This session will provide participants with an introductory overview of trauma, as well as its impact. Participants will also being to explore vicarious traumatic stress – the lingering effects of exposure to others trauma. While we often consider the impact of vicarious traumatic stress on paid staff, the impact on volunteers who embrace our organizational missions is too often overlooked. Recognizing that our volunteers are part of the communities we serve, and, in addition, they experience vicarious traumatic stress as a result of their service. By integrating this understanding of trauma and vicarious traumatic stress, organizations can better empower their volunteers and support their longevity.
