It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, teacher, student, or a very involved guncle, back to school can be a very stressful time. That’s especially true for LGBTQ students and allies at this moment in Florida.
With “Don’t Say Gay,” book bans, and attempts to force schools to out students, anxiety is running high.
“Back-to-School is indeed a thrilling yet nerve-wracking time for many families,” SunServe CEO Tony Lima said.
With that in mind, SunServe is holding a pair of events to help families through the start of the school year and have a lot of fun.
The first event is Navigating Challenges: A Back-To-School Strategies & Resources Event on Aug. 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Center For Spiritual Living at 4849 N. Dixie Hwy. A panel of experts, educators, and experienced parents will discuss strategies for successfully navigating the school year.
One of those experts is Liz Morales, the vice chair for Safe Schools South Florida.
“The event is vital to spread awareness for our LGBTQ+ youth and ensures our youth that they are not alone,” the educator said. “Former students have received services from SunServe and I was interested in the organization because they provide mental health services for all.”
Lima says events like this are a great tool.
“At our Navigating Challenges event, participants can expect to find a compassionate community ready to share real-life insights, practical strategies, and invaluable resources. Our goal is to help ease some of the anxieties some folks are experiencing.”
The real fun begins two days later at the Back To School Carnival. Set for Aug. 18, from 4-8 p.m. at Sunshine Cathedral, the carnival will be an inclusive environment for students of all ages.
“We've got everything from games and prizes to entertainment that's sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages,” Lima said.
He’s also getting in the center of the action.
“Yes, you heard right, some of our brave staff members, myself included, will be taking the plunge in the dunk tank!”
Lima and SunServe hope these events will be the starting point of a continuing relationship with LGBTQ students and allies. Mental health and youth services are just two of the important programs they run all year around.
“Our hope is to foster a community where students and parents can continually find support, information, and encouragement. By connecting people with the entirety of SunServe.”
For more information on the events, visit SunServe.org/school and SunServe.org/BTS.
