Miami-Dade County's First ACEs Summit: A Movement for Change

For over three years, I envisioned a unified effort to address Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in Miami-Dade County. What started as an idea has now evolved into a powerful movement, uniting key stakeholders to create a roadmap for prevention and mitigation. On November 15, 2024, that vision came to life as Miami-Dade County hosted its inaugural ACEs Summit—a collaborative initiative led by ChoiceMD, the Mayor's Blue Ribbon Children's Commission, and a coalition of influential organizations, including the Early Learning Coalition, The Children's Trust, and the Florida Alliance for Infant Mental Health.

The summit brought together over 164 stakeholders, including public health experts, educators, mental health practitioners, and community leaders, all dedicated to addressing childhood trauma and its long-term consequences. Through insightful discussions, research presentations, and policy recommendations, the event laid the groundwork for transformative action.

Key Takeaways from the Summit

Understanding the Impact of ACEs

Leading experts reinforced the well-documented link between ACEs and long-term health risks, including chronic illnesses such as heart disease, depression, and substance abuse. Presentations highlighted the scientific evidence connecting childhood trauma to educational attainment and socioeconomic stability, underscoring the urgency of comprehensive intervention.

Interdisciplinary Approaches to Prevention and Intervention

Panel discussions emphasized the necessity of a cross-sector approach, integrating healthcare, education, social services, and community organizations. Presenters shared successful models for early intervention and parental support programs. The message was clear: preventing and mitigating ACEs requires collaboration across multiple disciplines.

Policy and Advocacy for Systemic Change

A pivotal focus of the summit was the role of policy in reducing ACEs. Policymakers and advocacy groups discussed legislative initiatives to enhance mental health funding and expand early childhood programs. The commitment to systemic change was evident in every conversation, reinforcing that policy must align with community needs to be effective.

Community Engagement and Grassroots Initiatives

The summit also highlighted the critical role of grassroots organizations in addressing ACEs. Several local groups showcased their efforts, including mentorship programs and family support networks aimed at reducing ACEs within vulnerable communities. Their work demonstrated that sustainable change begins at the community level.

ChoiceMD’s Leadership in Addressing ACEs

As the lead organizer of the summit, ChoiceMD was instrumental in bringing together experts, policymakers, and community stakeholders to initiate tangible action. Our commitment to addressing ACEs extends beyond this event, with a focus on:

1. Enhancing Access to Care: ChoiceMD is improving access to mental health resources for children and families affected by ACEs by connecting people to telehealth services and digital health platforms.
2. Data-Driven Solutions: ChoiceMD will leverage data analytics to help identify high-risk populations and tailor interventions that address specific community needs.
3. Collaboration with Community Partners: Since the summit, a special commission focused on ACEs was initiated under the Children's Commission. Alongside Christine Hughes from the Florida Alliance for Infant Mental Health (FAIMH), I will be co-chairing this commission to develop a comprehensive roadmap for preventing and mitigating ACEs in Miami. Through this effort, ChoiceMD continues to connect people and healthcare by partnering with schools, nonprofit organizations, and local government agencies to establish and strengthen support systems for children and families.

The Beginning of a Movement

The ACEs Summit was more than an event—it was the spark of a movement. It signified a shared commitment to creating a healthier future for Miami’s children and families. The momentum we’ve built will only grow as we continue working together to implement the solutions discussed at the summit.

This is just the beginning. Through collaboration, advocacy, and action, we can break the cycle of trauma and build a resilient community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.