAT.

The collaboration of HMSA, Kaiser Permanente of Hawai‘i, Coalition for a Drug-Free Hawai‘i, (IVAT, Hawaii Community Foundation,) and Stupski Foundation collectively raised $57,650 (now$104,000). “This really shows the power of collaboration. By working together, we’re able to achieve things that no one entity could do on their own. We’re incredibly grateful,” said Deb Marois, Hoʻoikaika Partnership coordinator.

Maui human service providers are encouraged to seize this opportunity for professional development, networking, and contributing to the advancement of trauma care practices. Providers may apply below for the IVAT funding support.