EQUITY PROJECT

The Equity Project is a comprehensive community-based organization that offers a safe space and trauma- informed youth-led programming which utilizes best practices to support Black and Brown youth in healing from trauma building resilience and advocating for self and community care. Our services include: Safe Haven: We offer an emotionally and physically safe public space that provides respite from daily trauma. Trauma-informed design which acknowledges a strong link between our physiological state our emotional state and the physical environment has been utilized in our nurturing environment which features high ceilings tall windows natural greenery comfortable seating an open kitchen aromatherapy calming colors and comforting sounds. Equitable Access: Free basic services such as fresh fruit healthy snacks and meals shower laundry services detergent washer and dryer hygiene and period products a charging station for all variety of phones Wi-Fi printers MacBooks and iPads. Racial Equity: Providing opportunities for understanding of the impact of racism the exercise of agency choice and power and the development of positive cultural identities civic engagement and social and emotional skills viewed through an equity lens. Trusted Adults: Building meaningful connections with others is a deeply healing process and is at the core of all our programming. Our staff are trained on the impacts of trauma on youth can recognize signs symptoms and triggers and offer consistent support and recognition. Because representation matters we encourage relationship-building with Black and Brown community members through play group activities shared meals and creative endeavors. Trauma Informed Tools and Resources: Offering mental health and wellness education in a space replete with sensory-friendly tools and toys including therapeutic bean bags and swing manipulatives games and books and home to our facility dog Zoe and rescue kitten Billie. Creative Outlets: As art is an essential healing tool in navigating and understanding our experiences we promote creativity and innovation through media artistic and cultural exploration. Youth have open access to art music and writing materials including acrylic and watercolor paint and canvases digital video cameras musical instruments and recording equipment. Advocacy and Academic support: Staff offer strength-based collaborative relationships to address the variety of issues presented by our youth including conflict resolution emotional support transportation food clothing driver's licensing and identification provision resume employment and benefit applications family and school challenges. We also offer tutoring and academic support as well as referrals to trusted partners when needed.