Together, we can create a Canada where everyone is informed, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential.
NELO DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION
By understanding and addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), we can build resilience, promote healing, and foster healthier individuals and communities
ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES (ACEs)
Things that happen before a person becomes 18 that can cause trauma are called adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Or they are things that make a child feel that their immediate family is not safe or stable.
A few examples of ACEs are violent behavior, neglect, abuse, and challenges with mental health or drug use in the family.
Who We Are
Nelo Development and Empowerment Foundation (NDEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world where every child and adult can heal, grow, and thrive no matter their past experiences.
We believe that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress don’t have to define anyone’s future. Through compassion, education, and empowerment, we help individuals and communities break the cycle of trauma and build resilience that lasts a lifetime.
About Us
Our Promise
Every story matters. Every life can heal.
At NDEF, we walk alongside individuals and communities turning awareness into action, pain into purpose, and adversity into empowerment.
Contact us: nelodevem@gmail.com
Vision
A world where every child, youth, and adult thrives free from the lifelong impact of trauma — empowered by healing, resilience, and hope to reach their fullest potential.
Mission
At Nelo Development and Empowerment Foundation (NDEF), our mission is to break the cycle of adversity by addressing the root causes and lasting effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress.
Healing Childhood. Building Resilience. Empowering Futures.
Contact us: nelodevem@gmail.com
Our Core Values
1. Compassion
We lead with empathy, understanding that healing begins with kindness, respect, and genuine human connection.
2. Empowerment
We believe every individual has the strength and capacity to overcome adversity. Our work helps people reclaim their voice, confidence, and agency.
3. Resilience
We honor the courage it takes to rise above life’s challenges. Through support and education, we help build the resilience needed to thrive not just survive.
4. Collaboration
Healing and transformation happen in community. We partner with families, schools, organizations, and policymakers to create environments where everyone can flourish.
5. Integrity
We are guided by transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership in all we do, ensuring that our actions always reflect our mission and values.
6. Inclusion
We celebrate diversity and ensure that every person regardless of background, trauma, or circumstance feels seen, valued, and supported.
Every story matters. Every life can heal.
At NDEF, we walk alongside individuals and communities turning awareness into action, pain into purpose, and adversity into empowerment.
🌱 Curriculum Title:
Understanding and Addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Building Resilience and Promoting Healing
🎯 Overall Goals
By the end of this program, participants will be able to:
Understand what ACEs are and how they affect lifelong health and behavior.
Identify signs of trauma and toxic stress in children and adults.
Apply trauma-informed approaches in professional and community settings.
Promote resilience and protective factors at individual and systemic levels.
What is Toxic Stress
Toxic stress refers to the body’s prolonged activation of the stress response system when a person is exposed to strong, frequent, or long-lasting adversity without adequate support from caring adults or healthy coping mechanisms.
We strive to:
Educate and empower communities with trauma-informed knowledge and practices.
Support healing through programs that nurture emotional, mental, and social well-being.
Advocate for systemic change that protects children, strengthens families, and builds resilience.
Foster collaboration among educators, caregivers, and policymakers to create safe, nurturing environments where individuals can grow and flourish.
However — Healing Is Possible
With early intervention, supportive relationships, and trauma-informed care, individuals can build resilience, recover from trauma, and lead healthy, fulfilling lives
🕊️ “Every child is a thread in the fabric of humanity — remove one, and the pattern is broken.”
🌿 “Where NDEF plants hope, the roots of toxic stress cannot grow.”
🌱 “A child’s worth is not measured by the shade of their skin, but by the light in their heart.”
🌍 “The sun shines on every child; it does not choose by color.”
🌻 “In the hands of NDEF, the poison of toxic stress becomes the medicine of strength.”
However — Healing Is Possible
With early intervention, supportive relationships, and trauma-informed care, individuals can build resilience, recover from trauma, and lead healthy, fulfilling lives
Healing Childhood. Building Resilience. Empowering Futures.
🔥 “When healing lights the path, the shadow of toxic stress disappears.”
🌈 “NDEF turns the storms of stress into the rain that nourishes resilience.”
Toxic stress can turn into lasting trauma.
Foster support, communicate openly, and prioritize well-being to protect yourself and your team.
Toxic stress can leave lasting scars, but together we can prevent it. Build support, speak openly, and prioritize well-being to protect yourself and empower your team.”
Do your best to avoid too much stress — take time to rest, stay connected with supportive people, and practice activities that bring calm and joy. Managing stress helps protect your mind, body, and overall well-being.
🌿 “Where NDEF plants hope, the roots of toxic stress cannot grow.”
Addressing ACEs in workplace
🌱 “A child’s worth is not measured by the shade of their skin, but by the light in their heart.”
Creating a supportive and respectful work environment helps prevent toxic stress and promotes emotional well-being for everyone.
