FANS BASIC
2025-03-11 10:00 - 2025-03-12 15:30 (America/New_York)
The Family Needs & Strengths (FANS) assessment and outcome tool for Family Peer Support is derived from the Child Needs & Strengths (CANS), developed by Dr. John Lyons. Seeing the need for a Family Peer Support Services assessment and outcome tool was developed in partnership with New York State Western Region Family Peer Support Services Program Directors, Dr. Lyons, and strongly encouraged and endorsed by New York State Office of Mental Health.
Participants must complete the following:

Full Training Schedule along with homework
Must participate in-person (virtually) for full training schedule to be able to take the test and use the tool effectively!
As this is an interactive participatory training, please have your camera on all the time.
We offer TA monthly calls to support you and the use of the tool with parents/caregivers.
Please plan on attending at least the first TA call after taking FANS Basic.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with link to join the meeting.
Click here to register
Click here to learn more.

FPA Supervisor Experience Cafe
2025-03-11 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-05-13 11:00 - 12:00
FPA Supervisor Experience Cafe
Occurs bi-monthly on the second
Tuesday from11:00AM-12:00PM
New open forum for FPA supervisors
to discuss the challenges and
successes of supervising family peer
advocates and to support role clarity
Register Here

Youth Peers Meeting
2025-03-13 15:00 - 16:00
YPM is a monthly statewide meeting for students and youth, Youth Peer Advocates (YPA), Certified Recovery Peer Advocates (CRPA), and others in similar peer-based roles (ages 12-30) to connect and have an open discussion to share tools and strategies, advocacy, and workforce development.
Occurs monthly on the second Wednesday from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
REGISTER HERE

Building Confidence in Youth: The Role of Youth Peer Advocates
2025-03-18 12:00 - 13:00
Building Confidence in Youth: The Role of Youth Peer Advocates

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Click Here to Register!

Or use this link: bit.ly/3F18Ydp

This webinar is designed to equip Youth Peer Advocates to support youth in building self-confidence. As a YPA, you play an important role because you are viewed as a credible messenger and an example of resilience by the youth you serve. Self-confidence is essential in order for youth to develop into successful adults, as this helps them better relate to peers, perform better academically, and make informed, safer decisions. Join us as we explore the many facets of confidence and how it can be pivotal to your work with young people and as a YPA. In this webinar, we will address the importance of self-confidence, challenges to one’s self-confidence, and practical tips to use when working with youth. Come discover the tools to build confidence and learn ways to apply these tips to your own life!

YPA Monthly TA Trainings
2025-03-20 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-04-17 11:30 - 13:00
YPA Monthly TA Trainings
Occurs monthly on the third
Thursday from 11:30am – 1:00pm
Dynamic presentations from trusted experts on popular topics to educate
and strengthen the youth peer advocate workforce and earn continuing education!
Register Here

FPA Monthly TA Training
2025-03-21 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-04-18 10:00 - 11:30
FPA Monthly TA Trainings
Occurs monthly on the third
Friday from10:00AM-11:30AM
Dynamic presentations from trusted
experts on popular topics to educate
and strengthen the workforce!
Register Here

Discharge Planning for Family Peer Advocates
2025-03-25 14:00 - 15:30
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Click Here to Register!

Or use this link: bit.ly/41fq9iX

The purpose of this webinar is to provide Family Peer Advocates (FPAs) with the skills needed to prepare a family for discharge from their services. After this webinar, FPAs will be able to identify when the family possesses the necessary strengths to effectively advocate for their child and family as they prepare for discharge. FPAs will also understand ways to maintain the professional relationship through and after discharge. In addition, the webinar will cover discharge interventions and strategies for managing unplanned discharges. Finally, FPAs will gain insight into how to manage their own emotions when discharging a family.

FANS TA
2025-03-26 10:00 - 11:00
FANS Technical Assistance & Learning Community – 2025 Office Hours

Do you have questions about how to introduce the FANS?
Are there challenges engaging families in using the FANS tool?
Do you have questions on how to create goals and plans using the FANS?
Are you struggling with any part of FANS?
Do you need support?
Is it time for Recertification?

Please Join the FANS Technical Assistance Office Hours Learning Community.
Office Hours TBD each month via Zoom
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Register Here.
Questions: Susan Lewis SLewis@ftnys.org

FPA Lived Experience Cafe
2025-04-01 12:00 - 13:30
Lived Experience Cafe
Occurs bi-monthly on the first
Tuesday from12:00PM-1:30PM
New affinity space for credentialed
Family Peer Advocates to promote
collaboration, skills development,
inclusivity and belonging!
Register Here

Western Region Resource & Job Fair 2025
2025-04-07 11:00 - 15:00
Western Region Resource & Job Fair 2025
Take the First Step Towards Your Dream Career!
Join us at the Western Region Resource & Job Fair, presented by Families Together in NYS Youth Power! This exciting event brings together leading employers, peer support organizations, and youth-led initiatives to help you launch your career journey.
Date: Monday, April 7th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Buffalo Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY 14203
Why You Should Attend

Connect with Top Employers – Meet representatives from numerous organizations looking to hire motivated individuals like you
Professional Development – Attend valuable workshops designed to enhance your job-seeking skills
Free Professional Headshots – Look your best on LinkedIn and job applications with complimentary professional headshots
Resume Building – Get expert advice on creating a standout resume and cover letter
YPA Credential Information – Learn about the Youth Peer Advocate credential and how it can advance your career
Networking Opportunities – Build meaningful connections with professionals and peers in your field of interest
On-the-Spot Interviews – Come prepared for potential on-site interviews with employers

Featured Organizations
Connect with representatives from outstanding organizations including:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara & the Southern Tier
Mental Health Advocates
NY State Department of Civil Service
And many more youth-focused and peer support organizations!

Dress Code
Participants are encouraged to dress in casual professional attire for potential headshots and brief interviews. Business casual is recommended – you don’t need a formal suit, but present yourself professionally!
Workshops Schedule
Throughout the day, we’ll be offering valuable workshops to boost your job search:

Professional Headshots (ongoing all day)
Resume & Cover Letter Workshop
YPA Credential Information Session
Networking Skills
Interview Preparation

What to Bring

Several copies of your resume (if you have one)
A positive attitude and willingness to connect
Questions for potential employers
Government-issued ID
A notebook or digital device for taking notes

Amplifying Youth Voice and Peer Advocacy
This event is part of our commitment to empowering young people through meaningful employment opportunities and peer support networks. We believe in the power of youth-led initiatives to create positive change in our communities.

April Basic FANS
2025-04-08 10:00 - 2025-04-09 15:30

YPA Supervisor Experience Cafe
2025-04-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-05-08 11:00 - 12:00
YPA Supervisor Experience Cafe
Occurs bi-monthly on the second
Tuesday from11:00AM-12:00PM
New open forum for YPA supervisors
to discuss the challenges and
successes of supervising youth peer
advocates and to support role clarity!
Register Here

Western Region Job Fair
2025-04-10 11:00 - 15:00
Resource and Job fair – Western New York

Take the first step towards your dream career—explore job opportunities and connect with top employers at our Job Fair.
Why attend?

Explore exciting job opportunities with leading organizations.
Connect with professionals and build your network
Professional headshots.

Date: Thursday, April 10th, 2025
Location: Buffalo Central Library – 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo NY 14203
Time: 11am-3pm

View Flyer Here
Register Here

Youth Peers Meeting
2025-04-10 15:00 - 16:00
Youth Peer Meetings
Occurs monthly on the second Thursday from 3:00pm- 4:00pm
YPM is a monthly statewide meeting for students and youth, Youth Peer Advocates (YPA), Certified Recovery Peer Advocates (CRPA), and others in similar peer-based roles (ages 12-30) to connect and have an open discussion to share tools and strategies, advocacy, and workforce development.
Register Here

Central Region Virtual Resource & Job Fair 2025
2025-04-11 11:00 - 14:00
Central Region Virtual Resource & Job Fair 2025
Your Dream Career is Just a Click Away!
Join us online for the Central Region Virtual Resource & Job Fair, hosted by Families Together in NYS Youth Power! This convenient virtual event connects young job seekers with outstanding employers and resources—all from the comfort of your own space.
Date: Friday, April 11th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Fully Virtual Event
Target Audience: Youth ages 18-30
Why Attend Our Virtual Job Fair?

Convenient Access – Connect with employers without travel or transportation barriers
Diverse Opportunities – Explore exciting job openings with leading organizations across the Central Region
Professional Networking – Build valuable connections with industry professionals in a virtual environment
Interactive Experience – Engage directly through video chats, messaging, and virtual booths
Resource Hub – Access career resources, training opportunities, and support services all in one place
Privacy and Comfort – Interview from your personal space where you feel most confident

Featured Participating Organizations
Connect with representatives from outstanding employers including:

New York State Commission for the Blind
Can Code Communities
Children’s Home
Access to Independence of Cortland County, Inc.
Kelberman Center
Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency
And many more organizations committed to youth employment!

How to Prepare

Professional Presentation – Even in a virtual setting, participants are encouraged to dress professionally
Technology Check – Ensure your device, camera, and microphone are working properly before the event
Resume Ready – Have your digital resume prepared for easy sharing
Questions Prepared – Research participating organizations and prepare thoughtful questions
Quiet Space – Find a quiet location with minimal background distractions
Strong Internet Connection – Test your connection in advance to ensure smooth participation

Virtual Platform Features
Our user-friendly virtual platform offers:

Private video interview rooms
Digital resume submission
Live chat with employers
Resource downloads
Informational webinars
Technical support throughout the event

Registration Information
Registration is free but required to access the virtual platform.

Technical Requirements

Computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera and microphone
Stable internet connection
Web browser (Chrome or Firefox recommended)
Headphones (recommended for better audio quality)

Amplifying Youth Voice and Peer Advocacy
This virtual job fair is part of our commitment to removing barriers and creating accessible employment opportunities for young people across the Central Region. We believe in the power of youth-led initiatives to create positive change in our communities.
For more information, contact us at:

Website: www.FTNYS.org/YouthPower
Twitter/X: @YouthPower
Address: 737 Madison Avenue, Albany NY 12208
Phone: 518-432-0333

Youth Leadership & Job Fair - Capital Region
2025-04-15 16:00 - 19:00 | Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210
Youth Leadership & Job Fair – Capital Region
Jumpstart Your Future: Jobs, Skills & Connections!
Join us for an exciting evening of opportunity at the Capital Region Youth Leadership & Job Fair, presented by Families Together in NYS Youth Power! This event brings together employers, resources, and young adults looking to build meaningful careers.
Date: Tuesday, April 15th, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210
For: Young adults and peers ages 16-29
What to Expect

Job Opportunities ✓ – Connect with employers from across the Capital Region who are actively hiring
Resources ✓ – Access valuable information on training programs, education options, and career development
Food & Giveaways ✓ – Enjoy refreshments and take home useful items to support your career journey
Leadership Development – Discover opportunities to grow your leadership skills and make an impact in your community

Perfect For You If You’re:

Looking for part-time or full-time employment
Exploring different career paths
Interested in developing leadership skills
Seeking resources for professional development
A young adult or peer between 16-29 years old
Ready to connect with supportive employers and organizations

Why This Job Fair Stands Out

Youth-Centered Approach – This event is specifically designed for young adults and peers
Evening Hours – Convenient after-school and work timing makes it accessible
Welcoming Environment – Inclusive space where all young people can feel comfortable
Direct Connections – Meet hiring managers and decision-makers face-to-face
Immediate Opportunities – Some employers may conduct on-the-spot interviews
Youth Voice Focus – Created with input from young adults to address your actual needs

Participating Employers
A diverse range of employers from the Capital Region will be present, representing industries such as:

Healthcare and human services
Retail and customer service
Technology and IT
Government agencies
Non-profit organizations
Hospitality and food service
And many more!

Preparation Tips

Bring several copies of your resume (we’ll have a printing station if needed!)
Dress professionally or business casual
Research participating organizations beforehand
Prepare a brief introduction about yourself
Have questions ready for potential employers
Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes

Registration Information
Registration is encouraged but not required. Registering in advance helps us prepare and may give you priority access to certain employers.

For more information or questions, please contact:

Email: crivera@ftnys.org
Organized by: Families Together in NYS Youth Power and Youth Voices Matter NY

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore growth and employment opportunities in a supportive environment!

CTAC EVENT - Considerations for Youth with Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Diagnoses
2025-04-23 13:00 - 14:30
Location: Zoom
Children and youth with mental health conditions can present with co-occurring intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) that often go underexplored and unaddressed. Promotion of the overall wellbeing of youth and their mental health must include systematic considerations of co-occurring intellectual and developmental disabilities. This presentation will provide an overview of co-occurring mental health conditions in children and youth.
By the end of the presentation, attendees should be able to:

Discuss specific symptom presentations of intellectual and developmental disabilities
Identify both mental health and intellectual and developmental disabilities risk and protective factors; and
Understand considerations and adaptations for assessment and intervention for co-occurring conditions.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

FANS TA
2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:00
FANS TA

April 30 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am

FANS Technical Assistance & Learning Community – 2025 Office Hours

Do you have questions about how to introduce the FANS?
Are there challenges engaging families in using the FANS tool?
Do you have questions on how to create goals and plans using the FANS?
Are you struggling with any part of FANS?
Do you need support?
Is it time for Recertification?

Please Join the FANS Technical Assistance Office Hours Learning Community.
Office Hours TBD each month via Zoom
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Register Here.
Questions: Susan Lewis SLewis@ftnys.org

CTAC Event - Code of Ethics Training for Youth Peer Advocates
2025-05-01 12:00 - 13:30
Location: Zoom
The Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) Code of Ethics establishes clear standards of conduct, facilitates ethical decision making and fosters accountability. The objective of this workshop is to explore the YPA Code of Ethics to support YPAs in meeting the highest standards of ethical practice. Together, we will consider the ethical and professional principles that guides the work of YPAs. In this webinar, we will examine policies, procedures and best practices for the Youth Peer Advocate workforce. YPAs will be equipped with the knowledge to uphold the Code of Ethics, thereby fostering an environment of integrity and ethical conduct in their work with youth and families.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

2026 Annual Conference
2025-05-03 - 2025-05-04 | Marriot Hotel, 189 Wolf Rd, Albany, NY, 12205, United States
Save the Date!2026 Annual ConferenceBuilding Strong Roots for Success
📅 May 3rd & 4th, 2026📍 189 Wolf Rd, Albany, NY⏰ 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (both days)
We are excited to welcome you to this year’s 2026 Annual Conference!Each session will highlight our commitment to a holistic approach to health and behavioral services—from empowering family peer support providers to advocating for community wellness.
As New York State’s family-run organization, Families Together in New York State (FTNYS) represents, supports, and advocates for the voices of youth and families in policy and systems change. Together, we strive for an equitable and inclusive journey that fosters belonging, wellness, and empowerment for all.
What to Expect:

Inspiring keynote speakers & workshops

Networking with family advocates, youth leaders, and professionals

Policy discussions amplifying family and youth voices

Resources, information, and training opportunities

We look forward to gathering with attendees, speakers, and supporters to make this year’s conference impactful and memorable.
Registration details coming soon!

2025 Annual Conference May
2025-05-04 08:00 - 2025-05-05 17:00
Join over 400 representatives from family peer support providers, family members, youth and professionals from the children’s behavioral health and other cross-system children’s services at this statewide event and stay abreast of the many challenges and opportunities facing children, youth and families as health and behavioral health services continues to move toward an integrated system of care.
We encourage New York State Family Peer Support Providers, Youth Peer Advocates, Health Plans, Health Homes, and other service providers to attend and receive pertinent education & information on services, collaborations and practices in our children’s health and behavioral health system.

Register Now

We’re pleased to offer special conference rates for attendees:
Marriott Albany: $114.00 USD per night
Reservation Deadline: Thursday, April 17, 2025
Secure your room at our discounted group rate.

Book Now

For more information, head to www.ftnys.org/news-events/annual-conference-2025.

YPA Monthly TA Training
2025-05-15 11:30 - 13:00
YPA Monthly TA Trainings
Occurs monthly on the third
Thursday from 11:30AM-1:00PM
Dynamic presentations from trusted
experts on popular topics to educate
and strengthen the workforce!
REGISTER HERE!

FPA Monthly TA Training
2025-05-16 10:00 - 11:30
Location: Zoom
Occurs monthly on the third Friday from 10:00AM-11:30AM
Trainings designed to meet the
education and professional
developments needs of Family Peer
Advocates. Active participation and
engagement with these trainings will
help FPAs obtain new skills and learn
with their colleagues across the
state. New topics offered monthly!
Topic suggestions welcomed!
REGISTER HERE!

MAY BASIC FANS May 20 & 21, 2025
2025-05-20 08:00 - 2025-05-21 17:00
The Family Needs & Strengths (FANS) assessment and outcome tool for Family Peer Support is derived from the Child Needs & Strengths (CANS), developed by Dr. John Lyons. Seeing the need for a Family Peer Support Services assessment and outcome tool was developed in partnership with New York State Western Region Family Peer Support Services Program Directors, Dr. Lyons, and strongly encouraged and endorsed by New York State Office of Mental Health.
Participants must complete the following:

Full Training Schedule along with homework
Must participate in-person (virtually) for full training schedule to be able to take the test and use the tool effectively!
As this is an interactive participatory training, please have your camera on all the time.
We offer TA monthly calls to support you and the use of the tool with parents/caregivers.
Please plan on attending at least the first TA call after taking FANS Basic.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with link to join the meeting.
Click here to register
Click here to learn more.

Add to calendar

Code of Ethics Training for Family Peer Advocates (FPAs)
2025-05-20 12:00 - 13:30
Location: Zoom
Family Peer Advocates (FPAs) provide invaluable support to families. One resource you have in guiding your work is the FPA Code of Ethics. These establish clear standards of conduct, facilitate ethical decision-making, and foster accountability among FPAs. This workshop will explore and enhance your understanding of the FPA Code of Ethics. Together, we will consider the ethical and professional principles of the FPA throughout the professional role. You will also understand how to approach colleagues regarding ethical concerns and dilemmas. This includes situations where there may be an ethical violation and you may have to file a complaint. The process for investigation, review and appeal will be reviewed. By the end of this offering, FPAs will be equipped with the knowledge to uphold the Code of Ethics thereby fostering an environment of integrity and ethical conduct for themselves and the families they support.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

Navigating Developmental Disability: Resources for Caregivers
2025-05-29 12:00 - 13:30
Location: Zoom
Family Peer Advocates provide support, resources, and information to families in the mental health system. One aspect of this work is helping families navigate complicated systems. Oftentimes, this involves working with caregivers or parents of children with co-occurring mental health conditions and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Caregivers new to navigating services for mental health and developmental disabilities often need assistance in identifying and accessing available resources. In this presentation, Family Peer Advocates will learn how to begin the process of accessing services within the intellectual and developmental disabilities system, understand the differences between these services and available mental health services, and alternative options if these services are not available. Attendees will hear first hand experiences from caregivers navigating these systems for their families.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
