CARDINAL (Compassionate Advocacy and Resilience Development Initiative for Action in Leadership) empowers advocates and nonprofit leaders to thrive through intentional support, trauma-informed practices, and connection. We believe sustainable advocacy starts with sustainable advocates. Our work centers healing, integrity, and a deep commitment to survivor-centered change.

We combine proven strategies with deep relational support:

• Peer Support: Confidential peer groups reduce isolation, build connection, and offer space to process the emotional toll of the work.

• 1:1 Coaching: Personalized sessions focus on boundaries, emotional regulation, role clarity, and burnout prevention.

• Modules & Live Trainings: Practical, trauma-informed content equips staff with sustainable tools for advocacy and leadership.

• Community Connection: Our CARDINAL Café and leadership forums offer statewide networking and real-time support.

All peer and training sessions are approved for CJCC credit hours.

• Approximately 50% of all victim advocates experience severe traumatic stress symptoms and high levels of compassion fatigue (Benuto et al., 2018)

• 47% meet criteria for clinical thresholds for PTSD symptoms (Slattery & Goodman, 2009)

• 60% of victim advocates leave within two years; only 12% remain in the field for more than seven years (Zippia, 2025)

• Chronic trauma exposure without sustained support predicts early exit from the field

But research also shows that:

• Peer support and reflective supervision enhance resilience and increase retention, particularly in high-stress professions like advocacy and healthcare.

• Coaching and wellness-based leadership significantly reduce emotional exhaustion and help prevent burnout.

• Training in emotional regulation and establishing healthy boundaries builds long-term effectiveness and supports sustained well-being in the workplace.
  

CARDINAL was built with these strategies at its core.

From Advocates:

“This is one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had.”
“I leave work on time at least 2–3 days a week now.”
“It helped me advocate for my own well-being.”
“I feel less alone, more supported, and more confident.”

From Directors:

“The CARDINAL Program has been an essential source of specialized support, offering peer-based care that truly understands the challenges of this work. Our team has found meaningful ways to improve their strength, resilience, and connection.” — Jamie Bormann, Executive Director, Crisis Line & Safe House (Macon, GA)

“If you’re trying to decide if this is worth it—the answer is YES! This helped me grow as a director and helped my advocates become better at what they do. It’s the support we didn’t know we needed.” — Lindsey Reis, Executive Director, Hope Harbour (Columbus, GA)

“The leadership training empowered our staff with renewed confidence, sharper communication skills, and a stronger sense of purpose.” — Caroline Wallis, Executive Director, F.A.I.T.H., Inc. (Rabun County, GA)

CARDINAL offers tailored pathways to support advocates, directors, and emerging leaders at every level of their professional journey. Each package provides a unique blend of confidential peer connection, individualized support, and learning opportunities that align with the realities of working in the domestic and sexual violence field.

Advocate Package
Designed for those working directly with survivors, this package centers on building resilience, navigating stress, and sustaining meaningful advocacy. Participants engage in ongoing, role-specific support and reflection, with practical tools to promote well-being and longevity in the work.

Director Package
This package provides executive-level support for directors navigating the complexities of leadership. Participants connect regularly with peers in similar roles, gain access to expert guidance, and explore strategies for leading with clarity, care, and sustainability in mind.

Emerging Leader Package
Ideal for new or rising leaders, this track builds foundational leadership confidence and skills. Through structured dialogue, mentorship, and real-world application, participants develop the tools needed to grow into thoughtful, capable, and values-driven leaders.

Need more support? Our a la carte options provide customized solutions:

• Individual Coaching & Support Sessions

• Board or Staff Retreat Facilitation

• Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Grant Writing & Funder Reporting

• Book Club Facilitation

• Policy Review & Development

• Financial Health Check

• Board Onboarding Training
  

Let us help you build a stronger, more sustainable organization from the inside out.

Enrollment is now open for the next CARDINAL year: October 2025 to September 2026. Space is limited to ensure high-quality coaching and group matching. For more information about program rates and to explore future availability, please reach out to Jennifer Thomas at jennifer@pinnaclelifecounseling.org to set up a meeting.