Community, Education, and Empowerment: A Talk with The Point Foundation's Jorge Valencia

In this episode of Just Breathe, I welcome Jorge Valencia, Executive Director and CEO of Point Foundation. Jorge shares his journey from being raised in a Mormon family in Texas to leading prominent LGBTQ+ organizations like the Trevor Project and Point Foundation. The discussion delves into the challenges and needs of LGBTQ+ youth, focusing on the importance of community, mentoring, and educational support. Jorge emphasizes the role of voting and advocacy in protecting LGBTQ+ rights and provides resources for students and families seeking support. The episode concludes with a call to action for allies to remain active and vocal in the fight for equality.BioJorge Valencia serves as the Point Foundation’s Executive Director and CEO.  Before Point Foundation, Jorge served as Executive Director and CEO of The Trevor Project and has worked in the corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors. He brings to Point a wealth of experience in managing and growing nonprofit organizations, a proven ability to design and manage the infrastructure of expanding organizations, and extensive experience with, and sensitivity to, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth issues.Important Links from this episode:Point FoundationCampus PrideOutVoteSummary:00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:35 Meet Jorge Valencia: Background and Journey03:57 The Trevor Project: Beginnings and Impact05:20 Transition to Point Foundation08:47 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ Students11:23 Mentorship and Support Programs15:10 The Importance of Voting and Advocacy19:36 Finding Community and Support27:28 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionConnect with Heather:Join the Just Breathe Community on PatreonGive a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Join Heather's *free* Substack weekly newsletter Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop!Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone!YouTubeTikTokEmail: hh@chrysalismama.com Mentioned in this episode:PatreonLearn more about the Just Breathe Community on PatreonPatreonThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry -...

Om Podcasten

Navigating the beautiful journey of parenting an LGBTQIA+ child and supporting their unique path of love, identity, and discovery can sometimes feel like you're sailing uncharted waters—but you're not alone! Welcome to the "Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen" podcast with Heather Hester, your companion in transforming the conversation around LGBTQIA+ love, parenting, and allyship. Since 2017, when Heather’s son first came out as gay, she and her family have embarked on an emotional rollercoaster, encountering everything from heartwarming moments to serious challenges. Born from a desire to connect and support others navigating similar experiences, Heather’s show delves into the taboo topics and breaks down the stigmas surrounding the coming-out process and parenting an LGBTQIA+ teen. Join Heather as she embraces, educates, empowers, and loves, sharing her journey and heartfelt stories that resonate with families and allies alike. With episodes featuring both captivating interviews and Heather’s own reflective narratives, "Just Breathe" is a podcast in the top 1.5% globally, known for its warmth, relatability, and enlightening content. Dive into a world where every individual is celebrated, every story is heard, and no one is alone. Whether you're a parent, ally, or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, Heather’s vibrant approach invites you to embrace this journey with open arms and a loving heart. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry - https://create.blubrry.com/resources/about-blubrry/privacy-policy