The Somatic Care Initiative supports the healing and well-being of those who serve on the margins. Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, it recognizes that caring for the body is part of caring for the soul and that our shared call to justice depends on the health and wholeness of those who carry it forward. We know that this work carries real weight. Many who serve accompany people through trauma, injustice, and deep suffering, often holding the impact of that work in their own bodies and spirits. Over time, stress and grief can take root, affecting health, relationships, and ministry. For those from historically marginalized communities, these burdens can be even heavier.
This initiative was created to offer support, rest, and healing for those who give so much. Through somatic retreats, workshops, and one-on-one support, it helps staff and volunteers of our programs to reconnect with their humanity, release the weight of their work, and restore the balance needed to continue serving with love and courage. Somatic practice invites awareness of how the body carries both pain and resilience, helping participants find renewed grounding in compassion, justice, and the sacred dignity of every person.
Formed to Accompany: Somatic Leadership for Resilient Service
This cohort is designed to support supervisors, program managers, and directors within CVN member organizations. Through somatic practices, coaching, and peer learning, the program offers space to strengthen resilience, deepen leadership capacity, and cultivate sustainable ways of accompanying others in their service:
- Practices for regulating stress and preventing secondary trauma
- Tools for cultivating psychologically safe, accountable team cultures
- Trauma-informed tools for building shared agreements and boundaries
Facilitated by Troy Bronsink — First meeting: April 23, 2026
Somatic Sessions
Staff and volunteers from CVN member organizations are invited to schedule individual sessions with trained somatic practitioners.
These 1:1 sessions are offered at no cost and provide space for grounding, reflection, and practical tools for regulating stress and supporting wellbeing in the midst of service.
Sessions are available on a first come first served basis.