NEWSROOM

Parenting in the Pandemic Event Series

ACE Awareness is focused on helping families deal with the challenges the pandemic has brought on by offering parents, grandparents, and other family members who are caring for children a range of tools they can use to bring periods of peace and calm into their world and that of their children. Our new online series, Parenting … Continue reading Parenting in the Pandemic Event Series →

High Ground Launches Year-Long Series on ACEs

Parents and children are facing unprecedented challenges. Solid mental health supports — and the ability to seek mental health services without fear of stigma or judgment — can make the difference in a family’s ability to survive and thrive despite it all. That’s why we’re so excited to be partnering with High Ground News on … Continue reading High Ground Launches Year-Long Series on ACEs →

Parents Need Virtual Support Options, Too.

Below is an excerpt from an opinion piece published this week in the Daily Memphian by ACE Awareness Foundation Executive Director Renée Wilson-Simmons. You can read the entire piece on the Daily Memphian website. Shelby County Schools’ announcement that students and families will participate in 100% virtual learning when classes resume on August 31 has, in some … Continue reading Parents Need Virtual Support Options, Too. →

Welcome to Our New Board Members!

The ACE Awareness Foundation today announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors, effective July 23. Joining the board are Cardell Orrin, Dr. Marie Gill, Cindy Ettingoff, and Dr. Cassandra Howard. “All four of our newest board members embody the spirit of community and the diverse landscape of Memphis,” said Adriane … Continue reading Welcome to Our New Board Members! →

National Governors Association & Dr. Nadine Burke Harris Spotlight Memphis ACEs Work in Online Event

With the goal of moving the needle in addressing ACES, state teams from Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wyoming participated in a four-hour National Governors Association online event to learn about Tennessee’s efforts to prevent ACEs and mitigate their negative effects. State teams, comprised of representatives from their governor’s office as well as child-serving agencies … Continue reading National Governors Association & Dr. Nadine Burke Harris Spotlight Memphis ACEs Work in Online Event →

We Matter: A Student-Led Conversation about Race

The tragic murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Abery, and Breonna Taylor have sparked young people around the world to unite for change and speak out against racial injustice. It’s important that we all hear what young people have to say and that we help them process the pain and trauma that these incidents can … Continue reading We Matter: A Student-Led Conversation about Race →

Nonprofit Leaders Demand Action on Police Reform and Economic Justice

Protests continued to erupt in Memphis and across the nation this month, as people called for justice and reform following the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Ahmaud Arbery. To draw attention to the deep need for reform in our own communities, a coalition of more than 150 black nonprofit executive directors — including … Continue reading Nonprofit Leaders Demand Action on Police Reform and Economic Justice →

Memphis Nonprofits Demand Action

On June 15, 2020, ACE Awareness Foundation Executive Director Renée Wilson-Simmons, along with more than 100 black nonprofit leaders in Memphis, released an open letter demanding action from city officials following the most recent incidents of police violence. The pdf of this statement is available here. For questions or media inquiries, please email MemphisNonprofitsDemandMore@gmail.com. An Open … Continue reading Memphis Nonprofits Demand Action →

Talking to Children about Race and Racism

If you’re struggling with how to start an authentic conversation on race and racism with your child — or how to answer their questions about diversity and identity — you’re not alone. It can be difficult or even uncomfortable for families to begin having these conversations, but they’re critical to helping children develop a … Continue reading Talking to Children about Race and Racism →

Telehealth Counseling Now Available

Parents and caregivers of children can now get one-on-one access to Universal Parenting Place counselors, thanks to our partnerships with Church Health and Christ Community Health Services. Virtual counseling sessions for individuals are already an option for existing UPP clients, but beginning this month, people who are new to our programs will be able to … Continue reading Telehealth Counseling Now Available →

COVID-19 Help for Memphis Families

Millions of parents put out of work by the pandemic are out of money and facing impossible choices: Pay for food or buy formula? Pay their rent or buy medicine? Make a car payment or pay the water bill? Stimulus payments and extended unemployment benefits can help, but too often, applicants find that these cash … Continue reading COVID-19 Help for Memphis Families →

Virtual Programs from the UPPs!

We’re all doing our best to stay #saferathome, but that doesn’t have to mean missing your favorite activities at the Universal Parenting Places! Starting this month, we’ll host a variety of virtual sessions on our Facebook page — from support groups and yoga, to storytime and meditation — all aimed at helping parents with … Continue reading Virtual Programs from the UPPs! →

Talking to Children About Coronavirus

News about coronavirus is everywhere. Children and teens are absorbing information from a variety of sources—from television and social media to what they hear from their peers. Parents may be wondering how to explain the pandemic in a way that makes sense to their children, reassures them about their own safety, and won’t make their … Continue reading Talking to Children About Coronavirus →

Universal Parenting Places and Coronavirus

Dear Friends, Like so many around the world, we are closely monitoring news about the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and has caused the ACE Awareness Foundation and its partners to make some immediate changes to the way we operate and the services our Universal Parenting Places are able to provide. Per … Continue reading Universal Parenting Places and Coronavirus →

Promoting Connection after Traumatic Loss

Beginning this month, parents who want to help their young children and teens navigate the painful emotions associated with grief will have a community resource for support and counseling. In coordination with Whole Child Strategies, the Klondike Smokey City (KSC) Neighborhood Council, Church Health, and the KSC Community Development Corporation, Universal Parenting Place at Perea … Continue reading Promoting Connection after Traumatic Loss →

Education Initiative Based on Short Film ‘Me and the Light’ Piloted in East High School

On January 27, more than 500 East High School students, teachers, and administrators attended a special screening of the unreleased short film, Me and the Light. Produced by Grounded, a Memphis-based artist collaborative, the film couples world-renowned local artists with our “grit and grind” city spirit to unpack both the harsh realities and unlimited potential … Continue reading Education Initiative Based on Short Film ‘Me and the Light’ Piloted in East High School →

Social-Emotional Health Leader Collaborative

Local news has been riddled recently with heart-wrenching stories of youth violence. But little focus has been placed on the resources and tools students need to overcome the effects of trauma — and schools are too often ill equipped to handle children’s social-emotional needs. The good news is that the team behind an innovative pilot … Continue reading Social-Emotional Health Leader Collaborative →

Campaign Calls for Federal Response to Prevent Child Trauma

The Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP) recently announced the launch of the National Trauma Campaign, calling for federal action to prevent and address childhood trauma, with plans to educate and engage Congress on ways to build resilience in families. The National Trauma Campaign is designed to engage congressional offices and other federal leaders … Continue reading Campaign Calls for Federal Response to Prevent Child Trauma →

New UPP Grief Counseling Program

It isn’t easy to help children understand the complex feelings that arise when someone dies. But the conversations — and emotions — become especially tough to process when they involve the death of another child. In a column earlier this month for the Commercial Appeal, Memphis reporter Tonyaa Weathersbee explored the challenge of helping children … Continue reading New UPP Grief Counseling Program →

Yoga Festival Proceeds go to UPPs

On January 18, hundreds of Memphis yoga enthusiasts came together for an all-day festival designed to showcase the many benefits the ancient practice can have on the body and mind. Founded by the Memphis Yoga Festival, LLC, the first biannual 9-OM-1 Yoga Connect event featured more than 30 workshops, classes, and lectures from local instructors … Continue reading Yoga Festival Proceeds go to UPPs →

Notes from #ChangingTheOdds

The work of building social-emotional health in children — helping them to cultivate the ability to manage emotions, reactions, and relationships — is complex and often means going beyond visible behaviors and challenges. Hidden systems, like those driving issues of addiction, inequity, family permanence, and immigration, could influence how a child develops and the person … Continue reading Notes from #ChangingTheOdds →

Lisa Ling Talks Fatherhood and Overcoming Trauma at the 2019 Changing the Odds Annual Conference

The theme of Momentous Institute’s 2019 Changing the Odds conference was hidden influences — the ways systemic factors like inequality, addiction, and family disruption can change the dynamics within a household and the future health and emotional prospects for its children. Growing up without a father is certainly one of those influences. In a 2016 … Continue reading Lisa Ling Talks Fatherhood and Overcoming Trauma at the 2019 Changing the Odds Annual Conference →

Annual Handle with Care Conference Offers Strategies for Combating Crimes Against Children, Presents Extra Mile Awards to Protectors of Children

More than 400 professionals from a range of disciplines came together in Charleston, West Virginia, October 16-18 to gain new knowledge and practical instruction in successful intervention strategies for combating the many and varied forms of crimes against children. The annual Handle with Care conference, sponsored by the West Virginia Center for Children’s Justice, is … Continue reading Annual Handle with Care Conference Offers Strategies for Combating Crimes Against Children, Presents Extra Mile Awards to Protectors of Children →

Parent Support Group Learns How to Talk Tough Issues with Toddlers

Hugs, tears, and prayers bubbled to the surface in a group of North Memphis parents during an innovative discussion series focused on coping with community grief, violence, and trauma. Coffee & Conversation with Sesame Street in Communities was a six-week series held at the Universal Parenting Place at Perea School designed to help parents learn … Continue reading Parent Support Group Learns How to Talk Tough Issues with Toddlers →

Gov. Lee Signs Law Requiring Educators to Consider Student ACE History Along With Misbehavior Before Deciding on Discipline

On September 3, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed legislation that would direct educators statewide to consider each child’s history of trauma exposure along with classroom behavior when deciding his or her disciplinary fate. Senate Bill 170 requires school systems to come up with plans for assessing the extent of a student’s exposure to adverse childhood … Continue reading Gov. Lee Signs Law Requiring Educators to Consider Student ACE History Along With Misbehavior Before Deciding on Discipline →

Are You an Amazon Shopper? Remember the ACE Awareness Foundation with your Amazon Smile Purchase

Beginning this month, people who want to support the ACE Awareness Foundation will have a simple way to make their Amazon purchases count towards our mission. Clicking this unique link takes online shoppers to AmazonSmile, a website operated by Amazon with the same products, prices, and shopping features as Amazon.com. The difference is that shopping … Continue reading Are You an Amazon Shopper? Remember the ACE Awareness Foundation with your Amazon Smile Purchase →

Rep. Antonio Parkinson on 14th Annual Block Party, Importance of ACE Prevention

Tennessee State Representative Antonio Parkinson understands firsthand the importance of adverse childhood experiences awareness and prevention. As a self-described ACEs survivor, Parkinson is passionate about providing early intervention for children impacted by ACEs. “Children come into this world as a blank slate,” Parkinson explained. “I think experiences and environments write on that slate and have … Continue reading Rep. Antonio Parkinson on 14th Annual Block Party, Importance of ACE Prevention →

Hearing: Federal Approach to Child Trauma

“Childhood trauma is a nationwide public health issue associated with an epidemic of negative health consequences, […] and we need a comprehensive, Federal approach which recognizes the severe impact of Childhood Trauma and prioritizes prevention and treatment,” said Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Chairman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, during his emotional opening statement … Continue reading Hearing: Federal Approach to Child Trauma →

Nashville Conference Focuses on Innovation in Trauma-Informed Education and Partnership

Earlier this month, hundreds of educators, advocates, and community members convened in Nashville to attend the first annual Trauma-Informed Educators Network Conference. Hosted by Paradigm Shift Education at Lipscomb University on July 15-16, the international conference promoted trauma-informed practices and encouraged practitioners to create a lasting network of professional support. In a session titled … Continue reading Nashville Conference Focuses on Innovation in Trauma-Informed Education and Partnership →

Sesame Workshop 50th Anniversary Gala

Former First Lady Michelle Obama accepted the Joan Ganz Cooney Award, named for Sesame Street’s creator, at the nonprofit organization’s annual benefit dinner on May 29. Held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City and hosted by Hoda Kotb of NBC’s TODAY, the evening featured a musical performance by John Legend and special appearances … Continue reading Sesame Workshop 50th Anniversary Gala →

ACEAF Staff Focus on Innovation in Evaluation at Harvard Training

Earlier this month, a team of ACE Awareness Foundation staffers traveled to Boston to participate in an intensive three-day evaluation workshop conducted by staff of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. The center, whose mission is to drive science-based innovation that achieves breakthrough outcomes for children facing adversity, worked with participants, helping … Continue reading ACEAF Staff Focus on Innovation in Evaluation at Harvard Training →

Memphis Leaders Call for Mental Health Support after Police-Involved Shooting

On Father’s Day, ACE Awareness Foundation Executive Director Renée Wilson-Simmons joined pastors from several churches serving the Frayser neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee, to offer safe spaces for people in need of counseling after violent protests following an officer-involved shooting earlier in the month. Twenty-year-old Brandon Webber was killed in that community by U.S. Marshals during … Continue reading Memphis Leaders Call for Mental Health Support after Police-Involved Shooting →

Talking About Foster Care, Mental Health, and Resilience on Sesame Street

On any given day, there are as many as 440,000 children in the U.S. in foster care — and nearly half of them are under the age of six. Children enter care because they have endured some form of trauma or disruption. And without caregivers in place to help kids feel safe, seen, and protected, … Continue reading Talking About Foster Care, Mental Health, and Resilience on Sesame Street →

New Programs Available at the Universal Parenting Places

Held at the Universal Parenting Place at Baptist Women’s Hospital, Stroller Strides fitness classes encourage new moms to move, interact, and connect with their babies. While individual therapeutic counseling is considered the primary way to address ACEs for families, the Universal Parenting Places introduce more positive parenting methods and stress reduction techniques through a menu … Continue reading New Programs Available at the Universal Parenting Places →

‘Empire’ Star Taraji P. Henson Announces 2-Day Mental Health Summit: “This Is a National Crisis”

Actress Taraji P. Henson recently announced that her Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her late father, will host a two-day summit aimed at normalizing mental health conversations in the black community. The foundation’s first “Can We Talk?” conference and benefit dinner will take place on June 7-9 in Washington, D.C. Proceeds from the event … Continue reading ‘Empire’ Star Taraji P. Henson Announces 2-Day Mental Health Summit: “This Is a National Crisis” →

April 2019 Updates

Family, Community Resilience Key Themes at ACEs Symposium: Awareness to Action A mix of health, education, and criminal justice professionals gathered at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis ballroom early this month for the Loewenberg College of Nursing ACEs Symposium: Awareness to Action. Hosted in collaboration with the Institute for Interdisciplinary Memphis Partnerships to Advance … Continue reading April 2019 Updates →

March 2019 Updates

Ideas Worth Sharing: Children’s Advocacy Days 2019 More than 600 child advocates, service providers, and supporters from across Tennessee convened in the state capital this month for Children’s Advocacy Days 2019. Hosted by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, the annual event is meant to spotlight perspectives on child and family issues and provide … Continue reading March 2019 Updates →

February 2019 Updates

Proposal to Train Teachers on ACEs Gains Ground in Nashville A proposal introduced by a Tennessee legislator early this month could mean more training for the state’s teachers on the many ways that trauma can impact students. Senator Raumesh Akbari sponsored Senate Joint Resolution 0166, which calls for local education agencies to provide training on … Continue reading February 2019 Updates →

January 2019 Updates

Better Together: The Relationship Between Trauma and Youth Justice Momentous Institute Executive Director Michelle Kinder, a renowned expert in child mental health, was the featured speaker at a January 8 discussion hosted by Stand for Children, in partnership with the ACE Awareness Foundation, Tennessee Educational Equity Coalition, and National Civil Rights Museum, exploring the importance … Continue reading January 2019 Updates →

December 2018 Updates

ACE Awareness Foundation, Porter-Leath Selected as New Partners in Sesame Workshop’s National Early Childhood Initiative Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, announced this month that Memphis, Tennessee, is the next community selected for Sesame Street in Communities (SSIC). SSIC is a nationwide initiative to support parents, caregivers, and community providers in their … Continue reading December 2018 Updates →

Sesame Workshop Comes to Memphis

Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, has announced that Memphis, Tennessee is the next community selected for Sesame Street in Communities (SSIC). SSIC is a nationwide initiative to support parents, caregivers, and community providers in their efforts to give all children, especially the most vulnerable, a strong and healthy start. Sesame Street … Continue reading Sesame Workshop Comes to Memphis →

November 2018 Updates

ACE Awareness Foundation Continues its Work to Help Make Shelby County ACE Aware Any organization or institution interested in gaining an understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), their impact on healthy development throughout life, and ways to reduce their effects should contact the foundation to request an ACE Aware Education Workshop. The workshops help create … Continue reading November 2018 Updates →

September 2018 Updates

2018 Building Strong Brains Tennessee ACEs Summit Honors Champions in Addressing Chronic Trauma State and local advocates from across Tennessee convened in Nashville on September 11 for the annual Building Strong Brains Tennessee ACEs Summit, held at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Hosted by the offices of Governor Bill Haslam, First Lady Crissy Haslam, … Continue reading September 2018 Updates →

August 2018 Updates

Tennessee Legislators Attend Two-Day Learning Sessions with ACE Experts and Advocates Earlier this month, the ACE Awareness Foundation hosted a group of Tennessee legislators and other stakeholders interested in learning more about the approaches and partnerships central to efforts to address chronic trauma in Memphis. Tennessee Senators Ferrell Haile, Ed Jackson, Mark Norris, and Reginald … Continue reading August 2018 Updates →

June Updates

Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell Proclaimed June 26 “The Day of the Joyful Child” On June 26, the ACE Awareness Foundation hosted a free, family-friendly event to raise awareness of the innovative work and collaboration happening around Memphis to help families overcome the trauma associated with adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs. The event, held from 5:30 to … Continue reading June Updates →

June 26 is the “Day of the Joyful Child”

June 26, 2018 (Memphis, TN) — On Tuesday, June 26, the ACE Awareness Foundation will host a free, family-friendly celebration event to raise awareness of intergenerational impact of chronic trauma and toxic stress for Shelby County residents. Held from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Crosstown Concourse, “Reclaiming Joy Through Prevention and Healing” will honor the … Continue reading June 26 is the “Day of the Joyful Child” →

ACE Awareness Foundation Selects New Executive Director

Renowned child and adolescent development expert Renée Wilson-Simmons, DrPH, has been selected to head the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Awareness Foundation of Memphis, Tennessee. The Foundation is dedicated to educating communities about the ways in which chronic childhood trauma can produce an array of mental, physical, and behavioral health challenges that lead to poor outcomes … Continue reading ACE Awareness Foundation Selects New Executive Director →

May Updates

Foundation Welcomes New Executive Director After a national search, the ACE Awareness Foundation is pleased to announce its new executive director: Renée Wilson-Simmons, DrPH. She is an expert in child and adolescent development with more than 30 years of research, social service, and non-profit experience. She joins the Foundation from Columbia University’s Mailman School of … Continue reading May Updates →

February Updates

Our Mission and Values February marks Black History Month, and April marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. As a Memphis-based organization, we are committed to collaborating with local officials to bring positive change to our community.

Happy New Year from the Foundation

From our newsletter: As we begin a New Year, we are happy to share with you our latest news and updates from our newsletter!

Happy Holidays from the Foundation

From our newsletter As the holidays near, we wanted to take this opportunity to thank our tireless supporters and friends who are working with us to make Memphis, the state of Tennessee, and beyond more trauma informed.

Staff Spotlight: Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

Each month, we plan to interview a Foundation team or board member about his/her role and involvement in ACEs. We hope you enjoy this peak behind the curtain into what inspires us to keep going! As the ACE Awareness Foundation clinical coordinator, Ebony consults with clinicians across our Universal Parenting Places (UPPs).

ACE Awareness Summit 2017 Links Individual and Organizational Trauma

On October 24, the ACE Awareness Foundation brought together nearly 150 therapists, practitioners, advocates, and community members for its annual summit held at the Salvation Army Kroc Center.

Staff Spotlight: Krystal Ross

Each month, we plan to interview a Foundation team or board member about his/her role and involvement in ACEs. We hope you enjoy this peak behind the curtain into what inspires us to keep going! As the ACE Awareness Foundation operations manager, Krystal Ross makes sure schedules and budgets are in check.

ACE Awareness Foundation Announces Departure of Executive Director Ellen Rolfes

ACE Awareness Foundation’s Executive Director, Ellen Rolfes, will be leaving the organization effective October 1, 2017 to pursue other professional endeavors. Ms. Rolfes guided the Foundation through its initial developmental phase into its current position as an emerging prototype for community collaboration on eliminating the causes and associated outcomes of familial toxic stress.

ACE Awareness Foundation Joins National CTIPP

ACE Awareness Foundation executive director Ellen Rolfes and former Mayor A C Wharton Jr. have joined the Washington, D.C.-based Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP).

First Universal Parenting Place Opens in Mississippi Delta

Last month, the ACE Awareness Foundation opened its first Universal Parenting Place (UPP) outside of Memphis at the Leland Medical Center located at 201 Baker Blvd in Leland, Mississippi—a major milestone on the path toward bringing this national model of preventative care to any family in need. This is the fifth overall UPP launched by … Continue reading First Universal Parenting Place Opens in Mississippi Delta →

Now Open! UPP at Christ Community Health Services

Shelby County residents now have increased access to the services of the Universal Parenting Places (UPPs) with the opening of the fourth UPPs facility on May 19th at Christ Community Health Services – Raleigh, located at 3481 Austin Peay Highway, Memphis, TN 38128. The location, as with all UPPs, is founded and overseen by the … Continue reading Now Open! UPP at Christ Community Health Services →

Commercial Appeal endorses ACE Awareness Foundation efforts

In our own backyard in Memphis and throughout the state, communities continue to stand up in support of adverse childhood experiences (ACE)-awareness to mitigate and prevent the effects of childhood trauma. You may have read about the efforts of our Foundation in recent media coverage in the Commercial Appeal and BetterTennessee. Since 2015, the ACE Awareness Foundation has administered … Continue reading Commercial Appeal endorses ACE Awareness Foundation efforts →

ACE Awareness Task Force Experiences Playback Memphis

The ACE Awareness Task Force is one our organization’s greatest resources. It is comprised of community leaders with diverse range of capabilities, temperaments and talents, all focused on working together to help us to make our City as ACE aware as it can be. To that end, we want the Task Force to be fully … Continue reading ACE Awareness Task Force Experiences Playback Memphis →

A Perfectly Imperfect Parent by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

I recently had the good fortune of talking to a mother of a 16-month-old. I told her about my next blog idea, Being A Perfectly Imperfect Parent. She smiled, nodded and shared how differently she reacts to things involving her little one now as oppose to in the beginning. It’s like those Luvs Second Kid … Continue reading A Perfectly Imperfect Parent by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP →

Third Universal Parenting Place opens at Perea Preschool

Shelby County residents now have increased access to the groundbreaking services of the Universal Parenting Places (UPPs) with the opening of the third UPPs facility at Perea Preschool, a Ministry of Church Health, located at 1250 Vollintine Avenue, 2nd Floor (rooms 201 and 202). “Our goal is to support families in their efforts to prevent … Continue reading Third Universal Parenting Place opens at Perea Preschool →

Listen Up! ACE Awareness Foundation featured on local podcasts

There’s a reason why the word awareness is front and center in our foundation’s name. The first part of preventing ACEs is to ensure we have a community that is fully aware of what ACEs are and how they have a lasting impact on children as they grow up. To that end, we are thrilled … Continue reading Listen Up! ACE Awareness Foundation featured on local podcasts →

Helping Our Children Cope with Anxiety by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

Recently, I took advantage of an opportunity to speak with a group of parents who shared a common concern: how to help their child when he becomes anxious. I started the conversation with a question to the group: How do you know when you are feeling anxious? Body sensations like heart palpations, increased blood pressure … Continue reading Helping Our Children Cope with Anxiety by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP →

ACE Awareness Foundation names new board chair

Stephen C. Bush has been named chairman of the ACE Awareness Foundation board. The Memphis-based Foundation’s mission is to educate, inform and lead on the ACE issue to position the Greater Memphis-area to be a catalyst in enacting lasting and enduring change in policy and practice to permanently reduce toxic stress in family systems. “Stephen … Continue reading ACE Awareness Foundation names new board chair →

Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

Back in September I was fortunate to have an opportunity to attend a Grandparents’ Day celebratory event at the Universal Parenting Place at Knowledge Quest. One woman stood up and shared with the group how she is raising five of her 12 grandchildren. Her comment sparked this thought in my mind about multigenerational households, and … Continue reading Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP →

2016 ACE Awareness Summit features Dr. Bruce Perry

On November 10, one of the nation’s foremost clinicians and researchers in children’s mental health and neurosciences, Dr. Bruce Perry (center) spoke to a crowd of 300 community and civic leaders at the 2016 ACE Awareness Summit at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library in Memphis. Dr. Perry emphasized the power of relationship and highlighted how communities can … Continue reading 2016 ACE Awareness Summit features Dr. Bruce Perry →

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland tours, touts UPPs

On Monday, October 3, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland visited with Universal Parenting Place (UPP) client families and staff therapists on his tour the Knowledge Quest UPP. “The better parents that we are the better children that we have. I talk a lot about kids choosing the right path, not the wrong path, and this program here … Continue reading Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland tours, touts UPPs →

[LISTEN] Radio PSAs now airing on WYPL!

It has been a big year for the ACE Awareness Foundation. As our scope and services grow, we are continually reminded of what a supportive community Memphis is. One special reminder of how collaborative our city is came from The Memphis Public Library and Information Center, which produced two public service announcements (PSAs) to help us promote … Continue reading [LISTEN] Radio PSAs now airing on WYPL! →

Does One Size Really Fit All? by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

When it comes to discipline, does one approach work all of the time with your child? What works? First, you’ll need to have a clear set of goals. What is it that you want to accomplish when your child is doing something that you don’t want them to do? You’ll also want think about what … Continue reading Does One Size Really Fit All? by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP →

The UPPs unveil new expansion plans, logo, social handles

This is an important moment for the Universal Parenting Places, or, as we’ve all come to affectionately know them, The UPPs. Since their launch in April 2015 we’ve watched our UPPs at Baptist and Knowledge Quest blossom and grow. These two UPPs were the first of their kind in the United States. It is a … Continue reading The UPPs unveil new expansion plans, logo, social handles →

Postpartum Blues, by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP

“Some people think that when women have babies that they are endowed with superpowers, but really that’s when they become their most vulnerable.” — Valencia Robinson Avery These words were said to me during a conversation I had with a mother of two toddlers. Her thoughts about postpartum depression were quite clear: women need more … Continue reading Postpartum Blues, by Ebony Bailey, LPC MHSP →

How our environment affects our genes, by Ebony K. Bailey, LPC MHSP

Have you ever silently wished that your little one came with an instruction manual? Or maybe you just have a desire to be the best parent for your child. Last month, I talked about how trauma can start as early as in the womb. This month I want to share with you the new science of … Continue reading How our environment affects our genes, by Ebony K. Bailey, LPC MHSP →

Warm Line Now Accepting Calls

Funded by the ACE Awareness Foundation and administered by Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital; free-to-call Warm Line provides practical information, guidance, and emotional support on parenting. Shelby County parents now may access the Parent Support Warm Line, a real time, go-to reference phone line providing professional help and support with difficult or unclear parenting situations. The … Continue reading Warm Line Now Accepting Calls →

Trauma in the womb, by Ebony K. Bailey, LPC MHSP

Do our experiences in the womb really effect us as adults? That was the question I asked myself while reading a chapter from Robin Karr-Morse’s book, Scared Sick. Karr-Morse’s works laid the foundation for the Universal Parenting Places here in Memphis. I talked to my mom about it, and she shared a piece of advice … Continue reading Trauma in the womb, by Ebony K. Bailey, LPC MHSP →

UPPs featured in millions of households across the U.S. on national program, PBS NewsHour

Universal Parenting Places (UPP) in Memphis, judgment-free zones where parents can receive professional counseling, information and emotional support for family-related issues or concerns, will be the focus of an in-depth national television news feature that will air across the U.S. during tonight’s PBS NewsHour broadcast.

Speakers Series: 150+ gather to hear Loraine Swanson Lucinski

On April 14, more than 150 early childhood development, health, and education advocates attended the ACE Awareness Foundation Speakers Series to hear an in-depth keynote featuring TN Dept. of Children’s Services Deputy Director of Child Health, Loraine Swanson Lucinski, MPH. The event, “Adverse Childhood Experiences: their impact on Tennessee and our response,” was held at the Salvation … Continue reading Speakers Series: 150+ gather to hear Loraine Swanson Lucinski →

UPP at Baptist Awarded For Community Impact

The Universal Parenting Place at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women was among four programs from across the nation named a Program of Promise through the Hospital Charitable Services Awards, a national program sponsored by Jackson Healthcare. The Universal Parenting Places, are judgment-free zones where parents can receive professional counseling, information, and emotional support for family-related issues or concerns, no matter how small.

ACE Awareness Foundation Advocates Armed at FrameLab

On March 17th and 18th, more than 35 dedicated public sector leaders came to the Governor’s mansion in Nashville, Tenn. to learn the brain science and communication science of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The event was the first FrameLab hosted by the ACE Awareness Foundation in Tennessee in collaboration with FrameWorks Institute, an award-winning nonprofit organization known for … Continue reading ACE Awareness Foundation Advocates Armed at FrameLab →

Lifting Families UPP!

The nation’s first Universal Parenting Places (UPP) offer a sustainable, proactive resource to Shelby County residents that is responsive to parent needs, welcoming to all families, and rooted in evidence-based practice. Learn more about these unique parent support resources, which are located at Knowledge Quest and Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women, and are open to all Shelby County parents at no cost. View … Continue reading Lifting Families UPP! →

Mayor’s Wharton, Luttrell Dedicate Universal Parenting Places

Baptist Memorial Healthcare, Knowledge Quest, Front Page

On April 16, Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell, Jr., Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, international speaker and author Robin Karr-Morse and a host of community leaders, advocates, and families dedicated two Universal Parenting Places (UPPs), judgment-free zones where parents can receive professional counseling, information, and emotional support for family-related issues. The sites, at Baptist Memorial Hospital …..

Nation’s First Universal Parenting Places Open in Memphis

Baptist Memorial Healthcare, Knowledge Quest, Front Page

(April 16, 2015} Two Universal Parenting Places (UPPs), judgment-free zones where parents can receive professional counseling, information, and emotional support for family-related issues, were dedicated today at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women and Knowledge Quest. Attendees included Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell, Jr., Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, international speaker and author Robin Karr-Morse and a host of community leaders, advocates and families.

Task Force Founder Honored by TN Commission on Children and Youth

The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth today honored ACE Center Task Force founder Barbara H. Nixon with the Jim Pryor Child Advocacy Award. The annual award honors a Tennessean who has made a difference in the lives of children.

Standing-room-only crowd attends “Getting to our Roots”

On January 22, in front of a standing-room-only crowd of more than 330 Memphis leaders, advocates and elected officials–including Dept. of Children’s Services Commissioner Jim Henry and Mayors Luttrell and Wharton–the ACE Center Task Force released new data linking chronic exposure to adverse events during childhood to negative adult outcomes in our community. Additionally, we unveiled … Continue reading Standing-room-only crowd attends “Getting to our Roots” →

ACE Center Task Force To Release New Data, Unveil Pilot Parenting Centers

On Thursday, January 22, two internationally renowned speakers and a task force representing dozens of the Shelby County’s most respected leaders will release notable new data linking chronic exposure to adverse events during childhood to negative adult outcomes. The event will also feature the unveiling a first-of-its-kind parenting resource intended to prevent those traumatic childhood experiences for … Continue reading ACE Center Task Force To Release New Data, Unveil Pilot Parenting Centers →

Robin Karr-Morse Stresses Prevention, Challenges Perceptions

On August 26, Robin Karr-Morse addressed the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Center Task Force with a call to challenge the perception that only those from the poorest families experience childhood trauma. Karr-Morse, a renowned author, therapist and speaker, currently serves as a consultant to the Task Force Executive Committee. “The (traumatic) histories that we don’t … Continue reading Robin Karr-Morse Stresses Prevention, Challenges Perceptions →

MEDIA: Cynthia Allen encourages WATN-TV viewers to “Answer the Call”

Community involvement manager at Baptist Memorial Health Care and ACE Center Shelby County Task Force co-chair Cynthia Allen appeared on WATN-TV this week to encourage viewers to participate in this summer’s “Answer The Call” campaign. View and listen to Cynthia’s important message:

Shelby County Residents Urged to “Answer the Call”

This summer, the ACE Center Task Force of Shelby County is asking randomly selected Shelby County residents to “Answer the Call” by participating in a confidential phone survey, which will gather information to help develop tools to assist parents in protecting their children’s emotional and behavioral health. The ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience) Center Task Force … Continue reading Shelby County Residents Urged to “Answer the Call” →

VIDEO: Shelby County Mayor Luttrell Endorses ACE Center Effort

Shelby County Mayor and ex-officio Task Force member Mark Luttrell, Jr. recently expressed his appreciation for the ACE Center Task Force’s effort to provide parents and caregivers with preemptive access to professional support to prevent or reduce challenges to their young children’s emotional and behavioral health.

Press Release: Memphis Announced as Site of New Parenting Place Concept

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Local leaders have announced the Greater Memphis community as the future site of two pilot “parenting places” that will focus on providing parents and caregivers with preemptive access to professional support to prevent or reduce challenges to their young children’s emotional and behavioral health. Tennessee First Lady Crissy Haslam, Memphis Mayor AC … Continue reading Press Release: Memphis Announced as Site of New Parenting Place Concept →

ACE Center Task Force kicks off inaugural meeting

April 30th marked the inaugural meeting of the 40-member ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Center Task Force of Shelby County. The meeting was held in the Baptist Memorial Health Care boardroom and was attended by Tennessee First Lady Crissy Haslam. First Lady Haslam, Memphis Mayor AC Wharton, Jr., Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell, Jr. serve as ex … Continue reading ACE Center Task Force kicks off inaugural meeting →