Enjoy FREE pizza and learn how to become a peer advocate!!
These relaxed, in-person gatherings are designed to support you by offering time to:
Ask questions
Work through login or technical challenges
Get support with Level 1 training modules
Connect with other participants
Talk about your goals and how you want to use peer advocacy in your life and career
Simply bring yourself, any questions you have, and (once available) your login information. My goal is to make this process as smooth, supportive, and empowering as possible so you can complete each level, receive your stipends, and earn your credentials at no cost.
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Becoming a Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) or Family Peer Advocate (FPA) is a powerful way to use your lived experience to support and empower others. Through this program, you gain valuable skills, connect with a supportive peer network, and make a meaningful impact in your community.
Youth Peer Advocates:
Are between 18–30 years old
Hold at least a high school diploma, GED, or state equivalency
Have lived experience with emotional/mental health challenges, behavioral challenges, and/or co-occurring disorders with onset before age 21
Have firsthand experience navigating child-serving systems of care (e.g., mental health services, special education, child welfare, addiction services, juvenile justice, developmental disability services)
Are willing to share relevant aspects of their lived experience to support other youth facing similar challenges
Family Peer Advocates:
Are at least 18 years of age
Hold at least a high school diploma, GED, or state equivalency
Have experience as a parent (biological, adoptive, foster) or primary caregiver of a child/youth with significant social, emotional, developmental, medical, substance use, and/or behavioral needs with onset prior to age 21
Have experience navigating child-serving systems of care on behalf of their child/youth (e.g., Early Intervention, mental health services, special education, child welfare, addiction services, juvenile justice, developmental disability services)
Are willing to share relevant aspects of their lived experience to support other families facing similar challenges