Build and name the kitchen at Nicole’s House!  Often referred to as “the heart of a home”, the kitchen does so much more than provide meals for the body!  Bonding and life-long lessons can be created here.  It is critical to have a safe, well-equipped commercial kitchen ready to provide nourishment for these children who hunger for so much!  “Cooking with love provides food for the soul!” ~ “Cooking with Love” by Chef Toya

Build and name the room that will provide a fun space for social interaction. Community building is such an important part of these survivors’ recovery process. We have plans for a large, cheerful and intentional space to help facilitate growth through social interaction.

Build and name the primary meeting room where girls will spend time making emotional and behavioral breakthroughs.  The goal of Nicole’s Project is to build strong young citizens who can move forward in society after enduring great trauma.  Our therapy space will provide a nonthreatening, comfortable area for children to heal.

Build and name the special soothing space at Nicole’s House used to de-escalate girls upon arrival and provide space after intense situations, allowing them to re-regulate their nervous system.  This room is an essential, carefully crafted oasis of serenity serving to enhance mental well-being and designed to help the children plug into their spirituality.

Build and name one of the bedrooms at Nicole’s House!  Each girl at Nicole’s House has a therapeutic-level bedroom and bathroom to call their own. Most child survivors have lived with others in a hierarchy, fending for themselves and fearful for their safety on a daily basis.  Having a safe place of their own builds empowerment and is an important part of their recovery.

Build and name one of our outdoor spaces!  Connecting to the natural world serves to help children grow physically, spiritually and emotionally.  For children who have been forced to grow up too soon, reconnecting with the wonders of nature can be an important part of their recovery.

Evidence-based therapies personalized for the needs of each child provided in an atmosphere guided by trauma-informed care will promote a culture of safety, empowerment and healing to help maximize outcomes for survivors. Engaging survivors in their personal journey of recovery is key. This service is of utmost importance!

Besides creating a safe, happy, welcoming environment, furnishings at Nicole’s House will be scrutinized for safety, minimizing the chance of injury or self-harm. Comfortable surroundings will help a sleep deprived child stabilize, enhancing their recovery.  Access to personal items like clothing, shoes, toiletries and haircuts are essential to restoring dignity.

Living under the control of an abuser creates a web of distrust that must be unwound.  Social settings may be difficult and trigger traumatic memories for these children.  Helping the children reassimilate into society safely is a step-by-step process requiring resources.  Birthday celebrations, holiday parties, restaurant experiences, trips to amusement parks and even doctor or dental visits without the presence of an abuser provide essential lessons for a survivor.  

Accidents happen. Help provide resources for the unexpected to cover minor emergencies and services such dental work or eye exams.

The smallest gestures can make the biggest impact, particularly in the life of a traumatized child.  Girls often arrive to treatment with nothing but the clothes on their back. Often afraid, embarrassed and defensive, they may avoid mixing with other children. Special welcome packages, containing basic essentials and a few small treasures are the first stage to a fresh start.  Participating in recovery requires confidence.  Feeling cared for, clean and presentable on the outside is a primary step toward restoring essential dignity.