The Trevor Project Ally Training (virtual) (Dorchester/Charles)

The Trevor Project educates youth-serving professionals on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ young people.

This cultural competency training is designed to create dialogue around being an adult ally for LGBTQ+ youth by informing participants about common terminology, the “coming out” process, and challenges at home, in school, and the community. Ally training has been presented to adults within

the foster care system, those working with adjudicated, homeless or runaway

youth, with spiritual or faith leaders, and many more.

After participating in this training, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the services offered by The Trevor Project and how youth can access them
• Describe what it means to be an ally
• Describe various terminology related to LGBTQ+ communities
• Identify unique challenges facing LGBTQ+ people
• Identify ways to create safer and more supportive environments for LGBTQ+ people
• Identify ways to combat bias in yourself and your community by developing cultural awareness and sensitivity

Participants have shared:

“The content is very informative and provides a good overview of what The Trevor Project does… This is the second time I’ve attended this program and have enjoyed it and found helpful information each time.”

“It gave me an insight into a world I previously had little knowledge on.”

“The thing I liked the most about this training was how it was very honest and very informational.”

Questions about this training? Please email MHFAtraining@mhamd.org and indicate what training you are registered for.

About the Trainer: Naeemah Staggs is a dynamic educator, trainer, and consultant with more than 20 years of experience designing and delivering impactful learning experiences across PK–12, higher education, and professional development settings. She brings a versatile approach to teaching, facilitating engaging sessions in online, hybrid, and in-person environments that equip participants with practical skills and meaningful insights.

Naeemah partners with organizations, communities, and professionals to strengthen their capacity to support vulnerable populations. Her work centers on developing and implementing curriculum and training that advance equity, enhance service delivery, and promote resilience. A Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Naeemah has deep expertise in child welfare and mental health, with a focus on supporting marginalized communities.

Currently, Naeemah serves as an instructor and trainer for the University of Maryland School of Social Work, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), the Mental Health Association of Maryland, and The Trevor Project. She is also a published children’s book author and an active community volunteer, contributing her time to Jack and Jill of America, Inc., the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County.

Naeemah holds a Master of Human Services from Lincoln University, and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at Frostburg State University. A native of Washington, DC, she resides in the surrounding area with her husband and 12-year-old daughter.