GLOBAL INITIATIVES

At Alchemize HOPE, we believe that suicide and substance use are languages of pain, survival skills, and trauma reactions. Our mission is to bring awareness, change conversations, and promote responses of HOPE rather than fear.

At Alchemize HOPE, we believe that suicide and substance use are languages of pain, survival skills, and trauma reactions. We aim to bring awareness to the world, change conversations about these important topics, and support learning how to respond with HOPE instead of fear. Heal Trauma, Be Trauma-Aware.

Alchemize HOPE Global Initiatives are intentional.

We aim to CONNECT, LEARN, GROW, AND HEAL TOGETHER in society.

FREE HUGS

Free HUGS Initiative

Intended to connect individuals, learn through awareness, grow through practicing hope, and heal the world one hug at a time. Our merchandise inspires HOPE and Healing, raises awareness, starts meaningful conversations, and respects those who do not want physical hugs with "you've been hugged" messages, showing compassion and thoughtfulness.

Our Free HUGS initiative aims to:

Connect: individuals through awareness, compassion and HOPE

Learn: about Trauma, Trauma-Aware Approach- Alchemize HOPE’s: “Pathway to HOPE”, Suicide as a Language of Pain (SLOP)

Grow: through practicing HOPEful responses

Heal: the world one hug at a time

Our merchandise inspires HOPE and Healing in the world, brings awareness and education, and starts meaningful conversations. Respectfully express compassion through our “you’ve been hugged” initiative, which honors those who do not want physical hugs.

Did you know a 20-second hug can transform lives?

The 20-Second Hug Benefits

Emotional Bonding: Releases oxytocin, fostering connection and trust.

Reduces Stress: Lowers cortisol levels, promoting relaxation.

Improves Mood: Natural release of oxytocin and serotonin, combating depression and anxiety.

Lowers Blood Pressure: Stimulates touch receptors, decreasing heart rate.

Boosts Immune System: Reduces stress, promoting overall well-being.

Increases Happiness: Elevates serotonin levels, enhancing joy.

Strengthens Relationships: Reinforces emotional and physical connections.

Join us to uncover the wonders of the 20-second hug and how it can transform our lives.

Hugging Across Cultures: A Global Perspective

Understanding cultural differences in hugging practices:

Western Societies: Common as a greeting among friends, open expression.

Eastern Cultures: Reserved for close family, private approach.

Latin America: Integral part of daily interactions, signifies warmth.

Middle East: Less common in public, reflects norms around personal space.

Scandinavian: More reserved, used in intimate settings.

Adapting to Change: Hugging in the Era of Social Distancing

Even with physical separation, innovative solutions like virtual hugs and hug curtains keep the essence of hugging alive, maintaining bonds and highlighting the importance of touch.

Check out the Alchemize HOPE team spreading Free Hugs love at the Oregon Starlight Parade

Alchemize HOPE Institute Founder, Angel Prater at the US Marshall National Sheriffs Association Confernce.

SLOP INITIATIVE

SLOP Initiative: Suicide as a Language of Pain (SLOP) Support Group

Founded by Angel Prater in 2010, this support group offers a space for survivors of suicide and those struggling with suicidal ideation to share their experiences without fear-based reactions. Many survivors hide their experiences due to fear of being treated as fragile or being forced into unwanted treatments.

Who: Anyone who has tried to complete suicide or lives with suicidal thoughts.

What: A 90-minute support group facilitated by survivors for survivors.

Why: Provides a brave space to cultivate a safe environment to discuss pain and suicide without judgment or shame.

Shop Now

Explore our HOPE-driven merchandise, inspire healing, and support our cause.

Heal Trauma, Be Trauma-Aware.