Help a Brave Young Queer Student Thrive Abroad

Hi, friends.

This is Debi Jackson — longtime advocate for trans and queer youth, and someone who believes that every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and free to live as their authentic self.

Today, I’m asking for your help on behalf of a young person who means the world to me…he’s essentially my bonus son.

He recently made the incredibly brave move to leave everything behind and join us so that he can finally live openly, safely, and authentically as himself. For the first time, he’s able to exist without fear — no more hiding who he is, no more shrinking himself to fit someone else’s expectations. That kind of freedom shouldn’t be a luxury, but for so many LGBTQ+ youth, it is.

He expected to receive some financial support from back home, but that support hasn’t come through. And with diversity and inclusion work drying up under the current administration, my income has significantly dropped, and I simply don’t have the resources to cover all of his expenses. That’s where I hope you’ll come in.

We’re covering his housing and day-to-day costs, but I’m raising funds for tuition and health insurance… the costs that are due upfront in the next couple of weeks. If we get that covered and have a little left, I know he’d like to buy some clothes and hiking boots (he only came with one suitcase). Every donation, no matter the size, is a lifeline that allows him to keep studying, stay safe, and continue building the life he deserves.

He’s smart, resilient, and deeply kind. He made a courageous decision to pursue a future where he can live freely. Let’s show him that his community will show up for him — just like he’s learning to show up for himself.

Thank you for helping a young person feel seen, supported, and safe.

With gratitude and love,

Debi Jackson


Trans Youth Advocate & Proud Parent