Virginia’s Year of the Peer (YOTP) initiative has ignited a statewide movement focused on empowering Peer Recovery Specialists and enhancing the recovery system for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges.
With its mission to celebrate recovery champions and foster collaboration between clinicians, community partners, and peers, the YOTP initiative is propelling Virginia toward a more inclusive and supportive recovery-oriented system.
As part of this initiative, numerous events are being organized across the state, designed to unite peers, enhance professional development, and raise awareness about the importance of peer recovery support.
These events offer opportunities for networking, learning, and contributing to the shared vision of creating a more integrated and compassionate recovery community.
Here are some of the upcoming events that will take place in Virginia, aimed at advancing the goals of YOTP and continuing to build bridges of understanding between the various stakeholders in the recovery ecosystem.
1. Virginia Recovery Conference 2025
- Date: August 27, 2025
- Time: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Location: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
- Overview:
The Virginia Recovery Conference is a premier event that gathers professionals, Peer Recovery Specialists, and individuals in recovery for a day of inspiration and learning. The conference focuses on the theme of celebration and collaboration within the recovery community. Attendees can expect a variety of workshops, presentations, and networking sessions designed to empower Peer Recovery Specialists and improve recovery systems across the state. The conference provides a platform for participants to share insights, resources, and strategies to strengthen Virginia’s recovery ecosystem.
With topics ranging from clinical collaboration to peer-led recovery, this conference will be a valuable resource for anyone looking to contribute to a more unified and supportive recovery system in Virginia.
The conference aims to foster dialogue, encourage innovation, and create lasting connections among participants.
2. Region 3 Peer Conference – Roanoke
- Dates: July 8–10, 2025
- Location: Christiansburg, VA
- Overview:
The Region 3 Peer Conference is an essential event for individuals working in peer recovery support in the Roanoke area and beyond. This regional conference focuses on peer support best practices, community engagement, and strategies for addressing the challenges faced by those in recovery. The event brings together professionals, Peer Recovery Specialists, and community leaders to discuss critical issues related to substance use recovery, mental health, and community-based support systems.
Participants will have the chance to attend hands-on workshops, hear from experienced peers, and build connections that will enhance their work in the field. By attending the Region 3 Peer Conference, Peer Recovery Specialists can deepen their expertise and expand their network within the recovery community.
The conference also highlights the importance of regional collaboration and the need to share resources, tools, and knowledge to improve outcomes for individuals in recovery.
3. NAMI Peer-to-Peer (Online Program)
- Dates: July 8 – September 2, 2025 (Tuesdays, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- Location: Online (Zoom)
- Overview:
The NAMI Peer-to-Peer program is a valuable resource for individuals living with mental health conditions. This free 8-session educational program is taught by NAMI-trained volunteers who have lived experience with mental health challenges. Designed for adults, the program focuses on providing knowledge and support to individuals on their recovery journey. The online format makes this program accessible to anyone in Virginia, regardless of location, and offers a safe and supportive environment for participants to learn from one another.
The NAMI Peer-to-Peer program will help individuals better understand their mental health condition, learn coping strategies, and gain valuable skills for managing their recovery. It also empowers participants to become leaders in the recovery community, offering them tools to advocate for themselves and others.
4. NAMI Virginia 2025 Mental Health Conference & Youth and Family Summit
- Date: September 25, 2025, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Location: Hilton Richmond Short Pump Hotel & Spa, Richmond, VA
- Overview:
The NAMI Virginia Mental Health Conference & Youth and Family Summit is a state-level event that will bring together mental health professionals, family members, individuals with lived experience, and community advocates to discuss mental health wellness. This conference will feature a series of workshops and keynote speakers focused on building mental health awareness, addressing the stigma surrounding mental illness, and providing support for families and youth affected by mental health challenges.
The event will also explore the critical role of Peer Recovery Specialists in supporting individuals with mental health conditions and substance use challenges.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions about best practices in recovery support and mental health care, as well as learn about innovative programs and services being offered throughout Virginia.
This conference serves as an essential platform for advancing the integration of peer support in Virginia’s mental health system.
A Statewide Effort Toward Collaboration and Empowerment
These upcoming events reflect the broader mission of Virginia’s Year of The Peer initiative, which strives to create an integrated, recovery-oriented system of care in the state.
By bringing together a diverse group of professionals, Peer Recovery Specialists, and individuals in recovery, these events help build stronger connections, share knowledge, and ensure that every individual has access to the tools and support they need to succeed in their recovery journey.
Each event provides a unique opportunity for personal growth, professional development, and networking.
Whether attending the Virginia Recovery Conference, the NAMI Peer-to-Peer online program, or the Region 3 Peer Conference, participants will leave these events with valuable insights, renewed motivation, and a stronger sense of community.
As Virginia continues to prioritize recovery, these events stand as a testament to the state’s commitment to empowering individuals in recovery, fostering collaboration, and creating lasting change in the mental health and substance use support systems.
By attending these events, individuals can play an active role in shaping a more compassionate and supportive recovery system for Virginia’s future.
