TRUE Center was founded to increase equitable access to trauma-based training, intervention, and prevention services for children, families, community members, and professionals—regardless of ability to pay. While almost half of DC children have experienced trauma, most children who need mental health support after trauma don’t receive it – a gap that is even more pronounced for children of color. High costs, long waitlists, limited hours, and long distances to effective treatment resources make recovering from trauma inaccessible to all but a privileged few. Many caregivers and community members are so overworked and under-resourced that they can’t respond effectively to every child that needs their help. All of this means that DC area children and families are more vulnerable to experiences of trauma, and those who most need support don't have access to it.

TRUE stands for Trauma Resilience Understanding and Education. Resilience, understanding, and education are all part of effective and compassionate care for children and families who have been through trauma. Our patients tell their truth in treatment. Our team wanted our name to not only reflect the services we provide but also our standards and commitment to provide every child equal access to treatment and prevention services that work.

Pause, Sip, Ponder was founded by Pauline Ponders. An Artist, Educator, and Storyteller, Pauline creates with intention—finding meaning in both the process and the pause. As the director of Pause, Sip & Ponder, she cultivates spaces for reflection, creativity, and authentic expression through art, teaching, and community conversations. Through the art of gathering, the community embraces the beauty of learning, evolving, and inspiring one another others and to reflect on the moments that shape us.

Tools for Tomorrow: Healing, Mindfulness and Calming Kits

By TRUE Center

Tools for Tomorrow: Healing, Mindfulness and Calming Kits

With TRUE Center and Pause, Sip, & Ponder