Coeur d’Alene, Idaho — Strong, Safe & Aware will host a special community event at the Coeur d’Alene Library featuring Elina Viitasaari, a renowned trauma-informed practitioner and violence prevention specialist from Finland, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
This FREE presentation will explore how unresolved trauma, social exclusion, and declining trust contribute to cycles of violence — from interpersonal and youth violence to broader community and societal conflicts.
Drawing on her extensive international experience in trauma-informed practice, violence prevention, and the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, Viitasaari will examine the connections between trauma, violence, and social cohesion. The presentation will highlight how unaddressed trauma can be transmitted across generations and how early intervention, dialogue, and community engagement can break these cycles.
Attendees will learn practical approaches for strengthening resilience, rebuilding trust, and fostering safer, more inclusive communities. The session connects local experiences with broader peacebuilding efforts, offering actionable insights for preventing violence and promoting sustainable peace and human security.
Event Schedule:
● 4:30 – 5:00 PM: Meet and greet with the speaker
● 5:00 – 6:00 PM: Presentation
● 6:00 – 6:30 PM: Q&A session