In recognition of the Week of the Young Child, on Tues. April 24 Branford Early Childhood Collaborative (BECC) brings the community a free screening of "Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope." The award-winning documentary delves into the science of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – such as abuse, trauma, neglect – and the "toxic stress" induced that can shorten lives through violence, addiction and disease.

The film also discusses new and emerging treatment and prevention efforts that could help improve and extend lives. Prevention, treatment and awareness can assist children at risk due to being exposed to traumatic experiences including divorce, isolation or neglect, hostility, alcohol abuse and drug abuse, mental disorders and physical abuse, among others.

Non-profit BECC encourages parents, teachers, social workers, public health professionals and community workers to attend the screening and community conversation on April 24. BECC's free screening of "Resilience" takes place Tuesday, April 24, 6 – 8 p.m. at Branford Fire Department, 45 North Main St.  BECC offers the screening with support from Branford Community Foundation, Clifford Beers Clinic and the film's documentary company KPJR Films.

The goal of the event is to help create a "trauma-informed community" that can help children develop resiliency to overcome adversity, according to BECC Executive Director Robin Comey.

BECC is also encouraging residents to post on social media either written or videotaped stories about overcoming a challenge in their lives or recognizing someone who played a role in helping them through difficult childhood experiences, using the hashtag #IAMRESILIENT 

For more information on the screening or to RSVP, visit www.Branfordbecc.org or email branford.becc@gmail.com