I'm looking for resources. Can you guys help?

Yes. District 202 has a large list of resources through our connections with our community partners. Each of our community partners is an organization we trust and you can view the complete resource list here. In addition to resources we also offer a variety of programs and events that offer opportunities to gain skills, meet new friends and build community. Soon, we will also have an online social network you can be a part of and a chat function that will allow you to speak to an operator one-on-one over a secure, anonymous internet connection.

Do you offer any help in getting a job or getting back in school?

District 202 offers a variety of programs that can help you build life skills such as financial management or resume writing, as well as make programs that help you express yourself and build connections with friends and community. To see our list of programs click here.

How do I get more involved with the LGBT community?

District 202 offers many ways in which you can connect with people your own age as well as get involved with a variety of community organizations. By taking part in one of our programs or events. You can also view a list of upcoming community events by looking at our calendar located on our home page.

I think my child is gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender, what do I do?

This is a very common question parents face. The first thing to do, is support your child and know that this is not a something they can change. Too often, people are not supported in their sexual or gender identity and too often relationships in friends and family are strained causing the people involved to feel isolated from each other. The other thing to know is that neither you or your child are alone in this and many families have gone through this change only to realize that they’re still your child and you are still their parents.

How can I best support my gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender child?

The best thing you can do is listen. Let them tell you what they’re going through and if you feel like you don’t have the answers, being a supportive ear is sometimes the best thing you can do for someone. Also, you’ll probably find that at some point you’ll want to tell the rest of your extended family. This can often be a hard or scary time (much like when your child came out to you!), but only you will know the best way to speak to the rest of your family. A supportive environment can be the best thing in combating feelings of isolation that are often associated with someone who first “comes out”.

Where can I learn more or meet other parents of gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender children?

PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) is an amazing, nationwide organization that supports parents of gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender children. They hold monthly meetings that offer an opportunity for parents to speak with other parents and gain support. They have an amazing Twin Cities’ chapter you can find here.

I know an underage young person that is being harassed/abused. What should I do?

Have a conversation with the person to get the background information on what is going on. Be supportive and listen to them, see if this is a situation where they would like your support. Offer to advocate for them to anybody who may be able to make a difference in the situation (i.e principle, teacher, parent, etc.).

My local school/church/community group is looking for LGBT training. What resources are there?

District 202 is home to an amazing Speakers Bureau Program that offers your local school/church/community group a safe, non-threatening way to educate your members on the day-to-day life of being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Our speakers are youth who authentically share their lives with your members. Often times, people’s stories are the best education when it comes to LGBT issues. There is also a time for Q&A after the presentation. For more information or to request a presentation, email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

An LGBT youth just came out to me, how can I best support them?

The best thing you can do is listen. Having a supportive ear can often make the difference in someone’s feelings of self-worth and prevent feelings of isolation often associated with “coming out”. You can also point them towards are programs and events as a way to meet people and get involved with peers, as well as looking at the calendar on our home page for community events.