Early childhood professionals from across the region will have the opportunity to participate in an intensive day of learning and reflection later this month, as CARE for Children hosts a workshop focused on trauma-informed, relationship-based leadership.

The Reflective Leadership Workshop: Courage to CARE is scheduled for Aug. 21, at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, and is designed for educators, social workers, Early Intervention providers and others who support young children and families. The event will take place in Swarts Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with check-in from 8 to 8:30 a.m.

Participants will spend the day exploring how to lead with empathy and connection in systems shaped by trauma, scarcity and inequity. The training will include interactive exercises, reflective practices and honest dialogue around leadership habits, emotional regulation and building trust with children and families. The workshop is being facilitated by Kelly Compton, of Kelly Compton Coaching & Consulting LLC. She is a professional leadership coach, educator and director of Educational Services at the Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit.

Compton brings more than two decades of experience in public education and nonprofit leadership and is a certified Dare to Lead™ facilitator trained in Dr. Brené Brown’s courage-building work.

“The goal is to create a brave space for early childhood professionals to examine how trauma and generational poverty impact the children and families they serve — and to reflect on the values and mindsets they bring into their work,” Compton said. “This kind of reflection is foundational to developing relational and resilient leadership in our communities.”

According to CARE for Children, participants will leave the training better equipped to understand the developmentally informed relational needs of children and how to respond to trauma-related behaviors in a way that builds trust and connection.

Attendees will earn six training hours or six Act 48 hours for professional development. The cost to attend is $60 per person, which includes lunch, refreshments and workshop materials. The registration deadline is Aug. 15, and space is limited. To register, contact CARE for Children at (814) 362-4621 or email reception@careforchildren.info.

The workshop is sponsored by CARE for Children, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children of all abilities through early childhood programs, therapy services and family support.