#128 | 5 Ways Allies Can Empower LGBTQ Youth Through Mentoring, Education & Courage—Insights From 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:Receive a free excerpt and reflection guide from Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Find out what kind of ally you are!Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect [email protected] the Kind Space on PatreonBook a call! Watch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!This show explores connection, courage, and community for every concerned parent, mom, or ally navigating fear, grief, and bigotry with hope, resilience, and empathy. Through open-minded education, inclusive parenting guidance, and advocacy for mental health and safety, we support LGBTQ youth and stand for human rights and social justice. More Human. More Kind. empowers listeners to shift their mindset, embrace activism and allyship, and lead with kindness, healing, and purpose.This podcast uses the following...