Third Annual Transgender Youth Empowerment Workshop
Stand with Trans will host a one-day workshop for transgender youth (ages 12-22), parents of trans individuals and gender-expansive children (ages 6-11).
This expanded event is intended to give transgender kids a place to connect, explore creative outlets and take away skills that will empower them to feel more confident as they navigate an often-difficult journey.
The theme this year is "Express Yourself," which is just what we want the participants to feel that they can do - be their authentic selves while interacting and learning in a safe space.
The workshop will be held at the Orchard United Methodist Church in Farmington Hills and is FREE to all participants between the ages of 6-22. Lunch will be included; Pizza provided by Dominos.
The workshop format will offer youth (12-22) a choice of sessions in each time slot. There are eight planned sessions/activities which will be run by transgender adults, advocates and experts in their fields. Additionally, young children may attend and participate in activities that will include art, stories and free play in the gym. Further, parents who register may attend all day as well. Several sessions are being planned such as: How to talk to your family doctor and local schools, Sexual health for trans teens and Your faith and your trans child, is it either or?
Founder, Roz Keith explains, "We created this day so transgender youth would have the opportunity to connect with others who are traveling along a similar path. They need to know that they are not alone. Helping (trans) kids to feel more confident and to be proud of who they are will, in the long run, strengthen families and contribute to improved emotional well-being of the transgender youth community."
The workshop is presented by Springmatter of Ann Arbor. Some of the event sponsors include Mercedes Benz Financial Services, Wentworth Associates, Know Resolve, Inclusive Justice, Temple Israel and University of Michigan Comprehensive Gender Services. The Arbonne Charitable Foundation is providing personal care products for all youth (12-22) who attend.
To register for the event, interested participants can go to:
https://www.standwithtrans.org/2017-workshop-registration
Orchard United Methodist Church is located at 30450 Farmington Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48334. There is plenty of parking.
The mission of Stand with Trans is to provide the tools needed by transgender youth so they will be empowered, supported and validated as they transition to their authentic life. Stand with Trans is a 501(c)(3). For more information or to donate, visit www.standwithtrans.org.