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
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Click here to register.
Calling All Femcees
Come as you are to this therapeutic writing lab for those who identify as women. Together we will work on creating a safe space for you to write raps and share with others. All writing levels and rapping styles are welcomed (from boombap to drill). Bring your own beat, headphones, writing materials, and most importantly, your energy and creativity. Led by Kishara Joy Griffin, MSW.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Fall schedule: Wednesdays, Oct 1 & 29 and Dec 10
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 Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Cozy Crafting With Cobb
Join Elizabeth Cobb for an evening of arts, crafts, and connection. As the winter days get shorter and colder, we encourage you to 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. Led by Elizabeth Cobb, LCSW.
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.
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.
Click here to register.
The Sacred Return: A Nature Based Workshop Series
Mondays, Nov 3–17
This November, join us for a three-part nature-based journey into connection with our living earth, each other and self. Through circle gathering, ritual, movement, and creativity, we will explore what it means to belong. Together we will listen to the land and to each other. Each session invites curiosity, imagination, and embodied presence. No prior experience is needed; just a willingness to gather and walk in wooded areas. Details on parking, weather, and trails will be shared with registrants in advance. Come prepared with a journal (optional; we'll have extras available), comfortable clothing for potentially cold, wet weather and footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Lyrics and Laughter
How well do you remember the music of the 90’s and 2000’s? Join us to find out! Sister Circle invites you to an evening of connection, laughter and nostalgia with other women as we engage in the trivia game, "Lyrically Correct.” Led by Kishara Joy Griffin, MSW.
Click here to register.
The Sacred Return: A Nature Based Workshop Series
Mondays, Nov 3–17
This November, join us for a three-part nature-based journey into connection with our living earth, each other and self. Through circle gathering, ritual, movement, and creativity, we will explore what it means to belong. Together we will listen to the land and to each other. Each session invites curiosity, imagination, and embodied presence. No prior experience is needed; just a willingness to gather and walk in wooded areas. Details on parking, weather, and trails will be shared with registrants in advance. Come prepared with a journal (optional; we'll have extras available), comfortable clothing for potentially cold, wet weather and footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
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.
Click here to register.
The Sacred Return: A Nature Based Workshop Series
Mondays, Nov 3–17
This November, join us for a three-part nature-based journey into connection with our living earth, each other and self. Through circle gathering, ritual, movement, and creativity, we will explore what it means to belong. Together we will listen to the land and to each other. Each session invites curiosity, imagination, and embodied presence. No prior experience is needed; just a willingness to gather and walk in wooded areas. Details on parking, weather, and trails will be shared with registrants in advance. Come prepared with a journal (optional; we'll have extras available), comfortable clothing for potentially cold, wet weather and footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Led by Kara Castle, LCSW and Sibila Quiroz, MSW.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Fall schedule: Wednesdays, Oct 1 & 29 and Dec 10
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 Lisa Gaudet.
Click here to register.
Arte y Alegría: Día de los Muertos
Miércoles, 22 de octubre
Acompáñanos a celebrar las tradiciones Latines durante estos días festivos de octubre creando arte y manualidades. Facilitado por Kassandra Baltazar, MSW.
Para registrarse para este grupo llame al 434.328.1800 o envíe un mensaje a bienestar@thewomensinitiative.org.
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.
Click here to register.
Let Your Heart Guide Your Pen
What does your heart say to you? Sister Circle invites you to find a moment to reconnect with your heart space and allow it to speak to you. Join this therapeutic writing group for women of color. Together we will engage in mediative reconnection to self and each other through the act of creative writing. Led by Kishara Joy Griffin, MSW.
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.
Click here to register.
Q Social Hour
Fall schedule: Wednesdays, Oct 1, 15 & 29 and Dec 10
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 Lisa Gaudet.