#USA #Miami #Healing #ACEs #STAR Network

The Scars to STARs Summit 2026: A Global Celebration of Healing

On May 22, 2026, a significant event is set to unfold as tens of thousands of individuals from over 60 countries converge for the Scars to STARs Summit 2026. This virtual summit, organized by the STAR Network Foundation, marks a monumental celebration of 30 years of research and advocacy surrounding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The summit's mission underscores a fundamental truth: healing is a human right, and it should be accessible to all.

A Call to Action

The summit, titled Scars to STARs, invites participation from anyone who has ever felt that healing was distant, too costly, or overly complex. Attendees will experience an enriching program featuring a range of speakers, including Patrick J. Kennedy, a former U.S. Congressman and a leading voice in mental health advocacy. Kennedy's address promises to be a source of inspiration, emphasizing themes of resilience and transformation deeply rooted in the recovery movement.

Honoring Pioneers of ACEs Research

A key highlight will be the historic tribute to Dr. Vincent J. Felitti and Dr. Robert F. Anda, the leading scientists behind the groundbreaking ACEs study conducted in 1998. Their research not only reshaped the understanding of childhood trauma but also highlighted its connections to various health issues, establishing a critical foundation for trauma-informed practices today. Both researchers will receive the 2026 STAR NeuroLeadership Award during the summit, affirming the enduring relevance of their contributions.

Announcing a New Era of Healing

In a landmark move for the STAR Network ecosystem, attendees can look forward to the official announcement regarding the integration of PACEs Connection, a global network comprising over 69,000 members across 500 chapters. This integration represents a vital new phase in collaborative, peer-led, evidence-based healing efforts aimed at creating accessible recovery pathways in communities worldwide.

Connecting Threads of Compassion

The summit is designed to foster connections among a diverse group of participants, including survivors, families, clinicians, advocates, and policymakers. By bridging experiences and expertise, the gathering aims to cultivate a nurturing environment rooted in compassion and understanding.

The Importance of This Gathering

Why is this summit particularly urgent? Statistics paint a stark picture: fewer than one in four adults with a substance use disorder receive the treatment they need. As mental health conditions threaten to cost the global economy over $6 trillion annually by 2030, the implications of untreated trauma are alarming. The ACEs research links childhood adversity with nine of the ten leading causes of death in the United States, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action.

A Commitment to Accessibility

The summit promises to be completely free of charge. There are no tiers, no paywalls, and no premium sessions - only equitable access to valuable knowledge and support. The STAR Network Foundation remains dedicated to ensuring that recovery is not a luxury reserved for a select few but a fundamental right for all.

Who Should Attend?

Whether you are a survivor on your personal healing journey, a clinician eager for new perspectives, an HR professional aiming to support your team better, or an advocate looking to amplify the cause, this summit is thoughtfully designed for you. Registration is quick and uncomplicated, paving the way for lasting impact and connections that extend far beyond the event itself.

Join the Movement

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative gathering. By joining the Scars to STARs Summit 2026, you’ll not only gain valuable insights but also contribute to a global movement pushing for accessible healing for all.

For more information and to register for this groundbreaking event, visit starnetwork.org. Remember, every voice counts, and together, we can create a supportive ecosystem where healing thrives.