All Programs
The Women’s Initiative offers a variety of programs, groups, and workshops to help support mental health in our communities.
view our programs by type
Queer Theory Book Club
Join us for our quarterly Queer Theory Book Club! This session will focus on Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza by Gloria Anzaldúa. Together, we will explore influential works of queer theory and reflect on how these ideas shape queer identity and community today. Each gathering offers lively discussion in a space that encourages curiosity, learning, and meaningful connection. Plain-language summaries of the text will be shared with registrants ahead of time, and a limited number of books will be available to borrow from the front desk. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Somos Medicina: Bienestar Women’s Circle
Thursdays, July 30 and September 24
Your community sustains you. Your community heals you. Your community is medicine. Bienestar invites you to a space of connection, creativity, and community. In this monthly women's circle, we will share stories, create art, and participate in other fun activities, with the common goal of connecting through our culture. We are not alone; we are together. This will be a bilingual space. Spanish-speaking and English-speaking Latinas are welcome to attend.Facilitated by Karina Monroy, ATR-P, Resident in Counseling.
To register for this group, email bienestar@thewomensinitiative.org.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 7
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Healing in the Garden
Join us in the garden to discover or rediscover the healing power of planting and harvesting. We’ll make connections between gardening, our mental health, and the health of our community. Women who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) 18 and older are invited to attend. Led by Tianna Jordan, MS and Cultivate Charlottesville.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning July 14
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and H Peterson.
Click here to register.
Somos Medicina: Bienestar Women’s Circle
Thursdays, July 30 and September 24
Your community sustains you. Your community heals you. Your community is medicine. Bienestar invites you to a space of connection, creativity, and community. In this monthly women's circle, we will share stories, create art, and participate in other fun activities, with the common goal of connecting through our culture. We are not alone; we are together. This will be a bilingual space. Spanish-speaking and English-speaking Latinas are welcome to attend.Facilitated by Karina Monroy, ATR-P, Resident in Counseling.
To register for this group, email bienestar@thewomensinitiative.org.
Queer Theory Book Club
Join us for our quarterly Queer Theory Book Club! This session will focus on The Queer Art of Failure by Jack Halberstam. Together, we will explore influential works of queer theory and reflect on how these ideas shape queer identity and community today. Each gathering offers lively discussion in a space that encourages curiosity, learning, and meaningful connection. Plain-language summaries of the text will be shared with registrants ahead of time, and a limited number of books will be available to borrow from the front desk. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 14
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 14
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 14
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Writing for Healing
Wednesdays, April 8 and 22
Your story matters. Women and members of the gender-expansive community are invited to join 2024 Challenge Into Change author Samman Akbarzada for a two-part writing workshop series. Samman will share inspirational writing examples to spark creativity, self-expression, and reflection. Following a group discussion, participants will have time for writing, with optional writing prompts available to support the process. Bring your voice, whether through prose, poetry, or another form, and join us in a space that celebrates healing through story. Facilitated by Samman Akbarzada.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 14
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Writing for Healing
Wednesdays, April 8 and 22
Your story matters. Women and members of the gender-expansive community are invited to join 2024 Challenge Into Change author Samman Akbarzada for a two-part writing workshop series. Samman will share inspirational writing examples to spark creativity, self-expression, and reflection. Following a group discussion, participants will have time for writing, with optional writing prompts available to support the process. Bring your voice, whether through prose, poetry, or another form, and join us in a space that celebrates healing through story. Facilitated by Samman Akbarzada.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning April 7, not meeting June 16
Every other week, we will gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Laura Haney.
Click here to register.
Reawakening With Nature
Thursdays, March 5–26
As we move toward spring, this series offers a nurturing space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Together, we’ll take gentle walks, practice somatic awareness, and pause for breathwork and reflection. These afternoons are an invitation to notice, soften, and be supported by the season’s slow reawakening. Come as you are. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Reawakening With Nature
Thursdays, March 5–26
As we move toward spring, this series offers a nurturing space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Together, we’ll take gentle walks, practice somatic awareness, and pause for breathwork and reflection. These afternoons are an invitation to notice, soften, and be supported by the season’s slow reawakening. Come as you are. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Reawakening With Nature
Thursdays, March 5–26
As we move toward spring, this series offers a nurturing space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Together, we’ll take gentle walks, practice somatic awareness, and pause for breathwork and reflection. These afternoons are an invitation to notice, soften, and be supported by the season’s slow reawakening. Come as you are. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Reawakening With Nature
Thursdays, March 5–26
As we move toward spring, this series offers a nurturing space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Together, we’ll take gentle walks, practice somatic awareness, and pause for breathwork and reflection. These afternoons are an invitation to notice, soften, and be supported by the season’s slow reawakening. Come as you are. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Cozy Crafting With Cobb
Join Elizabeth Cobb for an evening of arts, crafts, and connection. Settle into winter and interrupt your busy routine for some warmth and creativity as a form of self-care. No prior artistic experience is necessary. All arts and crafts materials will be provided. Women and members of the gender-expansive community 18 and older are invited to attend. Women and members of the gender-expansive community 18 and older are invited to attend. Led by Elizabeth Cobb, LCSW.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Biweekly on Tuesdays, beginning January 13
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Alethea Burns.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Biweekly on Wednesdays, beginning January 7
Gather at TWI for queer companionship, connection, and fun. Each session features a different type of “parallel play” to facilitate easy socializing and learn new creative skills. Past sessions have featured adult coloring, game night, art night, and a journaling night. Led by Hyacinth Bellerose and Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Queer History Club
Fall schedule: Tuesdays, Oct 7 & 21, Nov 4 & 18, Dec 2 & 16
Explore and celebrate the diverse tapestry of queer history with Queer History Club, a biweekly program dedicated to delving into significant moments and figures from queer history around the world. Each session will feature a discussion of a different type of media, including podcasts, book chapters, and documentaries, to cater to different learning styles and deepen our collective understanding. Our discussions will span every continent and various time periods, providing a rich, global perspective on queer history. This group welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to join in the conversation, reflect on the past, and connect with the broader queer community. Members of the LGBTQ+ community 18 years old and up are invited to attend. Led by Alethea Burns and Robin Brown.