Parent & Professionals Institute

Workshops and Programming

Join one of these classroom style workshops to further your knowledge and expertise in interacting with LGBTQ+ youth in personal and professional settings!

Creating Safe Spaces: Empowering Families & Educators for LGBTQ+ Student Advocacy

Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to advocate for LGBTQ+ student rights in the evolving educational landscape. This workshop guides educators on fostering inclusive environments, addressing challenges, and supporting marginalized students. Learn effective strategies to promote acceptance, combat discrimination, and create safe spaces.

Supporting LGBTQ College Access & Success

In a 2022 study by UCLA’s Williams Institute and Point Foundation, more than 60% of LGBTQ students reported not being out to any faculty or staff on their campus. How can educators, professionals, and caregivers best support the wellbeing and success of LGBTQ students in college? In this workshop, we will discuss selecting an affirming campus, navigating financial aid, and helping students advocate for themselves on campus.

Affirmative Mental Healthcare: Strategies for Supporting the Mental Well-Being of LGBTQIA+ Youth

The goal of this workshop is to equip professionals and parents to support the mental health of LGBTQIA+ youth with affirmative care. This workshop includes an overview of mental illness among LGBTQIA+ youth and barriers to care access. Strategies for affirmative mental healthcare are presented, derived from research on the experiences of LGBTQIA+ youth in mental health systems. Participants will have opportunity to dialogue about additional strategies for affirmative care and mental healthcare system change.

Proud Children, Proud Parents: Navigating the LGBTQ+ Experiences

Join us for an open conversation on Society, Family, Mental Health, Harm Reduction, and Recovery. We’ll explore the intricate links between mental health, sexual health, substance use, and societal behaviors within diverse family structures. This hybrid discussion features panelists, informative slides, and resources from the LGBT Center and other organizations. We’ll cover topics from navigating heteronormative society to harm reduction tools, STI/HIV prevention, and available services. Bring your questions for our panelists, and take home bilingual flyers, info brochures, and harm reduction tools for a healthier, more informed journey.

The Williams Institute — Research That Matters

The Williams Institute legal scholars and researchers will present recent research findings or legal decisions that relate to LGBTQ youth, particularly in California.

Act Out! Gender, Power, & Consent

Be an advocate for your sexual health! Using videos and theater, we will explore how gender and power dynamics can influence our ability to communicate about consent, use protection, and advocate for our sexual health.