Officially Launching Hybrid Support Groups!
After thoughtful and extensive planning, the Side by Side team is excited to share that we will offer in-person support groups again beginning May 2, 2022. These meetings will use a “hybrid” format and give youth the opportunity to meet simultaneously at our Westwood Avenue center or virtually.
Our team has been researching meeting solutions, while keeping the safety and health of youth, staff and volunteers top of mind. We are committed to keeping you updated on the process and progress related to meeting in-person again.
Here is an overview of how we’re approaching the hybrid meetings:
We are using a Meeting Owl, a 360-degree camera, mic and speaker that will transmit the conversations happening in-person to Zoom.
We’ll continue to offer Zoom meetings for youth to participate in groups virtually.
For youth meeting in-person, we are encouraging vaccinations.
Youth at the facility will be required to wear a mask, except when eating. There will also be a temperature check at the door and COVID-19 rapid tests on-hand.
We will promote social distancing at the facility, and touchless hand sanitizer stations will be readily available.
All groups will offer this hybrid format beginning Monday, May 2, 6:30 pm, with our Youth of Color Support Group.
In preparation for the hybrid launch, each support group will meet once to support the staff and youth in acclimating to this model. Youth are encouraged to join us for hybrid groups on the following dates –
April 4: Youth of Color
April 12: LGBTQ+ Youth 14-20
April 20: Middle School Youth
April 28: Transgender Youth
Youth can learn more about registering for hybrid support group by visiting www.sidebysideva.org/support-groups.
Whether youth log on virtually or visit us in-person, we are committed to being a resource for the incredible LGBTQ+ young people living in Virginia. Please reply to this email or reach out to info@sidebysideva.org if you have any questions or feedback. Thank you for your ongoing support!