NPE

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OUR STORY IS MISSION-DRIVEN

Mission

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Journey

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Vision

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Process

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Growth

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OUR COMMUNITY IS ACTIVE & ENGAGED

Our Mission

NPE Network supports individuals and families affected by unexpected DNA discoveries—such as adoption, donor conception, or misattributed parentage. These life-altering revelations often come without warning and can create emotional upheaval, identity confusion, and a deep sense of loss.

Our mission is to provide compassionate, peer-based support that validates each person’s experience while offering guidance, education, and tools for healing.

Through our private communities, curated resources, and public advocacy, we aim to foster clarity, connection, and resilience. Whether you are the person directly impacted or a loved one navigating the ripple effects, NPE Network is here to walk alongside you.

We believe in empowering people to make sense of their stories and rebuild their sense of self—with honesty, dignity, and support.

Our Journey

In June 2017, after searching for emotional support tailored to those who had experienced an NPE (Not Parent Expected) discovery and finding no dedicated resources, our founder, Catherine St Clair, created a private Facebook group to fill the gap.

What began with just two people quickly grew—over 20 members joined in the first week, and by the group’s first anniversary, it had surpassed 1,000 members. As of late today, we have grown to nearly 10,000 members worldwide!

As Catherine witnessed the widespread and deeply personal impact of NPE discoveries, she saw the urgent need for more structured, ongoing support.

In 2018, she launched NPE Friends Fellowship to meet that need—a foundational step that evolved into what is now NPE Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocacy, education, and compassionate community for those navigating the emotional aftermath of unexpected DNA revelations.

Our Vision

Community

At its heart, NPE Network is a space for connection, healing, and shared understanding—so no one has to face this life-changing discovery alone.

  • At its heart, NPE Network is a place for connection, healing, and hope.

    We provide:

    • A private, moderated Facebook support group for NPEs

    • Specialized online groups for biological parents, spouses, children, and extended family

    • In-person Meet & Greets, retreats, and community events

    These shared spaces offer emotional safety and understanding—so no one has to go through this experience alone.

    Through interviews, public speaking, educational content, and social media, NPE Network is raising awareness about the emotional and relational complexities of DNA discoveries—and helping the public better understand what it means to be an NPE.

Awareness

DNA surprises affect more people than most realize. NPE Network raises awareness about what it means to discover unexpected parentage.

  • It’s estimated that 5–10% of people who take at-home DNA tests discover a surprising parental result. These discoveries don’t just impact one individual—they often ripple outward to affect dozens of family members, including parents, siblings, spouses, and children.

    Through interviews, public speaking, educational content, and social media, NPE Network is raising awareness about the emotional and relational complexities of DNA discoveries—and helping the public better understand what it means to be an NPE.

Education

We believe NPEs and their families deserve more than just support—they deserve resources that lead to real healing and peace.

  • Our educational efforts include:

    • Hosting conferences and events

    • Sharing stories and helpful resources

    • Partnering with researchers to study the emotional and mental health effects of NPE discoveries

    • Working to equip mental health professionals with trauma-informed insight into the NPE experience

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We’re proud to be part of shaping a future where NPEs are seen, supported, and understood—by professionals and loved ones alike.

What is an “NPE?”