Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom Empowering Freedom

Empowering Freedom

Empowering Communities Together

Empowering Freedom

Empowering Communities Together

Virtual Ethics Trainings

Ethical Decision-making for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Virtual Ethics Training (3 CE Hours)
This interactive virtual training focuses on navigating real-world ethical dilemmas commonly faced by peer support professionals. Participants will explore structured ethical decision-making models, examine scenarios related to boundaries, confidentiality, dual relationships, cultural considerations, and safety, and strengthen their ability to make thoughtful, ethical choices in complex situations. This training counts for 3 hours of Ethics toward Pennsylvania Certification Board requirements.
Date: TBD

For more information: contact@empoweringfreedom.org

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Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Virtual Ethics Training (3 CE Hours)
This interactive virtual training explores core ethical principles for peer support professionals, with a focus on boundaries, confidentiality, ethical decision-making, and real-world scenarios. Designed for Certified Peer Specialists, Certified Recovery Specialists, and Certified Family Recovery Speci

For more information: contact@empoweringfreedom.org

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Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Virtual Ethics Training Series for Peer Specialists (6 CE Hours)
This interactive virtual training package combines Ethical Principles and Ethical Decision-Making for peer support professionals. Participants will explore the Pennsylvania Certification Board Code of Ethics, professional boundaries, confidentiality, and scope of practice, while also building practical skills for navigating real-world ethical dilemmas using structured decision-making models and case scenarios. Designed for Certified Peer Specialists, Certified Recovery Specialists, and Certified Family Recovery Specialists, this package counts for 6 hours of Ethics toward Pennsylvania Certification Board requirements.
Dates: TBD

For more information: contact@empoweringfreedom.org

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About Empowering Freedom

Our Mission

At Empowering Freedom, our mission is to provide top-notch community support services to individuals in need. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all our clients.

Our Team

Our team is made up of experienced and compassionate professionals who are dedicated to helping our clients. We take pride in the quality of care we provide and are committed to making a positive impact in our community.

Our Services

We offer a wide range of community support services, including counseling, group therapy, and case management. Our goal is to help our clients achieve their full potential and live fulfilling lives.

Upcoming Speaking Engagements

james bollinger

Hear Co-Founder, James Bollinger, at the 2026 SWSD in Kenya

Empowering Freedom is proud to announce that Founder James Bollinger will be presenting at the 2026 Joint World Conference on Social Work and Social Development (SWSD 2026), taking place June 26–29, 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya.

James’s presentation, “WRAP Across Cultures: Embodying Hara

Hear Co-Founder, James Bollinger, at the 2026 SWSD in Kenya

James’s presentation, “WRAP Across Cultures: Embodying Harambee to Expand Mental Health Tools in Kenya,” highlights the introduction and cultural adaptation of the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) within Kenyan communities. Grounded in the spirit of Harambee—“pulling together”—the session shares how peer-led, evidence-based mental health tools can be expanded in ways that honor local culture, collective healing, and community strengths.

Drawing from WRAP trainings conducted in partnership with West Chester University and HAKI group, a community-based organization in Kibera, the presentation explores how practices such as storytelling, song, prayer, and communal dialogue were integrated with WRAP’s core principles of hope, self-advocacy, personal responsibility, education, and support. The session also highlights WRAP as a low-cost, scalable, and sustainable model for increasing access to mental health self-management tools without reliance on extensive clinical infrastructure.

This work reflects Empowering Freedom’s ongoing commitment to peer leadership, cultural humility, and global collaboration in advancing mental health and social well-being.

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Available Trainings

Empowerment, Support, and Skills: Transformative Trainings for Mental Health and Peer Support

Designed for individuals and professionals passionate about mental wellness and peer support, our expert-led courses equip you with practical tools, real-world insights, and the confidence to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're an individual looking to grow or an organization aiming to support your team, our expert-led courses provide practical tools and real-world insights. Trainings can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization, ensuring maximum impact and relevance.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Seminar I

WRAP Seminar I: Building Your Wellness Toolbox
This foundational workshop introduces participants to the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), a peer-developed evidence-based system for managing wellness and recovery. Through interactive sessions, you'll learn how to create your own WRAP, explore key recovery concepts, and develop personalized strategies for staying well. Ideal for individuals seeking greater self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment in their mental health journey. description.

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Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Seminar II - Facilitator Training

WRAP Seminar II: Become a Certified WRAP Facilitator
WRAP Seminar II is an intensive, interactive training designed for individuals who have completed WRAP Seminar I and are ready to take the next step as WRAP group facilitators. Participants deepen their understanding of WRAP values and facilitation skills, learning how to create a safe, supportive environment that empowers others in their wellness journeys. Successful completion leads to certification as a WRAP Facilitator, opening the door to leading groups and trainings in your community or organization..

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Peer Support Within the Criminal Justice System: Forensic Peer Support

Forensic Peer Support: Lived Experience Meets the Justice System
This training is designed for individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges who also have experience with the criminal justice system. It explores the unique role of forensic peer support in jails, prisons, courts, and reentry programs. Participants will gain tools to support others involved in the justice system, understand key legal and ethical considerations, and build skills to foster hope, connection, and recovery in challenging environments.

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Entrepreneurial Freedom Training Program

The Small Business Incubator Training Program is a hands-on, guided experience designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners from idea to execution. The program begins with mindset development and business planning, then moves into key areas such as business development, branding, marketing, and financial literacy. Participants also receive support with EIN registration and LLC formation, ensuring a solid legal foundation for their ventures.

Through expert-led workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and pitch coaching, entrepreneurs gain the confidence and skills needed to grow and fund their businesses. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this program equips you with the tools, knowledge, and connections to build a sustainable, successful business.

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Adult Mental Health First Aid

Adult Mental Health First Aid: Be the Help Until Help Arrives
This evidence-based training teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adults. Through interactive instruction and real-life scenarios, you'll learn how to approach someone in crisis, offer initial support, and connect them with appropriate resources. Ideal for workplaces, community members, and anyone looking to build confidence in supporting mental well-being.

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Our Team

James Bollinger

Leonard "Lenny" Burnett

James is a compassionate recovery professional with extensive experience in peer support, training facilitation, and community outreach. As co-founder of Empowering Freedom, he develops and leads innovative training programs that foster recovery, resilience, and personal growth. James is a Certified Peer Specialist and Advanced WRAP Facilitator, committed to empowering individuals through recovery education and solution-based support. His work includes facilitating peer-led sessions, mentoring individuals in behavioral health recovery, and promoting recovery-informed practices in workplaces across the region.

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Leonard "Lenny" Burnett

Lenny is a dedicated recovery leader, peer support advocate, and co-founder of Empowering Freedom, a peer-led initiative focused on recovery, reentry, and personal transformation. With extensive experience in program development, training facilitation, and community-based support, Lenny specializes in creating safe, therapeutic environments that empower individuals to reclaim their lives. He is a Certified Peer Specialist, Advanced WRAP Facilitator, and Forensic Peer Support Trainer, committed to promoting resilience and reducing stigma. A recipient of the NAMI Glenn Koons Recovery Award, Lenny leads with compassion, experience, and a deep commitment to helping others thrive beyond adversity.

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Empowering Freedom

Empowering Freedom

Virtual Ethics Trainings

Ethical Decision-making for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principles for Peer Specialists $40

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75

Ethical Principals AND Ethical Decision-Making for Peer Specialists $75