HOPE 2026: Celebrating the Journey
What is the HOPE Conference?
The HOPE Conference is a statewide recovery and wellness conference for persons in recovery from substance abuse use and mental health challenges and service providers. It was created to help participants gain a greater understanding of what recovery and wellness looks like from the many paths and different perspectives on the journey of life.
The workshops will be based on honoring a broader definition of wellness and restoring our sense of community. All workshops will allow for the opportunity to learn from each other, network, and gain greater understanding about recovery and wellness. This year’s theme is meant to focus on how we energize the me to we connections. How do I as an individual connect more closely with my communities of choice?
We want to look at how we honor and connect all our experiences as a broad peer recovery community. We honor building broader definitions of wellness, diversity and restoring our sense of community. Please join the conversation and explore how this is or can be reflected in systems/services, our individual choices, journeys, and continuing to create a supportive, accepting, and vibrant community.
Additional Details below!
Reach out to Simonne Maline for questions: smaline@maineccsm.org
The HOPE Conference planning committee is looking for workshop presenters for this year’s conference.
All workshops must be facilitated or lead by a consumer/peer!
NEW This Year Presentation Mentors’ Available!
Do you have an idea for a presentation at the 2026 Hope Conference in May but aren’t sure where to start or would like some support navigating the proposal process?
If you are interested in presenting at the 2026 Hope Conference it is not too early to start thinking about your topic and what you would like to share in your presentation. Email Vickie Hebert at vhebert@maineccm.org to request being paired with a mentor and any further information that would help us pair you with the right person.
Please note that we will bring requests back to the planning committee so you may not hear back from us right away.
You don’t have to do it alone and it doesn’t have to be complicated! We have experienced Hope Conference Presenters volunteering to support you in…
- Refining your idea into a Vision that compliments the Conference Theme; Celebrating The Journey
- Turning your Vision into a Proposal (Call for Proposals will be sent separately) due in January, 2026
- Taking your approved Proposal and creating a 70 minute presentation that captures the audience’s attention
Would you like to design this year’s theme logo? Now is your chance!
Looking for artwork to match this year’s theme! All submissions must be able to be sized to 2 inches or less.
The chosen design will be used on all conference materials, website and social media!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be lunch options for those with allergies or dietary restrictions?
All meal options will be shellfish-free, peanut-free, and tree nut-free. There will be gluten-free and vegetarian options provided.
Is there another way I can register?
There is no option to register by mail this year. Registration can be completed here online or by fax to 207-878-6172. If registering by fax, you will be responsible for paying the registration fee at the door. For registration questions, contact ccoddaire@ccsme.org | 207-878-6170.
What is the cancellation policy?
There will be no refunds for cancellations. If you need to cancel your registration, contact ccoddaire@ccsme.org | 207-878-6170
Can I get mileage reimbursed?
Mileage is reimbursed for peers/consumers using their own vehicle to travel 150+ miles round trip within the state of Maine and who are not receiving reimbursement from another organization. Mileage reimbursement forms will be available at the conference.
Who can enter the gas card raffle?
Anyone traveling less than 150 miles to the conference can enter the raffle for one of five $25 gas cards. Those receiving mileage reimbursement (from HOPE or other organization) are not eligible to enter to the gas card raffle.
Can I have hotel or lodging reimbursed?
Lodging for one night is available to peers/consumers who travel more than 130 miles one way within the state of Maine to attend. Please contact Simonne Maline – for information.
Where do I find descriptions for each workshop?
The HOPE 2025 Workshop Descriptions can be found at the link in the description above. Please select one workshop for each session to attend.
