![]() Samia Lalani, Assistant Program Director, says the organization has responded to COVID-19 by moving its drop-in programs online, using Zoom to connect with youth and steer them to needed resources. area, and its services include leadership development, transitional housing, and a number of after-school programs including discussion groups and self-care workshops. SMYAL is dedicated to serving LGBTQ youth in the D.C. Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders (SMYAL) “While we can’t have mass gatherings right now, we want to make sure that if you’re feeling some kind of way, whether it involves anxiety, suicidal ideation, or any other issues, we can connect you with the right resources, whether it’s in-house or externally,” Costen says.įor more information about Safe Space NOVA, visit The organization accepts donations via PayPal at Photo courtesy of SMYAL.Ģ. With Virginia’s stay-at-home order in effect until June 10, in-person meetings are postponed, but Safe Space NOVA is seeking to provide assistance to youth who find themselves without a support network due to the closure of schools and colleges.Īlthough the organization has not historically provided counseling to at-risk youth, executive director Jordan Costen says Safe Space NOVA is taking advantage of the time off by expanding its offerings, bringing a school psychologist on staff who can meet the mental health needs of its client base. Approximately one-quarter of its clients are trans or nonbinary youth. ![]() Your support can make a world of difference - whether today, in honor of TDOV, or any time of year.Īn Alexandria-based LGBTQ youth group, Safe Space NOVA provides social activities and a support network to LGBTQ teens in Northern Virginia, including mentorship, scholarships, and professional caseworker support. In particular, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has required a retooling of strategies, as in-person events are postponed and services move online. While national LGBTQ groups are offering a number of online campaigns to help people show support for trans people, these local organizations are equally deserving of your attention and praise - and, if possible, your financial support. ![]() TDOV is an annual event, occurring March 31, that celebrates transgender people and their contributions to society, and raises awareness of the discrimination or other obstacles that transgender people face in their daily lives. This International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV), we’re highlighting four incredible D.C.-area organizations dedicating to supporting and lifting up the transgender community. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |