b'that suit first-time visitors reduces the number of questions for staff. Thoughtful building design provides space for clients to establish friendships through intentional placement of furnishings, corridors, and accommodations for activities. Some psychologists see the physical environ-ment as an opportunity for life-skills training. For example, dignity can be supported by giving clients the ability to provide for themselves, such as getting a cup of cold water in the day lounge or coffee from a pot in the residential living room areawhich clients help maintain. Missions can support clients desires to personalize their bedroom spaces to support a sense of identity. A planned environment sends the message to volunteers and donors that an organization is well managed, respects its clients, and is one they and budgets increase a buildings ability to includewould want to be affiliated with. Volunteers feel trauma-informed elements.safe to spend time there.A trauma-informed environment avoids ele-Advantagesments that could harm its guests. For example, Buildings embracing trauma principles present aa residential facility that includes yellow-painted welcoming face from the street and provide clientsmetal bunk beds (instead of the typical black with a sense that they may find security, safety,color) can avoid a psychological trigger in some and support there, potentially influencing theirclients, making them think of the black bars of a decisions to seek care.jail cell. Another example would be a mission that Buildings embracing trauma principles present a welcoming face from the street and provide clients with a sense that they may find security, safety, and support there, potentially influencing their decisions to seek care.Because theyre designed to reduce stress andcarefully restricts the number of papers taped to promote a calming atmosphere, intentionallyglass and on bulletin boards to avoid visual clutter. designed trauma-informed places may reduce clientA planned, clean interior sends signals of a well-outbursts, lessening the staffs need to get involved.tended, thoughtful organization that actively Thoughtful signage and directions in a buildingmanages its affairs. \x0244 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2021'