LBGTQ+ YOUTH Understanding and Caring for You

Central Oregon Disability Support Network, Matthew Dawson and Shauna Signorini are teaming up to support young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer LBGTQ+ or are questioning.

Under the age of 26 and live in rural Oregon? Interested in connecting with other young people who feel like they don’t fit society’s norms on gender or sexuality? Perhaps you are questioning what your identity is? Or maybe you already identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer LGBTQ+?

Join us:

• Learn to manage stress using cool brain activities
• Find a place to share with others like yourself
• Gain resources to explore gender identity and sexuality
• First 50 will get a free Self-Care Kit

Parents and the community will be invited to a meeting in which they learn how they can help the LBGTQ young people in their lives (October 19 at 6-7 PM)

The series will end with an online resource fair (October 22 at 12-1 PM)

Register at https://www.codsn.org/lbgqproject.html

Click Here to Download Flyer

Shauna Signorini (she/her), Resilience Consultant and Trauma Trainer, grew up in rural towns. “Living in small towns can magnify the feelings of being accepted or rejected because differences are more visible in a tight knit community. Both of my children now identify as queer. When my daughter first came out, stigma was the basis of what I knew about LBGTQ issues. All I had ever wanted was for my children to be safe, healthy, happy and connected to family. Their sexuality/gender did not affect that. I am grateful for those who shared with me so I could care for my kids in the way they needed.” Shauna is a national speaker on resilience and early childhood trauma and loves working with young people.

Mathew Dawson (they/them), is a recent college graduate focusing their studies on neuroscience. Early in Matthew's life it became apparent that typical gender roles just weren't for them. Although full of bumps and turns, their path led them to develop a supportive and understanding community around them. Their degree in neuroscience allows for a deeper comprehension of the importance of brain states and how trauma can be held in the body. Matthew is particularly excited about connecting with LGBTQ+ youth and listening to their stories.