April 2023 Newsletter
To our Kaleidoscope community,
We hope you and your families have had a wonderful month! As we head into spring and even look ahead into summer, we are looking forward to growing Kaleidoscope’s programs and offerings in 2023. We’re excited to be partnering with LA Parent Magazine for the 10th Annual Special Needs Resource Fair on April 30th. We invite you to learn more about Kaleidoscope’s specialization in the unique intersection of neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ identities, and the services and programs we offer that support this population of young people.
Kaleidoscope recognizes National Day of Silence on April 14th, a day that aims to create awareness among middle schoolers, high schoolers, and college students against the discrimination and bullying of the LGBTQ community. Leo Kirkham explores the history and purpose of this day in depth in their most recent blog post.
Lastly, we invite you to follow us on social media and keep current on our clubs and groups meetings as well as special events. Please comment, share, and tag your friends, as we celebrate all things LGBTQIA+ on Instagram @kaleidoscopelgbtq, and follow us on Facebook at KaleidoscopeLGBTQ.
Wishing you a safe and healthy beginning of Spring!
-The Kaleidoscope Team
Jay Baldwin
Program Navigator
They/Them
jbaldwin@thehelpgroup.org
Leo Kirkham
Program Coordinator
They/Them
lkirkham@thehelpgroup.org
Laurie Stephens, Ph.D. PSY 18520
Sr. Director, Autism & LGBTQ+ Programs
She/Her/Hers
lstephens@thehelpgroup.org
* For general inquiries, contact us at kaleidoscope@thehelpgroup.org
We all remember – or for some of us, currently experience – how cruel kids can be in school. Bullying is a major problem for students who are marginalized in some way, whether it’s kids of color experiencing racism, disabled children experiencing ableism, or LGBTQ kids experiencing homophobia and transphobia.
Special Needs Resource Fair
Sunday, April 30 | 11am – 2pm PT
Join The Help Group and LA Parent Magazine at the Special Needs Resource Fair and enjoy children’s activities, food, and family fun as you discover the wonderful resources that L.A. has to offer its special needs community. Learn about life skills coaching, therapeutic services, financial & estate planning, vocational programs & more. Free admission!
Upcoming LGBTQIA+ Events, Services & More
Mental Health Services
Kaleidoscope offers individual & group therapy as well as psychiatric care in a safe & affirming environment at affordable rates. We accept insurance, Medi-cal, and offer sliding-scale rates based upon annual income. Contact us to learn more.
Individual Coaching
Coaching available for LGBTQIA+ youth & young adults who need assistance with identifying goals, taking next steps, & establishing healthy connections in community settings. Contact us to learn more.
Training & Presentations
We offer training, education & presentations to parents, administrators, and the community to provide LGBTQIA+ youth with the affirming support that they need to thrive. Contact us to learn more.
Other Programs at The Help Group
Upcoming Webcast:
Traditional vs. Specialized Camps: Which is Better for Kids with Autism?
DATE: April 12th
TIME: 10 – 11 am
Your child has just been given the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The important thing to know is that the diagnosis does not close any doors to your child’s future. In this webcast, we will review the first steps to educating yourself about the diagnosis, learn about strength-based approaches to your child’s needs, and discuss available services and resources for you and your child.
In Case You Missed It
My Child Was Diagnosed with Autism. Now What?
Your child has just been given the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For some, the news comes as a shock, while others may have been expecting it. The important thing to know is that the diagnosis does not close any doors to your child’s future.
ABOUT KALEIDOSCOPE:
Kaleidoscope’s mission is to provide services and supports for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults to help each person realize their unique and full potential. We focus on mental health services, family training and support, forming strong social connections, finding allies and developing critically needed life and coping skills. Kaleidoscope hopes to pave the way to self, family and community acceptance, resilience and care needed for LGBTQ+ folks to thrive.
Copyright © *2023* *The Help Group, All rights reserved