The Boston-based Fenway Institute is reaching out to families of color through a new program called the Engaging Parents Project and is seeking participants for a mutually beneficial study: the parents gain support and learn positive ways to engage with their LGBTQ children while the Fenway learns how to better serve the community we share.
According to a recent Fenway Focus press release:
“The goal of the Engaging Parents Project is to talk with parents about their feelings and experiences about parenting a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning youth of color. The Project team is interested in talking with parents who are at all stages of acceptance – those that are comfortable, as well as those who are struggling with their child’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
‘When parents are uncomfortable with their children being LGBT, or in unchartered territory, the whole family can end up feeling isolated and stressed.’ said Kerith Conron, Research Scientist at The Fenway Institute. ‘We believe that if parents have more opportunities and resources for support, it will benefit parents, youth, and the whole family.’
Participants are eligible if their child is 13-17 and is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or uncertain about their sexual orientation or gender. Eligible parents receive $50 for participation in a one-hour confidential research interview. For details call or text (617) 804-5436 or e-mail parent@fenwayhealth.org.
