Healing After the Unthinkable: How SOME’s Journey Project Supports Survivors of Gun Violence
Since launching in 2022, SOME’s Journey Project has been a lifeline for those impacted by gun violence in D.C. Designed to meet the complex needs of primary and secondary survivors, the program offers individualized, trauma-informed care rooted in dignity, community, and long-term healing.
So far, we’ve received 309 referrals and supported over 285 survivors—each with their own story, strength, and path toward recovery. Today, we’re honored to walk alongside 71 active clients, and this fiscal year alone, we’ve welcomed 33 new participants.
What Healing Looks Like at the Journey Project
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why the Journey Project brings together a wide range of services to meet people where they are—emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Trauma Peer Support
Peer Specialists—individuals with lived experience—play a vital role in building trust and breaking down barriers to care. They provide case management, help clients obtain vital documents, connect to medical and legal services, coordinate transportation, and more. For clients with sensory challenges, we offer ride-share support to ensure safe and comfortable travel.
Trauma-Informed Therapy
We offer evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. EMDR has proven particularly effective for both single-event and complex trauma. Our goal is to ensure every SOME therapist is trained and equipped to deliver this care in person or via telehealth.
Telehealth Accessibility
All clients have access to remote therapy through a secure, low-barrier telehealth platform. Audio-only sessions are also available to meet individual preferences.
Creative Expression Music Group
Offered in partnership with Network of Doves and led by musician Jeff Majors Graham, this weekly group helps participants process trauma and grief through music—a proven tool for emotional healing and self-expression.
Trauma-Informed Yoga
Led by instructor Jessica Wedell, these sessions use movement, mindfulness, and breathwork to help survivors reduce stress, regulate emotions, and reconnect with their bodies.
Psychiatric Medication Management
Clients who wish to explore medication as part of their recovery can meet with psychiatric providers for evaluation and ongoing support.
Crisis Stabilization
For clients in acute crisis, we offer referrals to Jordan House—SOME’s 14-day trauma-informed stabilization program and one of only two in the city. This facility provides round-the-clock care and close coordination with Journey Project staff.
Housing as Healing
Stable housing is essential to recovery. Journey Project clients can access SOME’s transitional and long-term housing programs, with staff support throughout the application process.
Basic Needs and Community Resources
In line with SOME’s founding mission, we provide food, hygiene supplies, clothing, and household items to meet urgent daily needs and reduce stress during recovery.
Workforce Development
When ready, clients are connected to SOME’s Center for Employment Training (CET) for job readiness support and career placement services.
Monthly Grief Group
We offer a supportive space for clients to process grief, connect with others, and find strength in community.
Additional Support
Through flexible funding, we provide grocery gift cards, emergency relocation assistance, and other essential resources to reduce barriers to healing.
