Queer Initiatives

Dedicated programs for 2SLGBTQIA+, gender nonbinary and gender nonconforming youth

Low-Cost Affirming Therapy
What We Offer

A Healthier, Happier You is Within Reach

Trellis’ diverse team of counsellors and therapists are here to support you in overcoming life’s obstacles and flourishing.

We offer therapy for 2SLGBTQIA+, gender nonbinary and gender nonconforming youth and families.

Cost varies depending on the type of session, therapist designation, and personal life factors. Connect with us today to determine your session cost.

Home Fire

Interested in Therapy Support?

Trellis offers therapy for 2SLGBTQIA+, gender nonbinary and gender nonconforming youth and families.

Therapy is also available for anyone age 4 and up in individual, intimate relationships and family sessions.

To access our Therapy services, please fill out the referral form linked below.

Referral Form

Aura
what we offer

Finding the Right Home

Aura is a housing-first program for 2SLGBTQIA+, gender nonbinary and gender nonconforming youth ages 14 to 24 who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness.

Aura helps youth find appropriate housing where their gender identity and / or sexual orientation is respected and celebrated.

At Aura, youth receive the necessary support, resources and services to develop life skills, build and foster natural supports, grow towards physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing while growing into adulthood and independence.

aura
Registration

Interested in Aura?

Youth must complete an assessment to be eligible for Aura.

Community referrals are not accepted.

Program Information

participants
2SLGBTQIA+ identifying youth ages 14-24
Iris Place
what we offer

Supportive Housing for 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth

Iris Place is a supportive living program that offers a safe, welcoming home for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

More than just housing, Iris Place is a place to grow. Youth live alongside peers and a supportive roommate, building community while developing life skills and confidence for what’s next.

With a focus on connection, stability and belonging, residents are supported in ways that reflect who they are and what they need.

What we offer:

  • Safe, affirming housing
  • Life skills development
  • One-on-one and wraparound supports
  • Peer connection and community
  • Supportive roommate model

Interested in Iris Place?

Connect with our Housing Liaison team at housing@growwithtrellis.ca.

pride parade 2024
Iiyika’kimaat
What We Offer

Encouraging Belonging and Inclusion for Youth

Iiyika’kimaat is a Blackfoot word meaning, “to try hard.” The name was gifted to the organization after consultation with Elder Pete Standing Alone from the Blood tribe and Elder Margaret Plain Eagle from the Piikani Nation.

Iiyika’kimaat provides Indigenous youth, ages 12 to 21, an opportunity to reach their full potentially through culturally-relevant and leadership specific components and activities. A key focus of the program is to encourage a youth’s sense of belonging and social inclusion from an Indigenous worldview by using a strength-based approach to support the youth’s achievements, provide motivation, enhance school engagement, and develop a positive view of their personal future.

Using the Circle of Courage framework, a variety of cultural, recreational and informal opportunities are incorporated into the program with the intent to provide a positive outlet for youth to explore their true potential.

Each month our programming activities are based on five core pillars that highlight essential aspects of reconnecting with Indigenous culture and fostering youth development. These are traditional learning, land-based teaching, well-being, expanding possibilities and kinship connections.

iiyikakimaat
registration

Interested in the Iiyika’kimaat Program?

Email us to learn more about the program or sign-up.

Email Us

Program Information

Youth Programming
What WE offer

Activities and Programs for Youth

Program offerings include:

  • Cooking Club
  • Teen Hangout
  • Art & Recreation Nights
  • Game and Movie Nights
  • Learn Life Skills
  • Homework Club
  • Field Trips
  • Volunteering
  • Leadership Opportunities
children and youth
Registration

Interested in Group Programming?

Please fill out the following form and email it to us along with programs you would like to attend.

Program Information

participants
Ages 12-24
location-icon
Program locations vary. Reach out for current programming.
All In For Youth
what we offer

School Support

All In For Youth (AIFY) helps youthstay engaged in their education and be successful in school.

All In For Youth Success Coaches give students the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with a diverse group of supportive adults. Through case management, coaching, and mentorship, Success Coaches and students set and work toward common goals.

Operating in 13 schools across the Calgary Board of Education, All In For Youth Success Coaches support students by identifying, navigating, and/or removing barriers to school completion, ensuring access to basic needs, addressing academic needs, and connecting to other physical and emotional supports. Success Coaches also support students in connecting to post-secondary and employment resources and funding opportunities.

Coaches work alongside United Way partners, community supports, school administration, and counsellors, as well as student learning teams to identify students who might require AIFY supports in helping them find the best path forward.

Schools that offer All In For Youth:

  • Bowness High School
  • Central Memorial High School
  • Henry Wise Wood High School
  • Centennial High School
  • Crescent Heights High School
  • Forest Lawn High School
  • Jack James High School
  • James Fowler High School
  • John Diefenbaker High School
  • Lester B. Pearson High School
  • Lord Beaverbrook High School
  • Nelson Mandela High School
  • North Trail High School
all in for youth
Registration

Interested in All In For Youth?

Connect with the administration team or guidance counselor at participating schools.

Program Information

Eligibility

participants
Youth ages 15-20 years attending school at participating locations