FAQ

Gender

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 2SLGBTQIA+ stand for?

Is an acronym used to signify two-spirited, lesbian, gay, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and others under the "queer" umbrella collectively. If you're interested in learning more about 2SLGBTQIA+ vocabulary, visit The Canadian Centre for Gender + Sexual Diversity's handy terminology consolidation.

Do you have a list of 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly businesses in Ottawa?

We don't, but Dapper & Daring do and it's incredible. Make sure to visit their site and check out the businesses they support.

Will youth be safe attending?

Yes, we take many measures to ensure that the youth drop-in is a safe space. Participation in the space is caveated by an acceptance of our SAFE Guidelines. These guidelines include respecting consent and boundaries, not using racist, sexist, transphobic, homophobic or ableist language and ensuring that the space is free from any forms of violence, harassment and bullying. The youth space and drop-ins are also alcohol- and drug-free spaces, meaning that substances cannot be used before or during accessing the space. Finally, we provide bus tickets to make sure that the youth can get home afterwards.

For Youth

What is Centre33?

Centre33 is a community center for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (ages 12-17) of all genders, races, heritages, (dis)abilities, and class backgrounds.

What do you do?

We offer a variety of programs and services, in addition to drop-in hours, a queer library, health advocacy, housing support, peer-support and more. You can learn about our upcoming events, community partners and programming here. 

Are you confidential?

Yes. All participants need to review and sign a consent form indicating that what is shared and who is seen inside the center will remain confidential. You can review our SAFE Guidelines (Safety Awareness For Everyone) beforehand. If you have any questions and/or fears, please reach out to us at kanatacentre33@outlook.com

How do I sign-up for drop-in?

Just show up during our drop-in hours! We ask that all folx sign in, this is kept confidential. If it is your first time attending, one of our staff will take you through our SAFE Guidelines and ask for your emergency contact information (so make sure to bring this with you!). In the future, you'll just need to sign-in when attending, no need for all the other stuff.

I don't have I.D. Can I still attend and use your services?

Yes, you can.

What kind of rules are youth expected to follow?

Everyone is expected to follow our SAFE Guidelines, including staff and volunteers. If these guidelines cannot be followed for whatever reason, a staff member will chat with you and if necessary, may ask you to leave the centre.

I heard that your temporary space is in a church, are you a religious organization?

No, we’re not a religious organization. While we wait for our forever home to be ready (fingers crossed this will be early summer) we can be found in the back left room of Kanata United Church at 33 Leacock Drive in Kanata. Come in through the front door and walk all the way to the end of the hall, we are on the left - you can’t miss us! 

Do I need my guardian’s permission to attend?

No. In Ontario, youth are capable of providing their own consent so long as they understand the information shared with them.

Can I invite friends?

Yes, so long as they are between 12-17 years old. Allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community are always welcome. 

Do I have to pay anything to attend?

All of our programs are free.

Do you provide counselling?

We don't, however, we can help in a crisis, provide resource referrals, peer-support and respectful listening.

I need help right now, who can I contact?

If you are in danger call 911. In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital.

If this is not an emergency, contact YSB's  24/7 Crisis Line.  A caring professional will listen and provide immediate help.

Can you provide bus tickets to get to your centre?

Yes!

Can someone help me with my homework assignments?

Of course!

For Parents, Carers & Family Members

Who can I contact if I have a problem or question?

You can reach out to our director at directorcentre33@outlook.com. We cannot provide you with specific information related to your child’s participation as we are confidential, but we are happy to answer questions regarding safety and programming.

What are you doing for COVID-19 safety?

We are following all of the guidelines provided by Ottawa Public Health and will continue to monitor their recommendations. Vaccine verification is required of all staff and volunteers. 

Can I attend with my child?

We are not able to welcome adults to our drop-in hours. There may be youth who are not yet “out” or who are keeping their identity from others and that needs to be respected. We will have lots of programming that you can attend and some designed specifically for caregivers in the future. Follow us on socials to stay in the loop!


Can youth sign-in to drop-in hours alone?

Yes, just make sure they have emergency contact information with them!

What resources can I access to support my own mental health as a parent or caregiver of a queer youth?

We'll reveal our family programming early summer 2023. If you need support, please reach out to Pflag Canada.


Centre33, 2SLGBTQIA+ Kanata Ottawa, Children Youth Support

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