About Us
Beginning of Change, is a non-profit 501(c)3 that plans to use a community approach to direct LGBTQ+ youth towards confident sustainable independence. Our foundation is built on knowledge and experience within this community. We plan to guide these youth in obtaining independence and an understanding of their value and identity within a community. Within that foundation, the vision of Beginning of Change, will be to target the LGBTQ+ youth population with a residential program that supports each resident with a team of professionals to develop a plan to achieve their life goals. In addition, Beginning of Change, plans to collaborate with local colleges, universities, and trade programs to assist in career opportunities.
We understand that with this influence and pouring into this population, they learn the life and relational skills they need. Yes, they need to achieve the knowledge of a life plan with personal goals, their driver’s license, education and household maintenance but, we also understand of the greatest outcomes of independence, includes healing of hurts, forgiveness of others, the ability to build and sustain interpersonal relationships, the development of self-control, and their ability to LOVE themselves and others.
Our program is designed to have an 18-month commitment of all involved; however, we know that circumstances may dictate flexibility where and when needed. While some of our youth may continue to live out those months on-site, others may move closer to independence within a college dormitory or appropriate incremental housing.
Beginning of Change does not plan to operate as an emergency or homeless shelter. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for drug/alcohol abuse and do not allow any weapons or handguns on the premises. Participants in our program are not mandatorily placed by Child Protective Services or any courts.
Program participants are selected from an in depth application and interview process. Beginning of Change, as well as the participant, have the ability to exercise free will to sever the relationship at any time.