Supporting LGBTQ Youth Certificate Program Testimonials
Please find below just a few of the testimonials from previous participants of the Supporting System-Involved LGBTQ Youth Certificate Program. Within our vast Fellows Network, we are sure to have a team that is similar to your own; please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you’d like to connect!
”The Supporting LGBTQ Youth Certificate Program covered invaluable information to address issues impacting LGBTQ youth, through informative training modules that challenged the attendees to address personal and/or professional biases, “isms”, and organizational culture. The modules were concise and easy to absorb, as well as clear, logical, and effective. There has obviously been a lot of thought and expertise put into designing the program!
But it wasn’t just about new knowledge. The main benefit came from completing thought provoking exercises, on-site Capstone Project feedback, panel discussions, and interactions with presenters, staff, and other participants. The format gave our team the confidence to implement short-and long-term goals for court-involved LGBTQ youth. We didn’t just learn “how” and “what”, but the “why” also became much clearer. We would highlight recommend this program to any team ready to improve outcomes for at-risk LGBTQ youth!”
Shanae Frazier, youthSpark; Fulton County, GA Team
”The Supporting LGBTQ Youth Certificate Program provided our state with an unparalleled opportunity to address issues impacting a very vulnerable population of youth, through the provision of informative training modules that challenged us as individuals and in our professional roles. As a stakeholder group of representatives from youth and family serving agencies, we were engaged in an open environment to learn from true experts, LGBTQ youth themselves, as well as an array of professional allies. It was a rare opportunity to be brought together in this manner, to learn and reflect on the needs of our promising youth, and to develop collaborative strategies to help Arizona evolve an affirming, respectful response to the needs of LGBTQ youth and their families.”
Arizona Team
”Attending the Certificate Program provided us with increased knowledge and awareness of the myriad of issues facing system involved LGBTQ youth as well as provided us with the information needed to better support these youth. The connections that we formed through this experience have enabled us to enhance our Capstone Project, connect with peers across the country, and ultimately, have our Capstone Project become a state-wide initiative due to the knowledge, tools and resources gained from attending this program.”
Suffolk County, New York Team
“Our team from Washington State was fortunate to be able to participate in CJJR’s Supporting LGBTQ Youth Certificate Program. The week was an amazing learning experience due to the quality of speakers and overall engaging, positive atmosphere. We were provided thought provoking exercises, as well as concrete steps to understand and better help our system involved LGBTQ youth. The ancillary learning that occurs from jurisdictions around the country greatly enhances the experience and provides valuable contacts for future efforts. We highly recommend any team or individual take the opportunity to participate.”
Washington State Team
”The tools I gained from this program made a huge impact on me and ultimately my LGBTQ clients. We serve the most damaged population of young people in society, many of whom have been trafficked and sexually exploited. The week taught me so much about heightening awareness, community building, and needed resources for the LGBTQ population.”
Sheri Combs, New Orleans, LA