Bend accessibility committee signals interest in Welcome Week participation and trauma‑informed lunch‑and‑learn

Bend — At its June 26 meeting, the City of Bend Accessibility Advisory Committee discussed whether to participate in Welcome Week and to host or support a trauma‑in‑learn session for city staff on trauma‑informed practices.

Cassandra, the city’s accessibility and equity manager, asked members whether the committee wanted to take part in Welcome Week activities and, if so, what types of events they preferred. Committee members said they were broadly interested in activities ranging from an accessibility mixer similar to the prior year’s “walk and roll” to an information booth at CityFest (date not yet confirmed but likely late August). Whitney Bennett and Amanda Hamer expressed support for a visible presence during Welcome Week to connect with nonprofit partners and to raise awareness of the committee’s work.

On training, Stephanie Upsman said the committee helped propose trauma‑informed trainings as part of the city’s accessibility work and offered to contact a trainer (Janine or Jill Bauer as referenced in meeting discussion) about availability and cost for a 60–90 minute lunch‑and‑learn session in September or October. Cassandra said the event would be staff‑led with COBAC members encouraged to attend and help facilitate; she offered to follow up with scheduling and cost details.

Next steps

Cassandra will contact absent members by email to gauge interest in participating in Welcome Week events, confirm CityFest dates when available, and follow up on trainer availability and estimated costs for the trauma‑in‑learn lunch session.