Kevin Cameron, the newly appointed member of the Order of Canada and executive director of the Centre for Trauma Informed Practices, reflects on his unexpected recognition and the profound journey that led him to this point. His initial reaction to the call from the Governor General’s office was one of apprehension, mistaking it for a request related to his work in violence risk assessment. The realization that it was an announcement of his prestigious award left him in stunned silence. This honor, however, is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective dedication of his team and the impact of their work in trauma response and violence prevention across Canada.
The genesis of the Centre for Trauma Informed Practices can be traced back to the tragic W.R. Myers High School shooting in Taber, Alberta, in 1999, just eight days after the Columbine High School massacre. Cameron and his colleagues, then at the beginning of their careers, found themselves navigating the uncharted territory of trauma response in the wake of this devastating event. They were driven by a desire to help, even without a clear roadmap or established protocols. The Taber tragedy became a catalyst for their work, fueling their determination to understand the roots of such violence and develop effective strategies for prevention and intervention.
The Centre’s work operates on two interconnected fronts: trauma response and violence prevention. One aspect focuses on supporting individuals grappling with the aftermath of traumatic events, assisting them in processing grief, loss, and the emotional scars left by violence. The other, equally crucial, aspect aims to preemptively address the potential for violence by identifying and intervening with individuals at risk. This proactive approach recognizes the link between unresolved trauma and the propensity towards violent behavior. Cameron emphasizes the importance of providing support to those who have experienced trauma, highlighting the potential for unaddressed trauma to fuel a cycle of violence.
Kerry Cameron, Kevin’s wife and colleague, elaborates on the preventative aspect of their work, emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Their goal is to intercept individuals struggling with violent thoughts before those thoughts translate into actions. They strive to reach individuals long before they resort to extreme measures, offering support and resources to address the underlying issues fueling their distress. This preventive approach seeks to disrupt the trajectory towards violence, offering alternative pathways for healing and resolution.
The impact of the Centre’s work extends far beyond the prairies of Alberta, reaching communities across Canada, from bustling metropolises like Toronto to remote northern settlements like Tuktoyaktuk in the Northwest Territories. Pat Rivard, the Canadian director of operations at the Centre, underscores the widespread adoption of their violence prevention model, highlighting its adaptability and effectiveness in diverse contexts. The model complements existing community initiatives, enhancing their impact and fostering positive outcomes in the ongoing effort to reduce violence. This nationwide reach demonstrates the universality of the principles underpinning their approach.
Kevin Cameron emphasizes the collaborative nature of their work, acknowledging the crucial role his team played in achieving this recognition. The Order of Canada, while bestowed upon him, is a reflection of the collective efforts and dedication of everyone involved in the Centre for Trauma Informed Practices. Their shared commitment to trauma response and violence prevention has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities across the country. This award serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that collaborative, compassionate work can have on society.
