Free Events for Fall and Spring 2022-2023

“A Place Where All YOUth Thrive"

A series of conversations about the developmental and social complexities of youth sexual orientation and gender identity.

FREE for all to attend at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 405 N. Saginaw Road, Midland

Dates and Focus Audiences 

Sunday, April 23, 2023, 3:00 - 5:30 p.m. – Faith Communities

Lead Presenter: Charissa Urbano, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus of Biology, Delta College

Moderated by: Rev. Jim Harrison

Focus:

• An overview of the biology of gender and sexuality.

• Gender versus sexual orientation.

• Moving away from binary thinking; how do we move from black and white to gray?

• The journey from welcoming to affirming.

• Resources, services and events will be shared. 

Promotional Materials for April Event

Press Release

Event Flyer

Events PNG Graphic

Events JPG Graphic

Sunday, November 13, 2022, 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. – Parents, Family and Friends

Lead Presenters: Heidi Knizacky, MS, LLP, Applied Research Consultants - CEO &

Amy McDonald, MA, LPC, CST, Shelterhouse - Director of Counseling and Community Advocacy

Moderated by: Jennifer Ringgold

Focus:

• An overview of the life-span development of gender and sexuality.

• Gender versus sexual orientation.

• New models and approaches to better support youth with their gender and sexual identity.

• The coming out process.

• Resources, services and events will be shared.

Thursday, October 13, 2022, 4:30 - 7:00 p.m. – Educators and School Personnel (K-12)

Lead Presenters: Heidi Knizacky, MS, LLP, Applied Research Consultants - CEO &

Amy McDonald, MA, LPC, CST, Shelterhouse - Director of Counseling and Community Advocacy

Moderated by: De'Ondre Hogan

Focus:

• An overview of the life-span development of gender and sexuality.

• Gender versus sexual orientation.

• New models and approaches to better support youth with their gender and sexual identity.

• Current statistics and surveys related to LGBTQ risks and needs will be presented.

• Resources, services and events will be shared.

Underwritten by St. John’s Episcopal Church in Midland, SOGI YAC will present workshop(s) entitled, "A Place Where All YOUth Thrive.” The workshops, designed and led by, Amy McDonald, Heidi Knizacky, and Charissa Urbano have interactive components including a Q&A session.