Core Values
COMPASSIONATE
We demonstrate care, concern, and understanding for all.
COLLABORATIVE
We communicate, cooperate, and work effectively with internal and external partners and stakeholders.
INNOVATIVE
We use new, creative, and evidence-based practices, programs, and services to achieve effective outcomes.
PROFESSIONAL
We act with integrity in a conscientious and ethical manner.
PROACTIVE
We anticipate needs and initiate action.
RESPECTFUL
We treat all people with dignity.
RESPONSIVE
We act quickly and positively.
ACCOUNTABLE
We are transparent, accessible, and take responsibility for our actions.
Trauma Responsive Court
Steering Committee for Pima County Juvenile Court Center (PCJCC) requested an independent trauma audit be conducted for the Court. The trauma audit resulted in 19 recommendations for improvement in our processes, policies, and practices. Click here for full audit.
Initially, we developed a shared definition of what it means to be a "trauma responsive court." We wanted Court staff and stakeholders to have a common language while working to respond to trauma.
Since that audit, the Committee has continued to strive to be responsive to trauma experienced by the children and families we serve. We also expanded on this work in order to be more responsive to our staff and external stakeholders who might experience trauma vicariously.
Trauma occurs when someone is in a situation or experiences an event that feels life threatening, and he or she feels powerless to do anything about it. Many of the children and families who come to our court have survived trauma like child abuse, neglect, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, or domestic violence. In order to be a trauma-responsive court, we must assume every person we interact with at the court may have a trauma history, and we must do our best to treat them with compassion and not re-traumatize them. We teach staff about the causes and effects of trauma and give them specific tips for communicating and working with people who have experienced trauma. We are aware and concerned about the well-being of our staff due to the nature of our work. We ensure our facilities are safe and feel safe to everyone, and are comfortable and welcoming. We strive to use policies, programs, and interventions that are appropriate for people with trauma histories. Lastly, we remain vigilant, always assessing our trauma-responsiveness, and following emerging research on trauma-responsive practices and trauma-focused treatments.
