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Here for Training and Education

We're here to increase the amount of LGBTQ+ affirming providers, businesses, academic institutions, government agencies, and organizations throughout Western New York.  Trainings are not meant to change personal beliefs– we all have different beliefs and come from different backgrounds - but CCT does aim to provide people with knowledge and information to help everyone learn to respect each other, despite our differences.

Cultural competency trainings benefit participants by providing concrete information and real-world examples to enlighten participants in ways that lead to a more equal, affirming, and productive environment.  This type of training helps to address considerations such as improving communication, creating safer space, developing tolerance, and enhancing learning and work environments.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES MAY INCLUDE:

  • Difference between sexuality & gender
  • Difference between sex assigned at birth & gender
  • Importance of pronouns
  • Specific identities/how they're defined
  • How to stay in compliance with NYS law

We also offer more in-depth trainings for those working with youth, seniors, in healthcare/behavioral health settings, with international populations, and more. 

ABOUT THE TRAINER

Our curriculum features up-to-date research and is tailored to meet the needs of each agency. Trainings are currently being developed and delivered by Elliott Bystrak, MPH, the Engagement & Education Manager. Elliott has a Master's in Public Health with a focus on health and wellness in the LGBTQ+ community. To date they have trained more than 2,000 Western New Yorkers on how to better support LGBTQ+ people in their communities. 

VIRTUAL OFFERING 

COVID-19 has presented us with some challenges and some opportunities. We're happy to announce that we've taken our LGBTQ+ Cultural Competency trainings online!
Participants will get the same information as our in-person training delivered in real time. We can join your virtual platform or provide links to our Zoom account. Contact us for details. 

PRICING

All funds received from speaking engagements are used to further our mission. Speaking fees are an important and much-needed revenue source to sustain our field education services. We are particularly sensitive to the needs of nonprofit organizations and those with limited funds. 

$25 per person for students; non-profits with annual operating budgets less than $500k

$50 per person for businesses/for profit organizations with annual operating budgets greater than $500k

Fees include course completion certificates for each participant, digital course booklet, and PDF of terminology worksheet. See FAQ 

SCHEDULING

To schedule an LGBTQ+ Cultural Competency Training for your business or organization, you must submit a request online. Requests will be answered in the order in which they are received. We typically book at least one month in advance, or minimum two months' notice for trainings requested during Pride Month (June). For questions about trainings, email training@pridecenterwny.org 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please review our Training and Education FAQ's for any questions.