The Diversity Center offers a number of peer-to-peer support groups aimed at building community and reducing feelings of isolation.

Femme TransFormation Support Group
Date: Every Thursday, Starting May 1st
Time: 6:00-7:30 pm
Location: The Diversity Center (in-person with hybrid Zoom option)
Age: 18+

Being on the feminine or female side of the trans umbrella brings its own set of joys and challenges and the transition process each of us go through represents a true heroine’s journey.  Whether you are relatively new to the call of transition, in the middle, or have completed transition and are negotiating the challenges of living fully as your authentic self, this group offers a space to celebrate each of our journeys, from the trials we face to the rewards we reap.  This peer support group offers support and mentorship, especially at a time such as this. This group will be facilitated by Mackenzie (she/her/hers), a trans woman and practicing psychologist (although she will not be facilitating the group as a professional).  

Reach out to Mackenzie at femmetransgrp@diversitycenter.org if you are interested in joining or wanting to learn more about the group. All participants must complete a 30 minute screening meeting prior to attending the group.

Empowered Allies: A Group for Friends and Family of Trans Loved Ones (virtual group hosted by TDC)
Date: 2nd and 4th Mondays, starting February 24
Time: 6:30-7:30 pm
Location: Zoom 
Ages: 18+

Do you have a transgender partner, parent, child, or friend and are looking for ways to support them with understanding and confidence? This group is your space to connect with other allies, ask questions, and gain valuable tools to navigate your journey together.

Join us in a safe and supportive environment where you’ll learn practical strategies, share experiences, and grow your skills to advocate for the trans people in your life. Together, we’ll explore both the emotional and actionable sides of being an ally, helping you make a meaningful impact in your loved ones' lives and the broader community. The group meets in-person on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from 6:30-7:30pm for the next 6 months.

To Join: All participants must complete a 15-30 minute screening meeting prior to attending group

Contact tdctransallies@gmail.com for scheduling a screening meeting to be enrolled in the group, and if you have any questions.

Queer Women 🧡 Queer Women
Date: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, until July 22
Time: 6:30-8:00 pm
Length: 12-session series
Location: The Diversity Center 
Ages: 18+

This Queer Women 🧡 Queer Women inclusive support group is for age 18+ identified queer women who like queer women (transwomen, ciswomen, queer, lesbian, dykes, pan, bi, exploring, etc). This group’s focus is to have a safe and inclusive space to talk about all things related, support each other, honor our diversity, and share helpful resources. The group meets in person on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8:00 pm for 12 group sessions (6 months).

To Join: All participants must complete a 15-30 minute screening meeting prior to attending group

Contact tdclesbiangroup@gmail.com for scheduling a screening meeting to be enrolled in the group, and if you have any questions.

Cultivating Trans Joy
Date: Every Third Tuesday
Time: 7:00-8:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Ages: 18-30

Cultivating Trans Joy is a community group for trans and non-binary young adults ages 18 - 26 to engage in reflection, discussion, and activities focused on cultivating joy and wellbeing. This monthly group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Please reach out to transjoy@diversitycenter.org if you're interested in joining or have any questions!

LGBTQ+ Survivors of Domestic Abuse
Date: Every Second and Fourth Tuesday
Time: 6:00-7:00 pm
Location: Zoom

Every second and fourth Tuesday, Walnut Avenue is partnering with The Diversity Center to offer a virtual support group to survivors of domestic violence who are LGBTQ+. For more information about what the group is about and to register for the access link, click the link below.

Trans & Non-Binary Peer Support Group
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 7:30-9:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Ages: 18+ 
Contact tnbgroup@diversitycenter.org for the link and password.

This support and discussion group is for people 18+ who identify on the spectrum of trans/nonbinary/agender/genderfluid and more. The group also welcomes those who want to explore their identity but who may not need or want to classify themselves. All individuals are encouraged to explore their individual selves without concern or pressure that the next step needs to be ‘transitioning’ and without concern about fitting into other people's definitions. Make up your own! The Diversity Center's transgender and non-binary peer support group provides a supportive and interactive experience in a safe and brave space.

Grupo De Apoyo Mariposa de la Comunidad LGBTQ+
Fecha: Premier Jueves del Mes
Hora: 5:30-7:30 pm
Ubicación: Biblioteca Watsonville

¡Bienvenidos al grupo de apoyo LGBTQ + de Watsonville del Centro de Diversidad! ¿Tiene 18 años o más, se siente solo, sin apoyo? O quieres conocer a otros como tú. Lo encontraste. Aquí obtendrá recursos, apoyo, capacitaciones y tendrá nuevas conexiones en la comunidad. Facilitado por Roselyn Macias el primer jueves de cada mes. 

No RSVP Required

Queer Grief Collective:  Holding Space for Loss and Liberation
Date: Fridays February 28 - May 2, 2025
Time: 10:00 -11:30 am, with an optional tea time after from 11:30-12:00
Location: The Diversity Center, 1117 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Ages: 18+ 

The Queer Grief Collective is a 10-week group designed to provide a supportive and affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals to explore grief and loss. Rooted in systemic insights and communal healing, the group fosters a deeper understanding of how grief intersects with identity, culture, and community. Together, participants will navigate their unique experiences of loss, reflect on the systemic pressures that shape them, and discover pathways to liberation and growth.

Trans Masculine Support Group
Date: Every Second and Fourth Sunday
Time: 6:00-7:00 pm
Location: Zoom

The Diversity Center Santa Cruz Trans* Masculine group meets every month on the 2nd and 4th Sunday via Zoom. This group offers peer support and social connections. All FTM, Transmen, masculine-spectrum, butch, boi, folks questioning their gender, etc. are welcome. Contact transmascgroup@diversitycenter.org  for questions and to get the access link.

GenderVentures for LGBTQ+ Youth
Date: April 5 and every first Saturday
Time: 1:00-2:30 pm 
Location: The Diversity Center
Ages: 11-18
RSVP: tinyurl.com/TDCyouth2025

Join us for a special screening of A Kid Like Jake, a heartfelt drama about a Brooklyn couple navigating the challenges of raising their gender-expansive child. As they prepare for kindergarten admissions, they confront societal expectations and explore what it truly means to support and celebrate a child's identity.

This event is open to all youth and allies (ages 11-18) and will be followed by a thoughtful discussion on gender identity, family support, and inclusivity. Snacks will be provided! Come for the movie, stay for the conversation! 🎥✨