This week, staff at GJR in PA took part in the first session of the Developmental Interactions Workshop Series, a training opportunity focused on one of the most important parts of residential care: the everyday moments that shape connection, trust, and growth.

The training was led by Richard Heresniak, CARE Implementer at Cornell University; Andrea Turnbull, Extension Associate with the Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research; and Mary Ruberti, Extension Associate with the Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research. Together, they brought decades of experience in residential care, child welfare, crisis intervention, staff development, and relationship-based practice. Their guidance helped frame the workshop around the importance of approaching everyday interactions with greater intention, consistency, and developmental understanding.

In residential treatment, meaningful interactions do not only happen during major milestones or structured interventions. They also happen in the ordinary rhythm of daily life through conversations in the hallway, support during difficult moments, shared laughter, redirection, encouragement, and presence. These small interactions may seem routine, but they play a powerful role in helping young people feel safe, understood, and supported.

The Developmental Interactions Workshop Series was designed to help staff better understand, notice, and more purposefully engage in these moments as they occur throughout the day. The training brought supervisors and direct care staff together for shared learning and reflection, while also creating a dedicated space for supervisors to explore their role in fostering a meaningful workplace.

The workshop invited participants to look more closely at the everyday interactions that often define the experience of care and how intentional, relationship-based responses during these small moments create respect, consistent growth, connection, and trust.

The workshop also reflected GJR’s broader commitment to learning and continuous quality improvement. In addition to knowledge and insight, the series strengthens service practices and brings all staff members closer to the principles of CARE.

At GJR, we know the little things matter. This week’s workshop served as a meaningful reminder that everyday moments are never just everyday moments. With the right approaches, they become opportunities for support, healing, and lasting impact.