WASHINGTON — D.C.'s kids are in crisis, with carjackings, robberies, and homicides on the rise.
The TraRon Center works to help them heal their trauma through art therapy and mental health supports.
Ryane Nickens founded the center in 2017 to do just that.
She lost her uncle, sister, and brother to gun violence in the 90s and has worked tirelessly ever since to help others experiencing the same thing to heal.
In 2023, the center was able to support upwards of 30 children and their families with art therapy, mental health counseling, and after-school activities.
They also hired a full-time art therapist who works with the children each week after school.
TraRon Center supporting DC kids with art therapy
During the summer, the center hosted a camp for more than 50 kids, where they took them rock climbing, camping, and to other outdoor activities.
The TraRon Center also granted more than five rising college students who have experienced gun violence with scholarships for the second year in a row, thanks to support from The Jeremy Black Memorial Fund.
Wednesday night, WUSA9's Jess Arnold hosted the center's year-end event to thank donors for supporting the cause for the last six years and ask for continued support for next year's goals.
With increased funding, Nickens said she hopes to hire a social worker, development director, and two more trauma therapists.
Her ultimate goal is to be able to support 500 D.C. kids.
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