We are Parents Forever

Welcome to Parents Forever. We are a mutual support group for parents and family members of adults struggling with substance use, mental health issues, or both. We have been dedicated to helping parents cope with and navigate the difficult journey of their struggling loved ones since 2000.

We are financially and professionally supported by Vancouver Coastal Health and Turning Point Recovery Society.

At the centre of our work is you. We strive to help people learn new ways of coping and maintaining a connection with their struggling loved ones.

Since 2000 we’ve been led by founder and veteran facilitator Frances Kenny. We are an experienced, reliable, and compassionate source of support and education.

Parents and families often learn about Parents Forever through recommendations from substance use counsellors, doctors, lawyers, hospitals, community health centres, and social service agencies.

Join us to find support and hope.

How to join

Joining Parents Forever is usually done over the phone with group facilitator Frances Kenny who explains what to expect from the group, its philosophy, and its mandate.

We ask that all potential members contact us first before joining in at our weekly Friday sessions. We want to ensure you are well served and that the group is what you’re looking for.

Go to our Contact page for full information.

Our meetings

Currently the group meets weekly and virtually via Zoom, with an in-person meeting two to three times a year. The in-person meetings are held at St. Mary's Kerrisdale in Vancouver.

Confidentiality

Parents Forever strictly adheres to confidentiality during our meetings because of the personal and sensitive nature of what members discuss.

Confidentiality means:

• what's said in the meeting stays in the meeting

• we never identify and name other people and their situations outside the group

• when joining by Zoom you must be visible on screen as well as anyone else in the room

• please ensure that no one can overhear the meeting

• no last names are used in the group, on any attendance records or communication

Communication

We maintain regular communication with the Parents Forever membership through confidential email, regular meetings, special presentations, and events.

We encourage you to communicate directly with our facilitator Frances Kenny to discuss specific issues. Please write to fkenny(at)telus.net

Our mission

Parents Forever is a mutual support group for parents, family members and caregivers dealing with the day-to-day challenges of having loved ones living with substance use and mental health issues in their lives.

Parents Forever:

• addresses a wide range of issues aimed at building resilience under difficult circumstances and maintaining the best relationships possible with our loved one. This includes supporting without enabling, setting firm and sensible boundaries, learning how to communicate effectively with your loved one and more

• shares information and resources

• teaches positive and healthy self-care 

We do not give advice, we do not counsel, and we do not pass judgement. We are there to share our experiences and wisdom; offer understanding and caring, and provide support as needed.