Woman having a video conference on her laptop, listening attentively in headphones, with her folded hands under her chin

Throughout this past spring and summer, the Colorado Partnership for Thriving Families has been hosting a free Lunch & Learn webinar series focused on a topic that matters to anyone working in systems serving families: how to meaningfully engage with lived experience experts.

This series started with the foundations—understanding what lived experience really is and why it matters. Previous sessions looked at power dynamics, authentic involvement versus performative consultation, building skills around trust and relationships, and how storytelling can shift narratives and influence system change.

Now, on September 11 from 12:00-1:00 pm, we’re bringing it all together with the final session: Collaborative Problem-Solving with Lived Experts.

What's Happening in Session 7

In this last Lunch & Learn, participants will move from learning to doing. You’ll build practical skills for working collaboratively with lived experts to co-create real solutions to complex system challenges. This session is hands-on—you’ll practice co-design approaches that center lived expertise, share decision-making power, and produce outcomes that are more effective and fairer for everyone involved.

All seven sessions have been co-facilitated by lived experience experts from the Family and Caregiver Space, bringing authentic voices and real-world insights to every conversation.

Who Should Attend

Whether you’re working in a nonprofit, a county or state partner, education, healthcare, or another related field—this series equips you with tools and knowledge to create positive, meaningful change in your interactions with lived experts. The final session is the perfect place to solidify what you’ve learned and walk away with concrete skills you can use immediately in your own communities.

A Note on What Comes Next

The series may be ending, but the work of centering lived experience doesn’t. The Colorado Partnership for Thriving Families remains committed to supporting professionals and organizations in creating systems that honor the expertise and voice of families. If you’re interested in ongoing engagement with this work, consider joining the Partnership.

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