Finding Support

First of all - you are not alone.  Here are some places you can go to be yourself and find support from other kids who are exploring gender and sexuality. 
 

The Center Long Beach   

The Center Long Beach has social events, support groups just for you. The MYTE youth empowerment program is full of opportunities for you to get involved.   Check out their upcoming events:  www.centerlb.org/newsEvents/  

The Center OC

The Gay and Lesbian Center in Orange County is also sponsoring events for youth. Check out upcoming events at : www.thecenteroc.org/Programs/Youth/.

Gay and Lesbian Straight Education Network (GLSEN)

Need support at school? Check out the GLSEN website-dedicated to creating safe space for LGBTQ kidsin their schools. Visit them at http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/home/index.html.

Exploring Gender, Identity, Coming Out

 I think I might be transgender...now what do I do?

Document on transgender youth, by transgender youth. http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/youth/health/pamphlets/transgender.pdf  

Mom, I Need To Be a Girl: 

Written by the mom of a transsexual child who transitioned-- including surgery -- with mom's help while still in high school. The book is available free at the web site in multiple langues and formats available HERE  and in a 140-page 2nd ed. in English, available at booksurge.com

Advocating For Yourself

Need help coming out, dealing with school, communicating with parents or friends? Need legal information regarding your rights as a transgendered youth? Check out the links below:

Toolkit for Trans youth

Advocating for safer schools, bathroom rights, antiharrassment etc.  lambdalegal.org/bending-the-mold 

Know Your Rights

Drivers License Change, Name Change, Age of Consent, healthcare issues.The Transgender Law Center has articles, free downloads and they also are available by phone.  http://www.transgenderlawcenter.org/

Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund

TLDEF is committed to ending discrimination based upon gender identity and expression and to achieving equality for transgender people through public education, test-case litigation, direct legal services, community organizing and public policy efforts.  http://www.transgenderlegal.org/