Brian Jenkins

April 16, 2019

This week’s #TellYouStoryTuesday features Brian Jenkins. Read below for the full Q&A:

Q1: What inspired you to work with or be an ally/advocate for Safe Space NOVA?

A: I randomly followed a member who made a post about the organization, and I wondered what it was. I looked up the Instagram page and checked out the website; and determined it was a fantastic idea, events and mentorship for LGBTQ youth! Something I would have greatly appreciated growing up.

Q2: How important is an organization like Safe Space NOVA to the LGBT+ youth community?

A: This is extremely important; even in today’s society with more awareness and social media, the idea of tangible in person interaction for the youth is needed. Too much time is spent alone, which can foster bad habits and scary thoughts. The youth need and outlet for themselves, and Safe Space NOVA provides it.

Q3: How important do you think it is to target the 14-18 year old range?

A: I honestly think you could start younger, however that is a great age range because you really start to deal with physical, emotional and societal influences during that time.

Q4: What are some of the challenges and roadblocks that you have personally faced within the LGBT+ community and how do you think Safe Space NOVA can help break down any barriers?

A: I have never really felt like I belonged, growing up and well into my twenties, I did not know many people in the LGBTQ Community. I also never really felt I meshed well with the few I knew, and I think part of that was the minimal contact as a young kid. Safe Space NOVA I believe can help by being that conduit for teens to be able to see others like and unlike themselves, seeing others with varying thoughts, behaviors, and ideas, allowing the youth to be able to embrace the differences and the similarities in us all.

Q5: Have you personally dealt with or witnessed someone firsthand deal with the issues in the LGBT+ community that Safe Space NOVA is aiming to prevent (depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, drug abuse, etc.)?

A: Fortunately, I personally have not, and no one in my immediate circle has.

Q6: How are you hoping to make an impact by working with Safe Space NOVA?

A: It would be great to just assist when needed. I never put much thought into wanting to make a specific impact, mainly because I feel the existence of the organization is such a great thing.