My personal connection to this work runs deep.
I am continually inspired by the resilience, brilliance, and joy of queer and trans communities. Despite facing discrimination and erasure, LGBTQ+ youth continue to lead with love, freedom, and unapologetic self-expression. It’s an honor to create spaces where they are affirmed, celebrated, and supported as they explore who they are and what healthy relationships mean to them.
LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity at RAISE
RAISE supports LGBTQIA+ youth with education rooted in joy, affirmation, and self-expression.
Affirming Support in an Uncertain Climate
Across the country, LGBTQ+ youth—especially transgender and nonbinary students—are facing a wave of restrictive laws and educational policies that erase their identities, silence their experiences, and make schools feel unsafe. As both educators and caregivers, it’s vital that we create spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and affirmed. At RAISE Coaching, I am committed to standing in that gap—providing education that celebrates every student’s self-expression and exploration.
Grounded in Experience, Guided by Purpose
For over 7 years, I have provided gender- and orientation-inclusive sexual health education to youth and families.
At Response for Teens in Chicago, I taught comprehensive sex education to students ages 10 to 18 in public and private schools, as well as in religious settings — with a particular focus on helping youth understand gender identity, sexual orientation, and the importance of inclusive, respectful relationships.
As the current Education Programs Manager at YES Institute in Miami, I facilitate community dialogues on gender and orientation with youth, parents, mental health providers, educators, and corporate partners — equipping them with the tools to reduce LGBTQ+ stigma and prevent suicide through family acceptance and affirming environments.
Now, through RAISE Coaching, I work one-on-one or in small groups to provide personalized, shame-free education that validates the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA+ youth while creating a supportive space for exploration, learning, and growth.
Inclusive Conversations—Always
No matter a student’s gender or orientation, every conversation at RAISE is inclusive by design. From the language I use to the examples I share, I ensure that all students—LGBTQ+ or not—see themselves reflected in the material and know that this is a space where they can ask questions, be themselves, and grow at their own pace.
Exploration is Welcome Here
Sexuality and gender aren’t always linear journeys. Whether a student is out and proud, just starting to question, or simply unsure, RAISE Coaching is a space where exploration is respected, identity is celebrated, and it’s always okay not to have everything figured out.