Celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week – April 2026

Trauma Recovery/HAP celebrated Volunteer Appreciation Week in April by recognizing the incredible volunteers who make our mission possible. With a network of more than 1,800 volunteers worldwide, it’s the dedication of our volunteers that allows us to continue to expand access to EMDR therapy and trauma informed care for communities around the globe.

Throughout volunteer week, which took place April 19 – 25, 2026, we highlighted volunteers serving in a variety of roles, from newer members of our volunteer faculty to long-time leaders whose service spans more than a decade. Their compassion, expertise, and commitment create a lasting impact for individuals, families, and communities affected by trauma.

Volunteers Share Their Reason Why

Bernadette Talia, HAP Senior Trainer, shared, “I volunteer with HAP to provide EMDR to organizations serving indigent clients, ensuring that essential mental health support is accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it. This work promotes healing and resilience within underserved communities, while also allowing me to make a meaningful impact by fostering connection and empowerment.”

Kelly Hurley, HAP Senior Facilitator, shared, “I love volunteering with EMDR-HAP because I get to support clinicians who are stepping into this powerful work for the first time, especially those serving communities with the greatest need. It’s incredibly meaningful to help strengthen their confidence and skills so they can bring healing to individuals impacted by complex trauma.”

Nikki Yardy, HAP Facilitator, shared, “I volunteer as a facilitator with HAP because I’ve seen over and over again how EMDR can change lives and it’s important to me to increase access to this valuable training for therapists. Both personally and with my clients and consultees over the years, I’ve seen how untangling the impacts of the past can create more psychological health and stability in the present.”

Amber McKinney-Morgan, HAP Facilitator, shared, “I volunteer for HAP because I’m passionate about increasing access to EMDR, just as access was created for me. In addition, I am surrounded by a supportive, compassionate community of EMDR HAP volunteers that feels like (clinical) family.”

A Heartfelt Thank You

While we can’t truly thank our volunteers enough, as a token of appreciation, all volunteers received complimentary access to select on-demand courses. Volunteers who have not yet redeemed their course code are encouraged to do so by June 30, 2026 (code expiration date). If you need the course code resent, please reach out to volunteer@emdrhap.org. Courses must be completed by December 31, 2026.

To every volunteer who gives their time and heart to this work: THANK YOU