A mockup of a Trauma Support Digital Resource, which would provide access to support groups, workshops, and recovery events, serving as a hub for information and community support.

Welcome to the Ideas of March. Over the next couple of weeks, the Source has partnered with Mansfield Rising and the Richland County Foundation to introduce 9 new ideas for a better Mansfield and Richland County. Each day will bring a new idea and a new opportunity. Tell us what you think of this idea by completing the feedback form at the bottom of this story!

MANSFIELD — Safety and violence prevention needs to be at the forefront of every community development plan.

Ensuring our residents have a safe space to live, work, and go to school are the fundamental building blocks that grow a healthy city and attract investment.

During a May 2024 gun violence panel discussion, survivors shared how exposure to gun violence led to insomnia, anxiety, social disconnection, and loneliness.

They emphasized strengthening connections with law enforcement and events like “Peace on My Block” as essential for healing.

With 70% of Americans supporting more mental health funding and a 154% increase in telehealth services since 2020, Mansfield is ready for accessible trauma support through digital resources.

A Trauma Support Digital Resource would provide access to support groups, workshops, and recovery events, serving as a hub for information and community support while reducing isolation and fostering resilience and mental well-being among residents.

The resource might include:

  • AI-Enabled Chatbot: Instant information, personalized recommendations, and emotional support.
  • Connecting with Users: Facilitates peer-to-peer connections and mentorship opportunities.
  • Community Events Calendar: Lists workshops and events for survivors and families.
  • Task Force: Coordinates local organization efforts for comprehensive support.
  • Support Groups: Local and virtual support groups.
  • Care Packages: Resources and items to help manage trauma.
  • Trauma Resources: Articles, videos, and tools for understanding and coping.

Project breakdown

Est. Cost: The estimated first-year cost is $80,000, covering web/app development, content creation, support materials, events, and marketing.

Ongoing costs are $30,000 annually.

Potential Partners: Local Authorities and Officials, Healthcare and Mental Health Providers, Community and Civic Groups, Educational Institutions, Corporate Sponsors.

Timeline: We suggest a 12-month pilot program with significant stakeholders like mental health professionals and law enforcement to prove effectiveness and need.

Author’s perspective

We asked Sandy Messner, the architect of this concept, to break it down further for us.

“As I shared in my SXSW blog, the most powerful lesson I learned in Austin was this: it not only takes a village to thrive, but it takes individuals within those communities to activate, collaborate and make great ideas flourish,” Messner said.

“Public safety is no exception. I attended a SXSW session, Community is the Future of Public Safety, where the panelists emphasized that lasting change comes from engaged communities, restorative justice, and trauma-informed interventions…a shift from reactive to proactive solutions.

“That’s exactly why, after returning, I partnered with NECIC to convene a panel discussion with survivors of gun violence in Mansfield. Their voices made it clear…recovery and safety require not just enforcement, but healing, connection, and community-driven action.

“The lessons learned at SXSW, coupled with the insights from the Mansfield gun violence discussion, directly shaped the vision for the Digital Trauma Support Resource in Mansfield Rising 2.0.

“Survivors expressed the critical need for easily accessible, trauma-informed support that extends beyond immediate crisis response. This project is designed to provide both digital and in-person resources, including support groups, counseling connections, care packages, and community events, ensuring those affected by violence have a network of healing and recovery.

This work will take all of us. Looking forward to continuing the conversation and activating real solutions together.”

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Mansfield Rising is a citizen-led community development project which began in 2018 as a way to reimagine Downtown Mansfield.