Etcetera: Creating Space for Belonging, Connection, and Safety

For many young people, adolescence is a time of discovering identity, building friendships, and learning where they belong. But for some 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, those years can also come with isolation, uncertainty, and fear of rejection. The Bridge’s Etcetera Program exists to offer something every young person deserves; a safe space to be fully themselves.

Etcetera is a weekly social group for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 11–18, supporting approximately 40–50 young people each year through connection, community, and affirming support. The program offers separate after-school groups for ages 11–14 and 15–18, creating age-appropriate spaces where participants can gather, build friendships, and engage in fun activities in a welcoming environment.

A Space to Be Yourself

At its core, Etcetera is about belonging.

The program provides opportunities for youth to spend time with supportive adults and peers, participate in activities and outings, and experience the kind of safety and acceptance that many may not encounter elsewhere in their lives.

For some participants, Etcetera becomes much more than a weekly group.

Staff note that it is not uncommon for former participants to share that the program was a critical resource in helping them navigate adolescence. In communities and environments where acceptance cannot always be assumed, having a space where youth feel seen, respected, and valued can make a profound difference.

Meeting a Critical Community Need

2SLGBTQIA+ youth often face unique challenges related to identity, acceptance, and safety. Many spend significant time assessing whether spaces and people around them are safe before they feel comfortable being themselves.

Etcetera helps address this reality by creating a supportive environment where youth can connect without fear of judgment. The group offers more than social opportunities; it provides emotional safety, affirmation, and community.

The program also supports youth through: Social opportunities and peer connection, exposure to new activities and experiences, access to basic needs resources, and access to gender-affirming items and supports.

These supports help participants strengthen confidence, reduce isolation, and develop meaningful relationships with others who understand their experiences.

The Impact of Feeling Accepted

One parent shared how Etcetera positively impacted their child after joining the program:

“I have noticed that Jonah (not their real name) is more confident since beginning to attend Etcetera. They seem more at ease with who they are, and I have noticed that they have less anxiety during the week. They made a really good friend at Etcetera and I think that's made a lot of difference for them.”

Stories like this reflect the deeper impact of the program. Sometimes, the opportunity to make one meaningful friendship or to exist in a truly accepting environment can change how a young person sees themselves and their future.

Looking Ahead

Etcetera continues to grow and evolve alongside the needs of the youth it serves. One exciting future initiative is a new partnership with local queer organizations, allies, and the Camp Fyrefly team to bring the first-ever queer youth camp to Kelowna later this year. The camp will offer opportunities focused on arts, leadership, and connection; further expanding spaces where youth can build confidence and community.

At its heart, Etcetera reflects The Bridge’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to be themselves. Through connection, affirmation, and community, the program continues to help youth move through adolescence with greater confidence, belonging, and hope.