A Journey to Healing and Connection: My Visit to Shepherd's Home, a Trauma-Informed Community in the Philippines

Nestled in the heart of the Philippines is a place unlike any other — Shepherd's Home, a community dedicated to healing, connection, and resilience. As a trauma-informed advocate, I recently had the privilege of visiting this remarkable haven and experiencing firsthand the transformative power of empathy, understanding, and shared experiences.

From the moment my team and I arrived at Shepherd's Home,  I felt a sense of warmth and experienced hospitality that seemed to radiate from every corner of the community. The residents welcomed me with open arms, their smiles genuine and their hearts eager to share their stories. This was a place where everyone's journey was respected, where each person's past was acknowledged without judgment, and where the present moment was infused with hope.

What struck me immediately was the community's commitment to learn more and apply trauma-informed principles. Every aspect of Shepherd's Home was designed to create an environment of safety, trust, and empowerment. From the carefully arranged physical spaces to the thoughtful interactions between residents and staff, it was evident that trauma-informed principles were not just concepts here; they were a way of life.

One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to exchange insights and experiences with the residents. We gathered together and engaged in open conversations about trauma, healing, and resilience. As I listened to the stories of triumph and recovery, I was reminded of the incredible strength that lies within each individual. It was a powerful reminder that healing is not a linear journey but a courageous step-by-step process.

After our sharing, we all came together to share a meal that mirrored the richness of our interactions. As we savored each bite just like the connections we were building. There's something inherently bonding about sharing food with others, and in this case, it felt like a symbolic act of unity and understanding.

As my time at Shepherd's Home came to an end, I left with a heart full of gratitude and hope. The experiences shared, the insights gained, and the connections forged were imprints that would remain with me. It was a reminder that no matter where we come from or what we've been through, there's a universal thread that ties us all together — the human capacity for resilience, compassion, and growth.

As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded of the words of Margaret Wheatley:

"There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about."

Shepherd's Home cares deeply about healing, about connection, and about creating a space where individuals can bloom despite their pasts. And I am truly grateful to have experienced it.