Parent Empowerment Peer (PEP) Project

The Parent Empowerment Peer (PEP) Project is a pioneering, statewide initiative addressing the urgent need for emotional and practical support for families involved with the child welfare and well-being systems in Kansas.

Our Mission

By centering lived experience, this project aims to transform both families’ experiences and the systems themselves.

At its core, this project trains Parent Empowerment Peer Specialists (PEPS)—caregivers with lived experience—to serve as trusted allies and mentors alongside caregivers navigating these often-complex systems while helping caregivers navigate services and foster self-advocacy. PEPS foster trust, hope, and motivation for change.

Purpose & Vision

Empower caregivers and provide emotional support that helps families heal
Help caregivers build trust and confidence in their abilities navigating systems
Equip families with advocacy skills and mentorship that help them make meaningful, positive changes, leading toward safe, sustainable family reintegration.

The PEPS Role

Emotional & Empowering Support

PEPS brings compassionate, nonjudgmental, and trauma-informed support that acknowledges families’ pain and distrust of the system.
They foster trust, motivation, and hope, helping families see that change is possible and that they are not alone in their journey.
PEPS serve as relatable mentors—someone who has “been there”—to encourage and guide families through moments of fear, frustration, or despair.

System Awareness & Advocacy

PEPS help families find resources to be aware of supports within the child welfare, legal, and support systems, step by step.
They provide emotional support and empowerment as families prepare for court hearings, meetings, and service planning, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected.

Skill-Building & Resource Connection

PEPS encourages advocacy and parenting skills, facilitates support groups, and connects families to essential resources, including housing, education, and trauma recovery services.

Data Informed Decision-Making

PEPS contribute to systemic change by collecting and sharing data on family needs and outcomes, demonstrating the efficacy of peer support, and advocating for improvements at the state level.

Goals of the PEP Project
Activity	Impact
Emotional Support & Trust-Building	Families feel understood, empowered, and hopeful about change.
Support Groups	Safe spaces where families can share experiences, learn valuable skills, and support one another.
Direct Advocacy	Families are accompanied and supported in navigating hearings, meetings, and services.
Workshops & Resources	Families and providers gain tools and knowledge to improve outcomes.
Outreach & Awareness	Families learn about available support through community outreach and digital platforms.
Data & Evaluation	Demonstrates the value of peer support in improving and sustaining the program.

Why This Matters

Families who have navigated challenging or complex experiences with child welfare and related systems often benefit deeply from having a PEP mentor who believes in their strengths and understands their journey.

This project recognizes that fostering emotional healing and building trusting relationships are foundational to supporting families as they engage, grow, and work toward successful reunification.

Contact & More Information

For more about the PEP Project, training opportunities, or how to participate:
📧 Email: [Your contact here]
🌐 Website: [Your website here]
📞 Phone:

By centering lived experience, this project aims to transform both families’ experiences and the systems themselves.