Outrighters,
It’s that time of year! The time when we reflect on our accomplishments, map out the coming year, and connect with you – our supporters. Many thanks to all of you who have given your time, energy, wisdom, and yes, money, this past year.
The pandemic tried to defeat us, but we are still here. We are ready to resume in-person meetings in January 2022, continuing to offer a variety of activities for LGBTQ+ youth: Discord Chat Space, Game Night, and Friday Night. Our Parent’s support group is thriving. And our Board continues to support me in the hard work of balancing the accessibility of online services with the need for real, in-person connections.
A major accomplishment this year was hiring a part-time Program Director. Roula Giokas began this fall and has already had a huge impact on the organization. She brings experience, enthusiasm, and professionalism to everything she does. Roula is already working to expand our programming to better meet the needs of our LGBTQ+ kids, while at the same time freeing my time to focus on financial stability and fulfilling other long-term strategic goals.
Finally, I’m pleased to announce that we are currently cementing a formal partnership with Seacoast Mental Health Center, Inc. to offer individual therapy to our LGBTQ+ youth, in consultation with a private practitioner specializing in this field. This addresses a longtime frustration with the limited number of youth counselors, long wait lists, and lack of expertise in the community. We’re thrilled to take this giant step forward in meeting a deep and growing need.
Please be sure to visit our website at www.seacoastoutright.org to see what we’re up to: you’ll find staff and board bios, a Seacoast Outright History page, photos from our October PRIDE event, and an expanded Resource page.
And of course, please continue to show your love and support of our LGBTQ+ kids with a generous financial contribution to Seacoast Outright. Donate online at www.seacoastoutright.org or go old school with a check. You Be You!
With much gratitude,
Hershey Hirschkop, Executive Director