Meet Lauren McKenzie

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren McKenzie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind The Thriving Initiative’s success and brand is our authenticity. Our nonprofit was founded solely to support college-based survivors of interpersonal violence, and that is what we have continued to do over the past 7 years. College students oftentimes have a distrust of the university when it comes to handling issues revolving around interpersonal violence and sexual assault, so we operate as an outside organization that provides full confidentiality. Our involvement on campus is “for the students, by the students”, with our college-based volunteers having a large part in sharing what is needed on campus so that we can help support them. We run events, share resources, and offer a free 7-week healing series where students can explore various healing practices without discussing past traumas. Being able to make a difference, no matter the size, is the main benchmark of success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Honestly, I did not expect to end up where I am today. Many people who work in this field never expect to be here, but it has been incredibly empowering. I was very shy and introverted for quite a while, especially when I started my undergraduate studies at UCSB. However, I found a supportive group of people and The Thriving Initiative (TTI), and began to enjoy leadership positions. I volunteered in a few roles with TTI, worked on a now-published research paper, held a job in ABA, and am now working staff at The Thriving Initiative and attending PLNU for my Master’s. I’ve learned that when you genuinely believe in the cause you are working for, the connections you make with the right people come easily. Sincerity and authentic connections go a long way, especially within this line of work.

I’d say what sets this line of work apart from the rest is our approach to trauma. We act as a supplemental resource to therapy, emphasizing the importance of community and free resources to explore different healing modalities. Students can try out 7+ different healing modalities, led by San Diego therapists/community providers, completely for free. This provides them with a solid foundation of support and the space to discover how they heal best (e.g., yoga, meditation, somatic healing, etc.). I’ve learned how important it is to provide a space to heal from trauma at any point during a person’s journey, relying on a community where you don’t have to discuss your experiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, there are so many options! I would definitely start in Ocean Beach with an acai bowl from Cafe Bella, then sit at Sunset Cliffs Beach. Favorite lunch options include Ortiz’s Taco Shop, Tajima Ramen, City Tacos, or Chicken Over Rice. The absolute must-go is Finjan Coffee Shop in Mission Valley, with the Knafeh Cold Foam Matcha. For places to go, I would take them to Birch Aquarium, Liberty Station, La Jolla Cove, and the Lowtide Market in PB. The best thing about San Diego is that each part of SD is unique, offering a wide range of experiences. Try walking outside your door for about 30 minutes, and you are bound to find an interesting place or cafe!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to Lauren Roberts, the Executive Director & Founder of The Thriving Initiative! With her mentorship and confidence in me, I have been able to develop skills and follow a professional development path that I would not have otherwise found. Her continuous support has provided me with incredible opportunities and inspired me to pursue a career of helping others. Her kindness and leadership are unlike any other, and I am proud to work with her and with such an amazing organization that has helped so many survivors.

Website: https://www.thethrivinginitiative.org

Instagram: @thrivingsdsu