Welcome to Essie's Place
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About Us
Embracing Diversity, Enriching Lives
Our Purpose:
To address and prevent problems faced by members of the LGBTIQ2SA+ community and their families in the Shuswap Region of British Columbia by:
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Our Mission:
Conducting research and using the findings to decide on areas in the LGBTIQ2SA+ community that require improvement.
Organizing workshops on topics related to LGBTIQ2SA+.
Providing access to counselling, mentoring and other support services such as referrals to community groups and programs.
To undertake activities ancillary and incidental to the attainment of the above-mentioned charitable purposes.
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Essie's Place is committed to providing essential services, support, and resources tailored to the unique needs of the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. We work tirelessly to address the challenges and barriers faced by individuals and families, aiming to create a more equitable and inclusive society. Our key activities include:
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Affirming Therapy Pilot: We have launched an Affirming Therapy Pilot that offers specialized mental health counseling services by LGBTQ2SIA+ therapists, specifically designed to meet the needs of LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals and their families. This pilot program provides a safe and understanding space for individuals to address their mental health concerns, navigate challenges, and cultivate personal growth.
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Community Partnerships: We have established strategic partnerships with various safe spaces in the Shuswap region, including Brother's Pub in Sicamous, United Church in Sicamous, United Church in Salmon Arm, Sorrento Centre, and Canooligans. These partnerships enable us to expand our reach, collaborate on initiatives, and provide a network of support and resources for the LGBTQ2SIA+ community.
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Diversity Festival and Events: Essie's Place organizes a year-long Diversity Festival in and around the Shuswap region. This festival aims to raise awareness about Essie's Place and LGBTQ2SIA+ issues while fostering connections among community members, resources, and safe spaces. Additionally, we host various events throughout the year, including the highly anticipated Big Gay BBQ, which brings together LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals, their families, and allies for a day of celebration and community-building.
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Advocacy and Support Services: We actively advocate for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals and their families. We provide guidance, resources, and support in areas such as healthcare access, legal rights, employment, and social services, striving to empower individuals to navigate systems and overcome systemic barriers.
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Our Values
At Essie's Place, we are guided by the following values:
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Inclusivity: We believe in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where all LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals and their families are embraced, respected, and celebrated for their authentic selves.
Empowerment: We are dedicated to empowering LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals to live their lives authentically and confidently. Through our programs and services, we strive to provide the tools, knowledge, and resources necessary for personal growth and self-advocacy.
Collaboration: We recognize that meaningful change is best achieved through collaboration and partnerships. By working together with other organizations, community leaders, and allies, we can create a stronger, more united support network for the LGBTQ2SIA+ community.
Equity and Social Justice: We are committed to promoting equity, social justice, and the dismantling of discriminatory systems. We strive for a society where LGBTQ2SIA+ individuals and their families can live with dignity, free from discrimination and prejudice.
Services
At Essie's Place, we are proud to offer a range of impactful services that cater to the diverse needs of the LGBTIQ2SA+ community and their families in the Shuswap Region of British Columbia.
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We are dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can access quality services that cater to their unique needs. Whether it's through therapy, sexual health support, or engaging events, our aim is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives while building a stronger and more informed community together.
Our services include:
Our partnership with Our Landing Place brings you the Affirming Therapy Pilot. This program provides access to specialized therapy services that are tailored to the unique experiences and challenges faced by the LGBTIQ2SA+ community. Our dedicated therapists offer a safe and welcoming space where individuals can explore their feelings, discuss their concerns, and receive personalized guidance to promote mental and emotional well-being.
Through collaboration with HIM and Interior Health, we present the GBQ+ and Gender Diverse STI Popup Clinics. These clinics provide a vital service by offering accessible and judgment-free sexual health support to gay, bisexual, queer, and gender-diverse individuals. Our clinics aim to enhance sexual health awareness, provide testing and treatment, and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual well-being.
Our dynamic events and workshops are designed to build understanding, awareness, and acceptance within the community. These gatherings serve as opportunities for education, discussion, and connection. Covering a wide range of topics, from mental health and self-care to legal rights and social issues, our events and workshops provide a platform for individuals to learn, grow, and engage with their peers.
Upcoming Events
Our LGBTQ2SIA+ Non-Profit is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering events for our community. We are currently planning a range of events for the future, including workshops, movie screenings, lectures, and guest speakers. We also host social gatherings, which provide a safe and welcoming space for our members to connect with one another. Keep an eye on our website for updates about upcoming events and how to get involved.