PROGRAMS
PROGRAMS
Linked LGBTQ+ E-Mentoring Program
Linked Virtual Mentoring
Mentors are screened and trained adults with a passion for building LGBTQ+ community and supporting LGBTQ+ youth
Few peer mentoring programs that focus specifically on LGBTQ+ youth currently exist, because of this, GSA Link is looking to help establish and develop these important peer-to-peer relationships. Growing up, LGBTQ+ youth are often exposed to violence, marginalization, alienation, and rejection from a potential variety of sources: family members, peers, teachers, strangers, and the media, based on their LGBTQ+ identities. Many LGBTQ+ youth are not in situations where they have access to LGBTQ+ folks older than them who are invested in their success, growth, and identity development.
Through virtual communication, both one-on-one and group-centered sessions, we will assist in developing mutually enjoyable connections. This variety of meeting styles will help to not only grow the connection between the pairing, but encourage the youth to interact with others in their own age group to develop multiple networks of support. The community and relationships built together may ultimately help the youth to navigate challenges they face in identity exploration, coming out, breaking down internalized messages of hate, advocating for themselves, and identifying their passions.
By emphasizing the importance of coming together as a community to support LGBTQ+ youth, the Linked LGBTQ+ Mentoring program’s goal is to connect LGBTQ+ youth with an LGBTQ+ mentor, so that the two can develop a trusting, supportive, mutually positive connection. Research on outcomes for young people engaged in mentoring relationships overwhelmingly shows benefits for both parties, including increased self-esteem, higher academic performance, and healthier relationships.
Interested in being a mentor or mentee with our Linked mentoring program? We'd love to have you!
Middle School Virtual Link Up!
At GSA Link, we are doing our part to help support social distancing. We can stay apart together through our new virtual Link Up meetings! We will continue our online meetings to keep us connected. All LGBTQ+ and allied middle school teens are invited to our Link Up! Not a member? Message us and we will help you get connected!
High School Virtual Link Up!
At GSA Link, we are doing our part to help support social distancing. We can stay apart together through our virtual Link Up meetings! We will be having meetings on Friday nights to keep us connected. LGBTQ+ and allied high school teens are invited to our Friday night Link Up! Not a member? Message us and we will help you get connected!
Little Links
Online Little Links via ZOOM! K-5th grade transgender and gender exploring kids are invited to join our incredible group of Little Links! A safe place to meet new friends, play games, and have fun! Adult facilitated with opportunities for your littles to engage with GSA Link teen mentors. Parents are welcome to join.
Parent Groups
Parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ individuals are welcome to join us for our online Parent meeting. Come to connect, give and get support, share information, and build community. With CMS Wellness as a sponsor, we have the opportunity to have a gender specialist join us to answer questions and offer guidance.
The groups meets via ZOOM the first Thursday of the month 6:30-7:30pm.
Middle School
Locations: Northboro-MA, Manchester-CT
LGBTQ+ and allied middle school teens are invited for our Middle School Link Up program! Meet new friends, enjoy some music, play games, or just come to relax. Adult Facilitated.
LGBTQ+ and allied high school teens are invited to our High School Link Up program! Meet new friends, enjoy some music, play games, or just come to relax. Adult Facilitated. This program is on hold while social distancing is in effect. Please see our online middle school group.
High School
Locations: Northboro-MA, Northampton-MA, Manchester-CT
LGBTQ+ and allied middle school teens are invited for our Middle School Link Up program! Meet new friends, enjoy some music, play games, or just come to relax. Adult Facilitated.
LGBTQ+ and allied high school teens are invited to our High School Link Up program! Meet new friends, enjoy some music, play games, or just come to relax. Adult Facilitated.
This program is on hold while social distancing is in effect. Please see our online high school group.
Parent Groups
Parents and caregivers of transgender and gender-exploring individuals are welcome to join us for our Parent Link-Up. Come to connect, give and get support, share information, and build community. With CMS Wellness as a sponsor, we have the opportunity to have a gender specialist join us to answer questions and offer guidance.
The group will meet the first Thursday of every month from 6:30-8:00pm. We would like to thank CMS Wellness for sponsoring GSA Link’s Parent Link-Up.
This program is on hold while social distancing is in effect. Please see our online parent group.