Reach Hurting Kids Institute is an interdisciplinary team of researchers, mental health professionals, and children’s ministry experts. We provide trauma-informed children’s ministry resources that empower the Church to reach the hurting kids in our congregations and communities.
Our purpose is to provide trauma-informed children’s ministry resources that empower the Church to reach the hurting kids in our congregations and communities. Together, we will tear down the barriers that prevent hurting kids from coming to Jesus and welcome the most vulnerable among us into the family of God.
We envision a Church that recognizes the impact of childhood trauma and responds with compassion and understanding, creating communities where every child can experience healing and spiritual growth.
Our vision is that the Church would become a supportive community that realizes the widespread impact of childhood trauma, recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma, and responds to children’s needs in a way that helps them heal and draw closer to Christ and His Church
Trauma-Informed Faith Communities: Promoting awareness and understanding of trauma within church settings.
Christ-Centered, Research-Based Intervention: Combining theological principles with scientific research to inform our resources.
Ecumenical and Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working across denominations and professions to serve children effectively.
Honoring the Value and Agency of Children: Recognizing and respecting each child’s worth and voice in the healing process.
Reach Hurting Kids Institute is an interdisciplinary team of researchers, mental health professionals, and children’s ministry experts.
Robert G. Crosby, PhD
Executive Director
Rev. Kayla Smith
Associate Director
Lori Crosby, MFT, RPT-S
Chief Inspiration Officer
Erin Smith, PhD
Research Director
Reach Hurting Kids Institute represents a collective effort by Christian researchers, pastors, mental health practitioners, professors, authors, conference speakers, professional networks, and parachurch organizations to reach the hurting kids in our congregations and communities.