On February 15, 2023, the Trauma and Resilience Initiative, in partnership with the Champaign County Community Coalition, set up a private discussion and book signing with Cyntoia Brown Long at the Illinois Terminal. The goal of the discussion was for transitional youth and community resource staff to have the opportunity to learn about Cyntoia’s journey from surviving to thriving.
The private discussion drew over 50 attendees, including youth and staff from the Ready Program, members of the Equity & Engagement Department, Courage Connection, First Followers, and staff from the University of Illinois. Attendees were able to submit questions for Cyntoia to discuss. Youth who attended were able engage with Cyntoia, take pictures, and have books signed.
