The three-day program serves as a vital resource for children affected by family addiction, empowering them to break the multigenerational cycle.
West Palm Beach, Fla. (October 22, 2024) ─ Hanley Foundation and the National Association for Children of Addiction (NACoA) have partnered to launch Hanley’s Family Program for Children. The free, three-day program is specifically designed for children aged 7 to 12 with a family history of addiction. The multiday sessions will be available once a month, starting with the first session from Friday, November 15 to Sunday, November 17. This specially designed child-centered program aims to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for children to learn, heal, and develop resilience.
“Addiction is a family disease, and children often suffer first and are the last to receive help,” said Dr. Rachel Docekal, CEO of Hanley Foundation. “The program empowers children to build resilience and overcome adversity by helping them discover their inner strength, develop new skills, and establish supportive networks.”
Hanley Foundation and NACoA developed the program with Jerry Moe, MA, a renowned author, speaker, and consultant who serves as the senior clinical advisor at NACoA. Moe is nationally recognized for contributing to the creation of Karli, the Sesame Street Muppet whose family grapples with addiction. A passionate advocate for children affected by addiction, Moe helped develop the program’s framework to address the critical issues children and their families face.
Over the course of three days, the program provides children with the tools they need to take control of their own lives and feelings. Each day focuses on one of the three core healing stages: learning about addiction, opening doors, and self-care. On the first day, children receive age-appropriate education on addiction, including alcohol and drugs, and key concepts such as loss of control, relapse, and recovery. The second day helps children express their feelings through storytelling, artwork, and letters, breaking the silence around addiction. On the last day, families focus on self-care and communication skills, enabling children to share their experiences with caregivers.
“Children are at a heightened risk of developing their own addictions, facing maltreatment, and experiencing mental health challenges,” said Peggy McGillicuddy of NACoA. “This program acknowledges the lasting effects of growing up with loved ones who struggle with addiction and, ultimately, empowers children to break the generational cycle of addiction.”
Families or caregivers can sign up for the November program session by filling out an inquiry form at hanleyfoundation.org/resources/child-centered-family-program.
The next program session will be held from Friday, December 13 to Sunday, December 15.
