The Center Project

Prism is a youth group serving teens aged 13-18 who identify as LGBTQI and their allies. It meets every Thursday at the Center Project and typically has an attendance of 10-20 youth. The teens served are largely those whose needs are not met by local GSA's or that come from communities where GSA's do not exist. Many of the students are working toward a social identity or medical gender transition and/or are dealing with major mental health issues. Prism provides a solid foundation of support where youth are free to be who they are despite shifting identities. Adult coordinators at each meeting ensure that an open and affirming environment is fostered.

The Transgender Blender is a support group for those who identify on the transgender spectrum. A group of 12-15 individuals meet on a bi-weekly basis and as an information clearing house, socialization network, and support group. Participants receive information related to gender transition, referrals to transgender-friendly healthcare providers, liaise with T-NET, and socialize with other individuals at various stages of transition. As transgender individuals still face discrimination in public venues, this group also acts as a way for individuals to process these events with others who may have had a similar experience. They also seek ways to better educate the public on how to properly interact with transgender individuals (ex: use of preferred vs given gender pronouns).

Parents4Parents is a group that offers support for parents of LGBT children of LGBT adults that have children. Even in today's society where non-conformity with gender norms is accepted many parents still have questions when their children "come out". On a similar note, LGBT parents still encounter issues with the legal system as well as helping their children deal with possible school issues surrounding having same-sex parents. This group meets bi-weekly and allows parents to provide support and share experiences. The goal of this group is to help diffuse confusion so parents can provide adequate support for their children. This group has an average attendance of 10-12 people (mix of parents/children).