In systems that serve families and children, those with lived experience expertise (LEx) bring invaluable insights, perspectives, and knowledge that can transform how services and support are delivered. However, engaging with lived experts effectively requires understanding the unique power dynamics, challenges, and opportunities that come with such interactions.
The Colorado Partnership for Thriving Families’ Family and Caregiver Space has designed a new, free, Lunch & Learn webinar series specifically focused on helping professionals, caregivers, and organizations engage with LEx in meaningful and empowering ways.
During the next three webinars of 2025, participants will delve into the complexities of engaging with those who have lived experience, uncovering barriers to meaningful involvement, and learning how to build authentic, trusting relationships. Each session is co-facilitated by three LEx from the Family and Caregiver space. This curriculum offers a hands-on approach with a mix of reading materials, activities, and group discussions.
Check out the first webinar of 2025, which was an introduction to Lived Experience
June 2025: Understanding Power Dynamics in System Change
The June Lunch & Learn will focus on understanding the power dynamics at play when working with lived experience experts. The central objective is to help participants learn how power imbalances impact those with lived experience in systems, and how these dynamics can create barriers to meaningful involvement.
A major activity in this month will be a power mapping exercise, where participants will identify and discuss the various power players within their systems. Participants will also break into small groups to discuss how power is maintained in their respective work settings—whether in nonprofits, county/state partners, or other organizations.
September 2025: Authentic Involvement: More than Consultation
The September Lunch & Learn will shift focus to the concept of authentic involvement. Too often, systems engage with individuals with lived experience only in tokenistic or extractive ways. The curriculum seeks to define and explore the difference between consultation and true co-production, which involves working together as equals in decision-making processes.
Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on what authentic involvement looks like in practice and how it differs from tokenism or extractive practices. The activities for this month include a group exercise to explore the differences between “consulting” and “co-creation.” Participants will analyze case studies to identify both successful and unsuccessful attempts at authentic involvement in various contexts.
December 2025: Building Trust and Relationships with Lived Experts
In the final Lunch & Learn of 2025, the group will dive into building trust and fostering meaningful, empowering relationships with people who have lived experience. This session will be about creating spaces where individuals feel safe, valued, and capable of sharing their experiences without fear of judgment or exclusion.
The focus here is on how trust plays a critical role in working effectively with people with lived experience. Activities for this month will include role-playing scenarios that focus on relationship-building, allowing participants to practice skills in a supportive environment. Group discussions will revolve around strategies for creating environments where people with lived experience feel empowered, respected, and heard
This new curriculum from the Family and Caregiver Space provides an essential learning experience for anyone looking to engage with people with lived experience in a way that is respectful and empowering. Whether you’re working in a nonprofit, a county or state partner, or another related field, these sessions will equip you with the tools and knowledge to create positive, meaningful change in your interactions with lived experts.
Don’t worry– this series will not end in December. Stay tuned for details on Lunch & Learns in 2026!
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