Tree of Life logoJULIE BANGSNURSING • WRITING • ADVOCACY • A BRAVER TOMORROW

CHILDREN FAMILIES HEALING

Braver Together

Stronger children. Healthier families.

A girl and her animal companions reading together beneath a tree

A trauma-informed vision helping children understand big feelings, build resilience, and discover that hope lives here.

Understand Big Feelings

Gentle tools for naming emotions and finding calm.

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Grow Brave Together

Stories, companions, and skills that nurture resilience.

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Support Children & Families

Trauma-informed resources for safer, brighter tomorrows.

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Tree of Life

Hope Lives Here.

Braver Together brings emotional learning, compassionate support, animals, and nature into one welcoming vision for children and the people who care for them.

Meet the Companions

Five different personalities. One shared purpose: helping children feel supported, connected, and brave.

Jaxon, Braver Together companionJaxonYour loyal encouragerMeet JaxonClose introduction

Loving, comforting, and always in your corner.

Jaxon is a golden cocker spaniel with blue eyes and an adventurous spirit. He loves people just the way they are and reminds children that their feelings matter.

At Braver Together

Offers companionship, encourages calming and grounding, and celebrates small steps toward confidence.

“You’re stronger than you think, and I’m always in your corner.”
Chiefie, Braver Together companionChiefieThe gentle giantMeet ChiefieClose introduction

Strong, steady, patient, and kind.

Chiefie is a golden Gypsy Vanner with a long dark mane and white feathering at his hooves. His calm presence reminds children that strength and gentleness belong together.

At Braver Together

Encourages courage, connection, and trust while helping children take the next small step with big feelings.

“Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s taking the next small step anyway.”
KiKi, Braver Together companionKiKiA little peaceMeet KiKiClose introduction

Calm, cozy, curious, and reassuring.

KiKi is a long-haired tabby with green-gold eyes and a fluffy white chest. Whether resting nearby or exploring the meadow, she brings quiet companionship.

At Braver Together

Invites children to slow down, breathe, take a break, and notice the good in small moments.

“It’s okay to take a break. A calmer you is a stronger you.”
Jay, Braver Together companionJayA new perspectiveMeet JayClose introduction

Bright, curious, observant, and brave.

Jay is a blue jay with brilliant blue feathers and distinctive black and white markings. His curious spirit invites children to explore new possibilities.

At Braver Together

Encourages curiosity, using your voice, and seeing challenges from a different perspective.

“A new perspective can change everything.”
Nanny Ruth, Braver Together companionNanny RuthA warm, wise friendMeet Nanny RuthClose introduction

Creative, playful, encouraging, and hopeful.

Nanny Ruth is a kind listener who loves nature, storytelling, baking, and creating. She believes that every child matters and that small steps make a difference.

At Braver Together

Offers a welcoming, supportive presence and encourages kindness, creativity, and finding the bright side—even on hard days.

“You are braver than you know, and the world is brighter because you’re in it.”