The New Kid on the Block
Six months later, Andrew shares what surprised him most, what he's learned, and why he believes this work matters more than ever.
Back in March, I introduced myself to you with our “Gone Fishin’” newsletter, as Garry was taking a well-deserved break for March break. For those who haven’t been personally introduced, I run a social media marketing company called Social Schmoes and both Pathways to Education and Teach Resilience were my clients. I’ve worked with Teach Resilience's social media since its inception and have always felt like part of the team (with the TRTLs doing a great job at making that so). Once I found out that this position was available, I knew I had to apply. Why? Because I believe in their work.
I must admit, coming into this position, I thought I knew most of what they did based on the numerous meetings I’ve had with Roger and other team members. I didn’t even know the half of it! In early January, I traveled to Mississauga to help the TRTLs facilitate their Trauma-Informed Approaches in Primary Care for Wellfort Community Health Services. It was the first time I had watched the TRTLs and our medical advisors do their thing.
And I was amazed.
The information was delivered in a clear and passionate manner; unlike any training or information session I'd attended before. They were funny, kind, receptive, and knowledgeable. And don’t get me started on the doctors’ portion in the afternoon! It was like watching a live podcast! Not only was I entertained by watching this firsthand for the first time, but I also learned so much.
Before experiencing the training firsthand, I knew this work was important. Now I see it as essential for anyone that deals with youth, the vulnerable sector, or healthcare.
Something else I didn’t expect: this work is HARD. There are always a lot of moving pieces, and keeping everything and everyone on track takes real coordination. I’ve learned a couple hard lessons, but so far, every training I've had a hand in has gone off without a hitch.
My biggest takeaway from the training I've been part of so far is that trauma is everywhere. It touches most of us, if not all of us, in some way. Whether we've experienced it firsthand, know someone who has, or are in a position to support someone affected by it, trauma is more common than many of us realize. Understanding that has changed the way I see the people around me and reminds me of the importance of leading with empathy.
I have really enjoyed working for myself for the past 6 years. Being my own boss was more fulfilling than I could have ever imagined. But this role has been even more rewarding. The small role I play in helping bring these trainings to life is something that I am proud of and boast about. Not only that, but it has given me something to work towards, in both my roles with Pathways and TR. I want to be more involved with the programming that Pathways offers, all of which is made possible, in part, by the work Teach Resilience does, as well as one day becoming a TR trainer myself.
So, there's a reflection on what it's been like to be the newest kid on the block.. I’ve felt welcomed, valued, and I can’t wait to continue our work.
Andrew Taggart (On behalf of the Teach Resilience Team)