On Saturday, March 11, 2023, over 100 middle and high school students from the Coachella Valley and several surrounding communities gathered at the UCR Palm Desert Center for the annual Rainbow Youth Summit—our first since 2020!
Participating students listened to inspirational speakers, visited information tables, and participated in workshops. Special thanks to Peter Daut, of KESQ Newschannel 3; Palm Springs City Council Member, Lisa Middleton; and KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs radio personalities, John Taylor, Chris Shebel, and Eric Ornelas for inspiring our LGBTQ+ kids to be their authentic selves.
Presentations, exhibits, and entertainment were provided by several organizations, including Free Mom Hugs, The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, DAP Health, Planned Parenthood, College of the Desert, L-Fund, Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health, Desert Recreation District, Author Ryan Sallans, presented by The Transgender Health & Wellness Center-Inland Empire, DSUSD, CVUSD, UCR Palm Desert Center, Shann Carr, Brian Wanzek, Timothy McIntosh, and Carol Kamenis. Financial support was provided by The American Express Impact Through Golf Foundation and NPO Centric RAP Foundation. We thank them for making this event possible.
