A Healing-Centered Approach: Nurturing Collective Well-Being
The Velma Carter Centre is an organization that has been established to address the challenges that Black Women face in today’s fast-paced world. There is no denying that stress and trauma are a part of many people’s lives, and we believe that our centre can be a symbol of hope and transformation amidst all the chaos.
At the Velma Carter Centre, we are committed to promoting healing, which extends beyond individual experiences and encompasses the collective. We understand that healing is a process that involves not just the person, but also their surroundings, and hence, our approach aims to weave together various aspects such as culture, spirituality, civic action, and community engagement. We believe that by doing so, we can create a more supportive environment that fosters growth and transformation, both at an individual and collective level. We are dedicated to providing a safe space for Black Women to heal and grow, and we believe that our efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
Understanding Healing-Centered Approaches
Holistic Perspective
A healing-centered approach recognizes that healing is not just about addressing physical ailments or mental distress. It encompasses the whole person—their mind, body, spirit, and community. By embracing cultural practices, rituals, and traditions, we honour the interconnectedness of all aspects of well-being.
Trauma as a Collective Experience
Trauma affects not only the individual but also the fabric of society. When we view trauma through a collective lens, we see patterns emerge—historical trauma, systemic oppression, and shared pain. Healing becomes a communal endeavor, where we acknowledge the wounds of the past and work toward restoration.
Shifting the Question
Traditional trauma-informed care often asks, “What happened to you?” While this question is essential, a healing-centered approach expands our inquiry. We ask, “What’s right with you?” By focusing on strengths, resilience, and agency, we empower individuals to co-create their well-being narratives.
Agents of Their Own Healing
We recognize that those exposed to trauma are not mere victims. They are agents of their own healing. By fostering self-determination, we encourage individuals to reclaim their power, rewrite their stories, and contribute to the healing of their communities.
Spirituality as a Path to Healing
Spirituality can provide a source of comfort, guidance, and strength during challenging times. We recognize the importance of spirituality in the healing process and offer spiritual support services tailored to the needs of Black Women. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reflection, we encourage individuals to explore their spiritual beliefs and practices as a means of finding peace, solace, and inner harmony. By integrating spirituality into our healing-centered approach, we provide holistic support that addresses the spiritual dimensions of well-being.
Advocacy and Social Justice
Healing is not just an individual journey—it is also a collective responsibility. We are committed to advocating for social justice and addressing the systemic injustices that disproportionately impact Black Women. By amplifying the voices of Black Women and advocating for change, we strive to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and flourish.
Education and Empowerment
Knowledge is power. We believe in empowering individuals through education and information. Through workshops, educational content and our programs, we provide Black Women with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to navigate life’s challenges, advocate for themselves, and make informed decisions about their health and well-being. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to advocate for themselves and their communities, we empower them to take control of their lives and create positive change.
Building Bridges Across Communities
Healing has no boundaries. We are dedicated to building connections between communities. We strongly believe in the power of solidarity, allyship, and collaboration in promoting healing and driving social change. By partnering with community organizations, businesses, and institutions, we aim to foster cooperation and collaboration to address common challenges and enhance collective well-being. Through coming together across all differences, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Ubuntu: The Essence of Healing
The concept of Ubuntu is deeply rooted in the South African philosophy and culture. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of our relationships with one another.
According to Ubuntu, we find healing and fulfillment through collective engagement, empathy, and service to others. This philosophy teaches us that our own well-being is inseparable from the well-being of our neighbours and community. Therefore, we must strive to promote the common good and work towards a more just and equitable society for all. In essence, Ubuntu encourages us to embrace our shared humanity and work together to build a better world.
The philosophy of Ubuntu is also embraced in other parts of Africa and the Diaspora. Despite all odds, Ubuntu still resides in many of our hearts.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey of Healing
As we conclude this exploration of healing-centered approaches and the transformative power of collective well-being, we invite you to reflect on the journey ahead. Healing is not a destination but a continuous process—a journey of self-discovery, growth, and resilience. At the Velma Carter Centre, we are committed to walking alongside you on this path, offering support, guidance, and encouragement every step of the way.
Love and power,
Velma Carter Centre Team