Ahead of his presentation at our May 7, 2025 conference, T4TCS co-founder Eric Poirier is interviewed by Jean Bota of The Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association. The speaking engagement abstract is provided below. While trauma-informed awareness is a valuable tool for addressing the root causes of crime, it's important to acknowledge that first responder activities remain essential for maintaining public safety. Trauma-informed approaches can complement traditional first responder strategies by providing a more holistic understanding of crime and its underlying factors. Key considerations for integrating trauma-informed awareness into first responder practices include: First Responder Training, De-escalation Techniques, Collaboration with Community Partners, Data-Driven/Intelligence Led Approaches and Community Engagement In this session Eric will speak about incorporating trauma-informed awareness into first responder practices, to create a more compassionate and effective approach to public safety that addresses both the immediate needs of crime prevention and the long-term well-being of individuals and communities. He will also discuss the components of Trauma-Informed Awareness as a holistic approach that recognizes the prevalence of trauma in individuals and communities and seeks to create environments that are safe, supportive, and responsive to the needs of those who have experienced trauma. Through this session, delegates will also be provided with the benefits of Trauma-Informed Awareness,& how Trauma-Informed Awareness plays a role in/ & is a crucial component of addressing the root causes of violent extremism, gangs, and organized crime. Eric will demonstrate to the delegates that by understanding and addressing the underlying trauma experiences of individuals, we can reduce the likelihood of their involvement in harmful behaviors. Delegates will also learn Trauma-informed approaches that will help individuals develop resilience, cope with difficult emotions, and build positive relationships, ultimately contributing to safer and more cohesive communities. Additionally, by fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that reduces the appeal of extremist ideologies and criminal activities.