Over 8 weeks, the Starlings Peer Empowerment Mentorship (PEM) Program brings together people with lived experience of a parent’s substance use to explore how stress and stigma have shaped our stories, in our own unique ways.
Through a mix of peer connection, education, and creative expression, you'll unpack your experience and begin to rebuild your relationship with your story.
What participants have said:
FAQs about the Peer Empowerment Mentorship Program
Who is this program for?
This program is for anyone 16 and up who has grown up with the stress, silence, or stigma of a parent’s substance use, particularly those who have lived experience and:
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Are just starting to make sense of their experiences but want to dive in more
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Want to become a peer supporter
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Are deep into your healing journey and want to lead initiatives
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Or anywhere in between
Whether you've never talked about it before or have shared your story many times, this space is for you. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences show up in our lives, and how being in community with peers who get it can offer connection, safety, and a new way forward.
Cost: Free*
We have 8 spots available to offer free participant for our program valued at over $1,000 per person, made accessible through community funding and partnerships.
What Can I Expect From the Program?
Over 8 weeks, the Starlings Peer Empowerment Mentorship (PEM) Program brings together people with lived experience of a parent’s substance use to explore how stress and stigma have shaped our stories, in our own unique ways.
Through a mix of peer connection, education, and creative expression, you'll unpack your experience and begin to rebuild your relationship with your story.
Together, we’ll:
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Learn about how stress and stigma show up on our relationships
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Reflect on identity, meaning-making, and dreaming in the context of substance use stigma
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Learn how to write, draw, or share our stories through zines, comics, and more
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Share in ways that feel safe and empowering
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Connect with guest speakers and peers who get it
Whether you share your story only within the group, or use it to lead change in your family, community, or society, your voice matters here.
What You'll Gain?
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You gain connection to a peer community
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Understanding of stigma and its effects on you and your families
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Confidence and tools to reflect and share your story
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Peer mentorship
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A certificate of completion at the end
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Ongoing community support
Check out all peer support sessions and book one below
