Q: Who is eligible to attend your Resilience Retreats and other outdoor programs?

A: Camps and retreats are open to transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, agender, gender expansive, gender-diverse, and youth who are questioning their gender identity who are between the ages of 10 and 17.

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Q: When and where do your Resilience Retreats and other programs take place?

A: Week-long Resilience Retreat programs take place during the summer and other school breaks, while other weekend Resilience Retreats take place throughout the year. Dates and locations vary from year to year. Our programs are typically held in outdoor settings at various camp facilities and retreat centers that fit our needs. Our goal is to organize camps and retreats in other locations across North America. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates.

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Q: Are your programs accessible to all income levels?

A: Yes, we are committed to ensuring financial accessibility for as many trans and gender-diverse youth as possible. We offer scholarships, airfare assistance and flexible payment options to accommodate campers with various financial circumstances, thanks to our sponsors.

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Q: How do I apply for a scholarship?

 

A: Scholarship applications can be found on our website when they become available. You'll need to provide some financial information and details about your circumstances. Our team will review applications and make selections based on need. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates.

 

Q: What safety measures are in place at your outdoor adventure programs and Resilience Retreats?

A: The safety and well-being of our campers and volunteers is our top priority! Our camp follows comprehensive safety protocols, including trained staff, medical support, and a strict anti-bullying policy to ensure a secure environment. In addition, all staff, campers, and parents are required to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in order to maintain confidentiality in regards to our program and location. Our location is only disclosed to registered participants, their parents and confirmed, carefully-screened staff after they’ve signed the NDA. All adult participants must pass a level 2 federal background check in accordance with U.S. Child Welfare Laws.

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Q: What can campers expect in terms of accommodations and amenities?

 

A: Campers stay in cabins or dorm-style accommodations. We provide nutritious meals, access to recreational activities, workshops, and support services to make their camp experience enjoyable. In warmer regions, campers can expect air conditioning (AC).

 

Q: Are there medical professionals on-site?

A: Yes, we have a team of licensed nurses and medical professionals who will be onsite for the entirety of each retreat. Our nurses each carry radios and emergency medical supplies at all times and are available to help campers and volunteers 24/7. Each family must fill out our medical form. This gives our team the ability to care best for your camper throughout the entire program. Parents and guardians can also provide any necessary medical information during registration.

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Q: What if my camper takes medications/requires specialized medical care?

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A: To ensure the safety of all program participants and volunteers, any individual staying in cabins — including volunteers — are required to give any and all medications — including over the counter medications and vitamins — to the camp nurses at check-in. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis prior to the start of camp. If you have questions or concerns regarding your camper's medical history/medications, please reach out to us at least 1 week prior to camp. We are more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have.

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Q: What types of activities and workshops are offered?

 

A: Our camp provides a wide range of activities, including outdoor adventures, team-building exercises, arts and crafts and educational workshops. Outdoor activities include archery, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, swimming, campfires and more. We also invite our TGNB counselors to share skills, hobbies, and activities that have supported them in their gender journey.

 

Q: Is there a dress code?

A: Campers are encouraged to express themselves in a way that feels comfortable to them. Closed toed shoes are required at all times except in designated areas. Please note that for safety reasons, campers and staff MUST wear proper swimwear. Campers and staff are not permitted to wear cotton t-shirts, jeans, sweatpants, and hoodies in the water as they pose serious life risks. Additionally, as we encourage safe chest binding habits such as not using ace bandages, chest binders may not be worn when swimming unless the manufacturer has indicated that it is safe to wear their products in the water. Trans tape and swimming binders are permitted to be worn both in and out of the water. Please ensure you bring things to swim in that can be safely worn in the water.

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Q: What should campers bring?

 

A: A list of recommended items and packing guidelines will be provided to registered campers in advance, covering essentials such as clothing, toiletries, and any specific items they may need for activities.

 

Q: What if my child has specific dietary restrictions or medical needs?

 

A: During the registration process, you will have the opportunity to provide information about dietary restrictions and medical needs. Our staff will work to accommodate these requirements.

 

Q: How can I stay connected with my child during their time at camp?

A: We encourage campers to focus on their camp experience during the week they are with us. Parents and guardians will be provided with regular email updates throughout camp, however they will not be able to speak directly with campers until they arrive back at camp on pickup day. Campers are not allowed to have their own personal cell phones at camp and any devices found after the start of camp will be confiscated and returned on pickup day. Campers are encouraged to leave their cell phones and other devices with their parents, or they can be turned into leadership staff at check-in. 

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Q: What happens in case of an emergency?

 

We have a comprehensive emergency plan in place, including immediate medical response and communication with parents or guardians. You will be informed of our emergency protocols during the registration process.

 

Q: How can I volunteer with your organization?

 

A: If you're interested in volunteering with Transcending Adolescence, please fill out our volunteer application on our website. We will review your application and contact you for an interview and further information.

 

Q: How can I donate to your organization or become a sponsor?

 

A: Thanks for your interest in supporting our mission! Please visit our donation and sponsorship page to learn how you can give to Transcending Adolescence. 
 

Have More Questions? We Have Answers!

 

If you have any other questions or concerns not covered on our FAQ page, please don't hesitate to contact our camp leaders. We are here to assist you and make sure your child's camping experience is safe and enjoyable.