Your voice, your story, and your lived experience have the power to shape systems and guide real change.

The Stand in your power resources support people with lived experience (PWLE) in deciding if, when, and how to share their stories — and helps identify pathways for involvement and action. Why this resource was created PWLE are often asked to share their stories without enough transparency, support, or clarity about what happens next.

These resources were created to:

• Explain why lived experience matters in shaping healthcare and other systems that impact people’s lives
• Support informed, intentional, and ethical storytelling
• Help move beyond one-time story sharing by highlighting pathways to deeper engagement and leadership

Who is this resource for:

• PWLE of healthcare, housing instability, Medicaid, or other services
• Community members, patients, and family partners interested in advocacy or advisory roles
• Organizations and facilitators seeking to support ethical and authentic storytelling and community engagement

What’s included:

• Long guide: A detailed resource that outlines key considerations before sharing your story and provides concrete ways to get involved — including local, state, and national advocacy, advisory councils, and community-based opportunities.
• 1-page guide: A brief, plain-language overview of the key ideas, with links to the long guide and additional resources.

How to use this resource:

• Review before agreeing to share your story to reflect on readiness, boundaries, and goals
• Use the “Ways to Get Involved” section in the long guide to explore next steps that align with your interests
• Share the 1-pager with peers as an entry point to storytelling and community engagement

Learn more:

To learn more about INSPIRE and additional resources on authentic community engagement, visit the INSPIRE page or contact Taylor Brown at [email protected].