Statewide Campaign Committee - Apply by August 31, 2025 The Genders & Sexualities Alliance (GSA) Network of California is excited to launch applications for the 2025–2026 Statewide Campaign Committee, a virtual leadership development program for Trans, Queer, and Two-Spirit (TQ2S+) youth; Black, Indigenous, and youth of color; and allies, ages 13 to 17 who live in and attend school in California. From September 2025 to May 2026, youth leaders will: Organize for safer, more inclusive schools Lead local and statewide campaigns … [Read more...]
2025-2026 LGBTQ+ Hotlines
The Trevor Project | thetrevorproject.org/crisis-services Crisis counselors are trained to answer calls, chats, or texts from LGBTQ+ young people who reach out on our free, confidential and secure 24/7 service when they are struggling with issues such as coming out, LGBTQ+ identity, depression, and suicide. Call: 1-866-488-7386 Text 'Start' to 678-678 Chat: chat.trvr.org Trans Lifeline | translifeline.org Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and … [Read more...]
Upcoming Youth Programming @ The Epicenter, Salinas
Adulting 101 Back to School Workshop, August 20 When: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 @ 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm Pencil Pouch Decorating with Love & Craft and Cafecito Con Arely, August 21 When: Thursday, August 21 @ 4pm-5:30 pm *NEW* Monthly Epicenter Study Groups, 3rd Wednesdays @12 pm - 6 pm Q-Turn Hours: LGBTQ+ Peer Support Drop in services, Every Wednesday @ 12 pm - 5 pm … [Read more...]
Upcoming Youth Programming @ EDI Educators
We're in the dog days of summer, and looking forward to seeing you all to celebrate and get ready to head back to school. We'll be telling great stories, playing all kinds of games, getting your health questions answered by experts, watching classic fun movies, going on a Big Queer Weekend field trip, and practicing some skills to start the year off right! We'll also be back to weekly lunch delivery when the school year starts, so don't forget to sign up if you need meals. Our pal Alyssa will be moving soon, so please join us for an extra … [Read more...]
Celebrating August as Transgender History Month!
Celebrated throughout the month of August in the State of California, Transgender History Month was first legally recognized by Mayoral Proclamation in the City of San Francisco in 2021. It is a month in which Transgender Californians honor the rich history and contributions of transgender history makers, pioneers, and trailblazers, and affirms the ongoing presence of transgender people in San Francisco and around the world. Learn more at transgenderhistorymonth.com … [Read more...]
Fall 2025 Back to School Resources!
Classes are starting back up again and we've compiled a list of resources to help you get started this year! LGBTQ+ Student Rights, Advocacy and Community - Created by The Diversity Center and the Safe Schools Project of Santa Cruz County (download flyer or view below) Santa Cruz Office of Education | "Supporting LGBTQ+ Students and Families" "Our vision is for Santa Cruz County to be a model of safe and inclusive schools for all students and families and especially for LGBTQ students. The research is clear: when students feel … [Read more...]
Expand Your Mind! Teens Play D&D Spring Series, Every Sunday, April 6 to May 18th
Come break interdimensional barriers is a TTRPG campaign where Fantasy meets Reality! Pack up your gear and join us at The Diversity Center for a 6-week Fantasy DND Campaign for queer teens and youths interested in practicing social skills/bonding, mindfulness, and magical fun! Join DM Hannah Claire Becker on a new and exciting quest full of mystery, fantastic surrealism and heroism, whether you're a seasoned player or completely new to Dungeons & Dragons. A beginner-friendly, high-fantasy campaign where you'll create characters, explore … [Read more...]
SB 264 – Effort to Expand Foster Youth Financial Support
Upcoming Youth Programming @ EDI Educators
Welcome to spring! This month we're celebrating poetry, nature, and being loud and proud with the weekly Queer Youth Meet Up, two editions of Felton SAGA, and getting active and involved with Richmond Rainbow Pride. We'd love for you to join us and get your hands dirty, see some cool birds, do cool art, and express yourself! Events for all ages and new adults can be found on our calendar alongside community partner classes and programs. See you at Niji Dojo, The Neighbor's Pub, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Berkeley Public Library, and at … [Read more...]
Santa Cruz County Continues to do Work to Make Sure Queer and Trans Youth are Safe – First Annual K-14 LGBTQ+ Symposium Held March 21
On March 21 the Santa Cruz Office of Education in collaboration with Cabrillo College hosted the first annual symposium for LGBTQ+ youth in K-14. This event was designed to empower educators with the tools, knowledge, and community connections needed to create safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ students. In the News: "Educators gather in Aptos for inaugural LGBTQ+ symposium" - Santa Cruz Sentinel … [Read more...]