Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project

Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project

Hi, I'm KK (they/them). I'm a therapist licensed in VT, OR, and WA.

Project Overview:

As a therapist dedicated to creating safe spaces for all people, I am excited to announce the launch of the Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project. Based in Montpelier, VT, this project is designed to provide an inclusive space where trans youth, and all young people, can access movement, exercise, and physical education (PE) credits in a supportive and affirming environment. The goal is simple but powerful: to create a space where these kids can feel seen, heard, and understood, with the opportunity to move their bodies in a way that is joyful and empowering.

Why This Project Matters:

Trans youth face numerous challenges, including mental health struggles and barriers to accessing necessary resources. For some, even the basic right to learn in school free from bullying is not possible. Exercise and participation in PE programs can be an obstacle, especially when their identities are misunderstood or not supported by traditional school systems. The Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project is here to change that.

In the course of my work, I’ve encountered numerous situations where trans youth are denied proper accommodations for PE, often due to school district ignorance of accommodations that other districts have swiftly enforced. One case stands out: a high school trans-girl, in a conservative school district, was told she’d need to pay $200 to take an online PE course from a school that openly discriminates against LGBTQ students. The course required her to submit videos, which felt unsafe and uncomfortable.

But here’s the thing: students have a right to access PE credits through independent, at-home programs. That’s their right - safe and accessible education. By completing 5 hours of exercise each week and getting a guardian and teacher’s sign-off, trans and gender-nonconforming youth can fulfill their PE requirements without being forced into unsafe or discriminatory situations. This project is here to advocate for and provide that alternative — one that centers joy, health, and respect for everyone involved.

How This Project Will Work:

The Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project will provide:

Movement and Exercise Community: Youth will have a space to engage in physical activities with others who share similar experiences and identities, ensuring that no one feels out of place. Physical space for all is located in Montpelier, VT. Online space for all.

Therapeutic Movement: As I complete my yoga therapy certification, I will host therapy-focused yoga sessions to support mental and physical health, offering a gentle way to build confidence and body awareness.

Movement Groups, Retreats, and Camps: These small-group events will allow kids to come together for weekend movement intensives, where they’ll engage with peers, learn new skills, and form a community around movement.

Donation-Based Services: While some services will be covered through insurance (such as therapy groups), many will be available on a donation basis to ensure that no one is excluded for financial reasons.

Advocacy for PE Credit Accommodations: I will work directly with students, families, and schools to help trans youth understand and access independent at-home PE credit options, helping them navigate the process of getting the accommodations they deserve.

The Impact:

The Trans Joy Movement and Wellness Project will:

Support trans youth in feeling safe, valued, and affirmed in their physical education experience.

Provide access to movement and wellness resources in a way that isn’t restricted by cost, gender identity, or exclusionary policies.

Create a broader community of care.

We are hoping to make an important step toward reducing the mental health disparities that trans youth often face.

What I Need to Make This Happen:

To get this project off the ground, I need your support. Your donations will help fund:

Yoga Therapy Certification: Yoga teachers and personal trainers will require funding to acquire certification. I am currently working toward my yoga therapy certification, which will allow me to offer trauma-informed, body-affirming sessions to trans youth and others in need.

Movement Group and Camp Logistics: Funding will help pay for space rentals, equipment, and retreat materials to make these events both accessible and impactful.

Advocacy Resources: I will create resources and materials to educate students, families, and schools about their rights and how to access PE credits independently.

Technology and Social Media Setup: I will set up platforms to share movement tutorials, resources, and virtual sessions, ensuring that youth and their families can easily access the services from home.

Why Your Support Is So Important:

As a shy, introverted person who’s usually behind the scenes, putting myself out here feels like a big leap, but this project is too important not to. In January 2025, I experienced the tragic loss of a transgender girl. Her loss inspired me to create the Trans Joy Archives - a website highlighting trans joy and “Things That Don’t Suck”-Andrea Gibson.

Trans youth deserve to have a space where they can feel safe, supported, and celebrated while also achieving the physical wellness they need. This project isn’t just about exercise — it’s about providing trans youth with the tools, confidence, and space to live their fullest, most authentic lives.

With your help, we can make this vision a reality.

Let’s build a world where every young person, no matter their identity, can experience joy in movement.

Thank you so much for your support!

Sincerely,

KK, MA, LCMHC (they/them)

Therapist, Advocate, and Founder of Trans Joy Movement and Wellness