Family acceptance has been shown to be the greatest protective factor for transgender youth.
Educational Support Meetings
He She Ze and We meetings are designed for adult family members that would like to learn more about gender identity and how to support their transgender, nonbinary, or gender-diverse loved one. Our facilitators and attendees work together to create a safe and brave environment that is supportive and confidential. HSZW meets people wherever they are on their journey of acceptance and understanding of gender identity.
We share personal experiences and resources to help increase the knowledge and comfort level of newcomers in a small group setting. Offer virtual and in person options.
Our current meetings include:
- General Support Meeting: Central Virginia, Fredericksburg, and New River Valley
- Morning Meet Up
- Father Figures
- Interfaith Meeting
- Just Us
- Orientation
For more information about our meetings, contact us.
Family Connections
Family Connections aims to provide opportunities to gather with other families of gender-diverse, school-age children (K-12) to connect, play and build community,
Currently, Family Connections is available in three regions in Virginia: Hampton Roads, Central (Richmond and surrounding counties), and Southwest (New River Valley).
First steps to engaging with He She Ze and We
- Fill out our confidential contact form
- A team member will reach out to you via email to set up a time for a video welcome call
- One-to-one consultations
- Initial welcome call: HSZW participants report that the first conversation is essential to getting started and feeling more comfortable moving forward. During this video call, our facilitators are able to:
- Listen for understanding about each family’s unique situation
- Provide resources appropriate for the family’s needs
- Explain what to expect when attending a support & education meeting
- Make a connection to help reduce feeling overwhelmed and fearful
- Initial welcome call: HSZW participants report that the first conversation is essential to getting started and feeling more comfortable moving forward. During this video call, our facilitators are able to:
Helping you Learn how to Advocate for your Loved One:
- Resources to help you navigate changes to ensure safety and support:
- Schools
- Medical Offices
- Family and friends
- Provide specific resources for your current situation: links to videos, articles, other organizations, books, etc.
- Legal Documents: aligning legal documents to match one’s gender identity
Social Connections: Building Community
- Field Trips to live theatre and movie theatre events
- Happy Hours and Dining Out
- Occasions for specific Genders and Age Groups
- Mixed Age Socials