FREDONIA, NY – The 2026 Hope & Healing Conference of Western New York brought together advocates, professionals, individuals with lived experience, families, and community members for two inspiring days focused on connection, learning, and hope.
On Friday, June 5, 2026 more than 175 attendees participated in Day One, joining us for powerful keynote presentations, breakout sessions, resource sharing, and meaningful conversations centered around the power of story. One of the most memorable aspects of the day was the series of Hope Talks, which offered moving and inspiring personal perspectives that resonated deeply with attendees and reinforced the importance of hope, resilience, and recovery.
This year also marked an exciting milestone as the conference welcomed an attendee from Algeria, extending the reach of Hope & Healing beyond Western New York and highlighting the universal importance of mental health, recovery, and community connection.
A standout highlight of Day Two, which was held Saturday, June 6, 2026, was the Family & Community Day, Camp Hope: Where Stories Grow, was a unique and engaging discussion facilitated by Joseph Green, where youth, families, community leaders, and attendees gathered together in a large circle to share perspectives, ask questions, and learn from one another. The conversation was interactive, honest, and thought-provoking, creating meaningful connections across generations and experiences. The energy and participation throughout the discussion demonstrated the value of bringing diverse voices together and laid a strong foundation for continuing to grow the conference's two-day format in the years ahead.
As we reflect on this year's success, we are already looking ahead to building upon the momentum of Hope & Healing 2026 and strengthening the experience for next year's event. Your feedback will help guide that process.
If you attended the conference, please watch for a post-event survey, as well as information regarding solidifying CEUs, CTLEs, CASAC credits, CPP, and CPS certificates.
Thank you for being part of Hope & Healing 2026 and for helping create a community where stories inspire understanding, connection, and hope. We look forward to continuing this journey together in 2027. To learn more, visit: hopeandhealingconference.com.
