A health and community program supporting
transgender, two spirit, intersex, and gender diverse people in the East & West Kootenay regions.
We believe that:
- You shouldn't have to live in the city to access trans-competent care.
- Diverse gender identities are valid and a natural part of human cultures and bodies worldwide.
- Access to hormones, surgeries, gender-affirming garments, and other trans-positive healthcare options are a matter of harm reduction, personal choice, and should be available to all individuals through informed consent.
- Community support and belonging are foundational for the overall health of all people.
We offer:
- Community education, workshops, and consulting for service providers, businesses, community groups, and schools to increase allyship and awareness about the transgender community. (All free of charge, or by donation, and flexibly designed to meet the needs of your group.)
- Community support groups and events for LGBTQ2IA+ youth and trans, two spirit, intersex, and gender diverse community members of all ages to support togetherness and health.
- One-on-one emotional and practical support (in person or online) for gender diverse people and their families around healthcare navigation, ID changes, coming out, confidence, overcoming dysphoria, and achieving their wellness goals.
Workshops
- Understanding sexual orientation & gender identity (SOGI) age-appropriate presentations for K – 12 classes in schools
- Trans 101 workshops for groups and communities
- Professional development for teachers, healthcare professionals, counsellors, and community workers
- Consulting for service professionals seeking trans-positive information
Support & Community
- Gender Outlaws groups in Nelson, Trail, and Cranbrook for trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming, two spirit, intersex, and questioning people (all ages)
- Under the Umbrella group in Nelson for LGBTQ2IA+, questioning, and allied youth (ages 12 – 18)
- Kootenay LGBTQ2IA+ events calendar
- Mentorship & buddy connections
Individual Support
- Peer support for exploring your gender identity, coming out, emotional support, and supporting a trans loved one
- Health navigation for hormones, surgeries, and trans-positive physical & mental healthcare
- Notary services and support for name and gender marker changes on ID
- Information on human rights and self-advocacy support
- Referrals to trans-positive community services