Ukeru Systems

03/31/2026

Spring has sprung- and so has our March Newsletter! 🌷

This month's issue features recent speaking engagements, creative decorated pads, and some fun videos! ✨

Check it out and see what we’ve been up to! 💙

Back in 2008, I stood in front of a small room at an Autism Society of America Conference in Florida and delivered Ukeru’s very first presentation. It had been only four years since our CEO at the time, Jim Gaynor, issued the mandate to minimize restraint and seclusion — a moment that set everyt...

03/26/2026

We're so excited to be a part of Alexander Youth Network's trauma-informed journey! ⭐

We are taking another step forward in strengthening safety and compassion across our programs with the implementation of Ukeru Systems.

Ukeru gives our teams trauma-informed tools to support youth during moments of high distress, helping reduce restrictive practices while protecting dignity and preserving relationships.

In March, we will begin introducing Ukeru to youth through therapeutic, age-appropriate activities across our residential and crisis programs. This thoughtful rollout reflects our ongoing commitment to safer spaces and stronger connections.

The goal is simple.
Fewer injuries.
Stronger relationships.
More healing.

If you are not familiar with Ukeru, we invite you to watch the video below to learn more about this important work: https://youtu.be/G35jWhF4Uis?si=5I862UvNBh7MSx1H

03/24/2026

Magnolia Independent School District implemented Ukeru in the 2023-2024 school year, and quickly scaled from a pilot to districtwide success!✨

The work they have been doing to transform how staff support students in crisis and create safe, supportive classrooms is tremendous! 💙

Check out the full case study here! ⬇
bit.ly/MagnoliaISDCaseStudy

03/19/2026

What a powerful, uplifting week exhibiting and presenting at the Association Of Children's Residential Centers’ 70th annual conference! ⭐️🎤

Our President, Kim Sanders, joined Vance Heaney of Ranch Ehrlo Society to deliver a session focused on driving meaningful, trauma-informed impact.

We’re leaving Chicago inspired by the incredible connections made with new and familiar faces. Thank you to everyone working to change lives across the globe! 🌎✨

03/16/2026

Ukeru is headed to the Pine Tree State! 🌲

Become a certified Ukeru trainer and help your staff to explore practical and effective ways to de-escalate and prevent crisis, calm the amygdala, and create safer environments without relying on restrictive practices. 🧠

There are still spots available! Message us for more information!✉️

03/14/2026

We’re so thankful for our partnership with Brighter Transition Youth Treatment Center! ⭐️

We love coming to see you all, it’s like coming back to see old friends every time. ☺️

The things your staff have accomplished and the culture you’ve created for your students is astonishing! ✨

We’re excited to share something truly worth celebrating! Since 2020, our safety incidents have decreased by an incredible 77%. Yes… SEVENTY SEVEN PERCENT!!

This didn’t happen by accident. It happened because of people; our dedicated staff and the strong relationships they build with our students every single day. It happened because we embraced The Sanctuary Institute's Sanctuary Model, Ukeru Systems, and CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute), and we committed to ongoing training that keeps our team growing, learning, and supporting students in the safest, most compassionate ways possible. This progress reflects a culture shift, a commitment to safety, and a whole lot of heart!!

To our staff: thank you for showing up, leaning in, and making a difference.
To our students: thank you for trusting us and growing with us.

Here’s to continuing the momentum and creating an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

This week we also welcomed amazing trainers, Sandra and Josh, from Ukeru Systems to campus! They spent the day recertifying our trainers, checking in on how Ukeru is being utilized, and connecting with our staff and students. Ukeru has been such an incredible addition to our campus, and we’re thrilled to have them on our team as we continue building a safer, more supportive environment for everyone.

Here’s to progress, partnership, and the positive momentum ahead!!

03/12/2026

We’re counting down the days until the Association Of Children's Residential Centers' 70th Annual Conference next week! 🎉

Ukeru will be exhibiting and co-presenting alongside Ranch Ehrlo Society! ✨

We’re looking forward to connecting with professionals who are passionate about creating safer, more compassionate environments! 💙

If you’re attending ACRC, be sure to stop by and say hello! 👋

03/11/2026

Are you ready to bring Ukeru to your corner of Big Sky Country? 🌄

Join our upcoming training in Montana and build the skills and confidence to implement Ukeru in your workplace and increase safety! ⭐

Our team will be conducting training, as well as exhibiting and speaking at Montana's Council for Exceptional Children conference! Stop by our booth, join our session, and be a part of this growing movement in Montana! 🎉

03/08/2026

Today we recognize the women across our field who are creating safer, more compassionate environments for the people they serve.💙

Your leadership helps bring our philosophies to life- prioritizing dignity, empathy, and understanding in the moments that matter the most.⭐

03/02/2026

Throwing it back to last year’s CEC magic!✨
There was so much energy, learning, connections- and we’re ready to do it all again. 🎉
Who’s joining us at Council for Exceptional Children's annual conference in Salt Lake City this year? 👀

02/28/2026

To close out Black History Month, we’re highlighting powerful children’s books that bring joy and history to the forefront!🎉

These stories go beyond kindness- they empower readers to embrace who they are and celebrate the brilliance in others. ⭐

When we show up for one another with intentionality, we create environments and culture where everyone can thrive. 💙

02/27/2026

February flew by, and so did our latest newsletter! ⭐

There's so many meaningful updates in this one! 💙

Check it out! ⬇
bit.ly/Feb26UkeruNewsletter

There is nothing better for the soul than witnessing the very things that form the foundation of Grafton and Ukeru Systems happening in real life. These moments are happening constantly, but every once in a while one hits with such clarity and intensity that it brings everything home. I recently had...