Change in Action Inc

Results: Established in 2009, we have been able to assist 1656 individuals to learn ways to develop healthy relationships, communicate their feelings without the use of violence, practice ways to manage their anger and learn to be accountable for their personal choices and actions. We conduct follow up assessments with our participants and over 95% of those able to be contacted who complete are programs continue to live healthy and violence free lives years after the program. Change in Action with the generous support of the Potomac Health Foundation has been able to pilot the Behavioral Management Program for Anger and Stress which presents eight weekly sessions focused on healthy ways to cope with stress and anger, learn anger triggers, change negative self talk to positive, improve family communication and problem solving skills. This program is provided in small group format with designated groups for adults, teens (12-18), and younger children (ages 5-11) and is great for those who have difficulty managing their anger and for those who internalize their stress and anger. Currently we are piloting a Behavioral Management for Traumatic Exposure. This program seeks the long term change in the lives of our clients to promote health and wellness and decrease the likelihood of chronic health conditions associated with exposure to trauma. The desired short term changes are the improvement in healthy functioning based on assessed indicators, access and utilization of preventative health care, and the changes in personal care. This program is a ten week series of educational group style sessions for adults, adolescents and youth that have either been traumatically exposed or a loved one has been traumatically exposed. Traumatic exposure includes those that have experienced violence, crime, homelessness, serious injury, natural disaster, neglect/abandonment, etc. Programs are offered in English and Spanish.

Target demographics: individuals and families through the process of change to live violence-free lives and enhance personal wellbeing

Direct beneficiaries per year: 503 individuals and partnered with 10 community agencies

Geographic areas served: Prince William and Stafford County and the surrounding localities in Virginia

Programs: Alternatives to Violence; Real Talk, Real Teens (Healthy Relationships); Behavioral Management for Anger and Stress (for adults, teens and youth); Behavioral Management for Traumatic Exposure (to improve personal wellbeing and health after exposure to trauma for long term change for adults, teens and youth)