PRISM is our new mentoring program here at BBBSPY, which is generously funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. It is specifically designed for members of the community that identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. The program is currently under development with the goal of the program to be developed by the community, for the community. The PRISM Program will focus on fostering self-confidence, a sense of belonging, intergenerational connections, and affirming identity.
June was a busy month with many celebrations, alongside community organizations. Alongside community organizations such as MOYO Health and Community Services and York Pride, we attended celebrations to uplift, spotlight, and advocate for our 2SLGBTQIA+ Community. With many prizes to be won, our audience picked a number to answer from our Pride Trivia board and spun the wheel to find out what they won. And we can’t forget our pin making station either!
In the month of July, we began our Pride, Respect, Identity, Safety, and Mentoring (PRISM) Advisory Panel with the goal to inform the development, sustainability, and success of the new BBBSPY PRISM Program. In our first Advisory meeting, we came together to discuss the patterns in data and gaps in services provided by the PRISM Community Needs Assessment. Together, our PRISM Program Coordinator and the Panel are enthusiastic on what’s to come for all things PRISM!
Finally, we wrapped up a Pilot PRISM Program in June at a local elementary school, making space to discuss important topics for queer youth such as confidence strengthening and resilience building. From the feedback we received, we look forwards to expanding our activities in these topics!
DID YOU KNOW?
The very first PRISM Program in Canada is 9 years old.
The first PRISM Program started in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
PRISM stands for Pride, Respect, Identity, Safety, and Mentoring.
The PRISM symbol has 6 colours in it.
PRISM is now recruiting for Mentors from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, want to be part of something big? Join PRISM today!