Ally & Community Education

“The HSZ&W training will encourage us to be mindful about those small things we say or do that have impact (positive or negative) on others. I hope that the training will help me be a better ally and friend.” – Training Attendee

We offer training for businesses, schools, agencies, and community groups that would like to expand their knowledge about gender identity and learn ways to provide a more welcoming, inclusive environment to Transgender and Nonbinary individuals. 

Topics We Cover

  • The difference between gender identity versus sexual orientation
  • Foundational terms and definitions
  • Gender diversity across time and cultures
  • The challenges of the community
  • Risk factors & Protective factors
  • Best practices through a gender lens
  • How to support Transgender students, staff, and clients
  • How to become an ally–every action makes a difference

Virtual or In-Person

  • 50-60 min – works well for virtual  
  • 75-90 min – recommended to allow a relaxed flow and time for Q&A
  • 2-2.5 hour workshop – recommended for maximum engagement with participants

HSZ&W also offers a 25-30 min introduction to our organization and services to corporate business resource groups, faith groups, etc.

Learn More…

HSZ&W’s training is a fee-based service and varies depending on many aspects of your training i.e. timing, location, size of audience, prep time, and budget. Our staff will create a program that will fit your goals and needs. 

If you are considering bringing training to your workplace or community, please fill out this form and set up a virtual meeting with our Executive Director, Shannon McKay. 

Click here to fill out our form

Who We Have Trained

CORPORATIONS & BUSINESSES

  • Capital One
  • Bank of America
  • Altria
  • Dominion Energy
  • Orasure
  • Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens
  • Day & Zimmermann

SCHOOLS

  • Albemarle County Public Schools
  • Trauma Informed Schools Committee – Richmond City Schools
  • Sabot School
  • VCU School of Medicine
  • Charlottesville Elementary School
  • The Circle School
  • International School of Charlottesville
  • Good Shepherd Episcopal School
  • Tuckahoe Montessori School
  • Trinity Episcopal Schools
  • Charlottesville City Schools
  • Tidewater School Social Worker Conference
  • Radford University, College of Education and Human Development
  • Virginia Tech Transportation Institute
  • Virginia Tech Library Services

AGENCIES & PROVIDERS

  • Foothills Child Advocacy Center
  • TeleMental Health Initiative, TIES
  • Henrico County Mental Health and Development Services
  • HOME of VA
  • SCAN
  • Healing Sounds RVA
  • UMFS
  • Children’s Advocacy Centers of VA
  • Virginia Association for Infant Mental Health
  • Virginia Institute of Marine Science
  • Williamsburg Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • National Radio Astronomy Observatory

GOVERNMENT

  • Prince William County Government
  • Henrico County Social Services

FAITH GROUPS

  • Or Ami Congregation
  • Unitarian Universalist Congregation – Blacksburg, VA
  • Fredericksburg Methodist Church

Testimonials

The session deepened our understanding of inclusivity, pronouns, and how to create a welcoming environment for everyone we serve. Thank you for guiding us on this important journey toward equity and respect!

– Foothills Child Advocacy Center

“I loved hearing their stories! I cried, I laughed and they fueled my fire to continue to protect trans rights and youth! As a cis person I take so much for granted and it is so helpful to hear their perspectives and open my eyes to how I can create a safer and more positive environment for them.”

– VCU School Of Medicine Panel Discussion Attendee