About

80x3 is an early childhood education and care initiative launched by Greater Twin Cities United Way in 2022. We are on a mission to address and minimize the impacts of childhood trauma and expand our region’s capacity to deliver trauma-sensitive care.

We envision a world where all young children, their families and caregivers have the support and resources to overcome childhood trauma and thrive.

A group of preschoolers sit together at a table and are being served a snack

What is Childhood Trauma?

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur in children ages 17 and under. ACEs are widespread and can have an impact on individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background.

ACEs may include but are not limited to:

Experiencing violence, abuse or neglect
Growing up in a household with substance abuse or mental health issues
Parental separation, divorce, incarceration, death or suicide
Housing or food insecurity
Bullying, gang fighting and shootings

The Impact of Childhood Trauma

A child’s brain is like a sponge, and research shows that ACEs can alter brain development and lead to a variety of long-lasting negative outcomes.

The long-term impact of ACEs is associated with negative outcomes in:

Physical health (e.g., stroke, heart disease and diabetes)
Mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety and suicide)
Social health (e.g., instability in employment, education and relationships)

About 64% of U.S. adults have experienced at least one type of ACE, and the accumulation of ACEs increases the likelihood of adverse health outcomes. While ACEs can happen to anyone, childhood trauma is disproportionately experienced by marginalized communities and those facing poverty.

Trauma-Sensitive, Healing-Centered Support

Research shows that trauma-sensitive caregiving can help children grow their resiliency. Early intervention and informed caregiving can lead to long-lasting benefits in adulthood, including improved physical and mental health outcomes, higher educational attainment and higher wages.

By collaborating with nonprofits and leveraging government expertise, 80x3 empowers local early childhood education and care programs to effectively integrate trauma-sensitive care.

In its first year, 80x3’s efforts in Minnesota have supported approximately

100

educators

30

organization leaders

440

families

Sustaining Transformative Change

No single person or organization can address the impact of childhood trauma. It requires a sustained commitment and concerted effort from government agencies, healthcare providers, educators, social workers and community organizations. Each of these groups has a unique role to play in promoting resilience and supporting those affected by trauma.

By working together, we can create a world where all children can grow up healthy and safe.

Thank You to Our Partners

Fueled by the expertise and efforts of our dedicated partners, 80x3 stands as a testament to the power of collaboration. We’d like to thank our funded partners, consultants and advisors for their contributions which have helped turn this idea into a reality.

The insights from the following organizations have shaped and informed 80x3’s important work:

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