Our Story
What began as a simple conversation between two women about creating a discipleship program for women soon grew into something much bigger than either of them imagined. As they prayed, dreamed, and shared their vision with close friends, the idea was welcomed with encouragement, and support.
Then came an unexpected phone call. A friend reached out with a desire to start a youth volunteer community service program. Rather than pursuing separate paths, they joined together, believing they could make a greater impact by working as one.
As conversations continued with community members, local organizations, churches, businesses, and service providers, a clear pattern began to emerge. While many wonderful resources already existed, there were still significant gaps where individuals and families were falling through the cracks. People didn't always need another program—they needed someone to walk alongside them, help them navigate available resources, and remind them they weren't alone.
Those conversations became the foundation of what is now Trenches Collective.
We believe lasting restoration happens through relationships, practical support, community collaboration, and hope. Guided by our faith and a calling to love and serve others, we are committed to walking alongside people through life's most difficult seasons while bringing our community together to build pathways toward stability, resilience, and restoration.
Looking back, we can clearly see God's hand guiding each step of the journey. What started as one small idea became a shared vision, and that vision continues to grow as He opens new doors, builds meaningful partnerships, and brings together people who believe that no one should have to walk through the trenches alone.
Certifications
PPC - Provisional Professional Counselor
Gina (co-founder) brings master's-level education and professional counseling expertise to Trenches Collective, serving as an advisor to our leadership and mentor team. While she does not provide counseling services to participants, she helps guide our mentorship program by promoting trauma-informed practices, healthy boundaries, participant safety, and quality support. Her knowledge helps equip our mentors to serve with compassion, wisdom, and integrity while recognizing when individuals may benefit from additional professional or community resources.
ASIST - Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
A two-day, evidence-informed suicide intervention training that prepares participants to recognize when someone may be experiencing thoughts of suicide, engage in a supportive conversation, develop a safety plan, and connect individuals with appropriate professional and emergency resources. ASIST equips our team to respond with compassion while prioritizing participant safety.
CPR/First Aid/AED Certified
Provides the knowledge and practical skills to recognize and respond to medical emergencies, perform CPR, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and administer first aid until emergency medical services arrive. This training helps ensure our team is prepared to respond confidently and appropriately in emergency situations.
Mental Health First Aid
Teaches participants how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges, provide initial support, and connect individuals with appropriate professional care. The training emphasizes early intervention, reducing stigma, and promoting hope and recovery.
Our Commitment To Safety
Our leadership team and mentors complete nationally recognized safety and crisis-response training to ensure they are equipped to provide compassionate, trauma-informed mentorship, recognize when someone may be in crisis, respond appropriately, and connect participants with professional resources when needed. While Trenches Collective is not a clinical treatment provider, we are committed to maintaining a safe, supportive, and well-prepared environment for everyone we serve.