Networks

Part of our work at Kind Space is building partnerships and participating on or leading local, provincial, or federal networks on issues related to 2SLGBTQ+ identities and experiences.

Below is a snapshot of some of the external work we do.

Rainbow Service Providers Network

Status: Active, co-chair

Description: Founded in 2002, we envision a safe community with equal access to all services for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, including children, youth, and families.

  • We are a network of LGBTQ+ community agencies who support the development of fellow agencies, schools, families, and communities that are safe and inclusive, and celebrate diversity and equity.
  • We exist to facilitate the sharing of information and resources between LGBTQ+ agencies.
  • Our network serves as a hub of communication between LGBTQ+ agencies and collaboration in advocating on behalf of common causes.
  • We strive to work collaboratively to support each other in responding to systemic barriers including heterosexism, cissexism, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in the lives of Ottawa area communities.
  • The focus of our discussions is to address systemic barriers with the goal of promoting personal, interpersonal, organizational, and societal change.

The RSPN meets on the second Monday of the month from 1-3pm at Kind Space. Email Carling@kindspace.ca if your agency is interested in participating in the network.

To learn more, go here: www.kindspace.ca/rspn

Rainbow Youth Forum

Status: Active, co-chair

Description: The Rainbow Youth Forum is held in collaboration between the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Rainbow Service Provider’s Network, which is a network of community agencies who promote inclusive services for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Questioning, Two- Spirit (LGBTQ2S+) youth. This collaborative initiative is aligned with our efforts to embed exit outcomes, cultural proficiency,  and character education into our daily practices.

To learn more, go here: https://ocdsb.ca/our_schools/inclusive__safe_and_caring_schools/inclusive_education/rainbow_youth_forum

Unsafe At Home Ottawa

Status: Active, educational partner

Description: Unsafe at Home Ottawa is a secure text and online chat service for women and members of LGBTQ2S+ communities in Ottawa and Lanark County who may be living through increased violence and abuse at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our personnel provides emotional support, practical advice and referrals using encrypted technology so conversations are confidential and secure.

We can help you:

  • Talk about how you’re feeling
  • Create a safety plan to reduce your risk of harm
  • Get you the services you need for support
  • Cope with your situation during this period of physical distancing