Transcend is a program of NY LGBT Network for Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, and Non-Binary people now offering health and support at our Queens LGBT Center (Q-Center) in Astoria. Group sessions include a monthly peer support circle, social meet-ups, and drop-in sessions with HIV/STI testing, food, and activities. Transcend provides a safe space to learn from each other and discuss issues of importance to our community, such as coming out and being out, processes for name and gender marker changes, self-advocacy in healthcare, and more. 

     Our HIV/STI prevention services offer testing and PrEP linkages for Young (ages 13-34) TGNCNB people of color.  You can earn $25 when you test or refer a friend. 

    Check out our past sessions below, check back regularly for new sessions, or fill out the form below to be updated when new sessions are available

    HIV PREVENTION

    Transcend offers FREE HIV & STI testing and PrEP linkages for Young (ages 13-34) TGNCNB people of color.

    Interested in PrEP to prevent HIV?  The first step in getting on PrEP is a negative HIV Test. See below to schedule an appointment or request more information.

    Get tested, get paid.

    All trans and nonbinary people of color ages 13-34 who test with us can receive a $25 gift card! Schedule a test today to learn your status and get paid.

    3 EASY WAYS TO SCHEDULE A TESTING APPOINTMENT:

    · To book an appointment online, click here:  Book an Appointment

    · Call or text 646-784-9112, state that you want an HIV test, and/or PrEP information, and a staff member will respond quickly

    · Click the button and fill out the form to get more information 

    Request More Information Now

    Refer a friend, get paid.

    Refer a friend who identifies as a trans/nonbinary person of color ages 13-34 and receive a $25 gift card for each referred friend who completes an HIV test with us! Click here to refer a friend 


    Upcoming Transcend Community Programs:

    Trans & Gender Diversity Meet-Ups: Board Game Night 

    Tuesday, January 6, 2025 from 6:30 – 8:00 PM:
    Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Join our new social mixer for trans and non-binary folks! This monthly meet-up is an opportunity to make friends and meet new people within the transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary community in a relaxed environment. Each month, we will have different games and activities to help you have fun and socialize while creating community. This month, our Board Game Night is the perfect winter warm-up. Settle in with a small group to play from our collection of board and card games. Game on, and get to know your community in a cozy setting. 

    Past Transcend Community Programs Include:

    Transcend: TGNCNB In-Person Mixer

    Tuesday, August 15, 2023 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Join us for night of support and community with transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary folks of all ages.  Our conversations can go anywhere, but are always interesting!

     
    I’m Coming OUT 

    Tuesday, September 12, 2023 • 6:30pm – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    In preparation for October’s National Coming Out Day (NCOD), this month’s community program is a Trans Speak Out! All of our trans, gender nonconforming, and nonbinary siblings are encouraged to share their coming out journeys as we support each other in speaking our truths! Together, our individual coming out stories will weave a collective narrative of our community’s diversity, struggles, resiliency, and visibility.

    Legal Name & Gender Marker Changes

    Tuesday, October 3, 2023 • 6:30pm – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    For many of us, securing a legal name change is an important step in our journey toward more authentic living. In collaboration with Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF), this month’s community program is an information session detailing the process of how to change one’s legal name and gender marker here in New York City. Whether you are ready to start the process now or if you simply want to learn about options available to our community, this educational program is one you won’t want to miss!

    Trans Healthcare & Self-Advocacy 

    Tuesday, November 14, 2023 • 6:30pm – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    As trans and nonbinary individuals, it can feel like we are in an endless battle when seeking healthcare and that we must become master self-advocates to simply access gender affirming care. In collaboration with the Transgender Health & Wellness Program at Lenox Hill Hospital, this month’s community program offers tools and tips to navigate the healthcare system more effectively and to become even stronger advocates for ourselves in medical settings.

    Transcend: Valentine’s Speed Meet

    Tuesday, February 6, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Celebrate the season of love and connection with our Transcend: Speed Meet! Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, genuine conversations, and the chance to meet incredible individuals who embrace their true selves. Whether you’re looking for friendship, companionship, or a spark that could ignite into something more, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded people in a warm, welcoming environment.

    Trans Day of Visibility Social & Photography Night 

    Tuesday, March 12, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:30PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    A night of celebration, socializing, and photography that reflects your true self. collective narrative of our community’s diversity, struggles, resiliency, and visibility. Photos provided for free by Sutherland Pictures, Inc. Photoshoot slots will be limited, so be sure to RSVP here to secure your spot!

    Mental Health Discussions & TGNCNB Community

    Tuesday, April 9, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center(Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Dive into a sincere conversation about mental health within the TGNCNB community in our next session. We will be unpacking essential topics, as managing dysphoria, the unique risk factors for mental health within the community, and ways to cope.

    Transcend Talent Show!

    Tuesday, May 7, 2024 • 6:00PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Calling all artists from the TGNCNB community! Ever wanted a stage to showcase your skills? Whether it’s karaoke, original music, poetry, art, or other talents, it’s your time to shine. Come share your talent with a supportive audience. Be bold. Be different. Be YOU. Sign up for the Talent Show!
     

    Transcend: Gender Dysphoria & Euphoria 

    Tuesday, June 11, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Though unique to each person, gender dysphoria and euphoria can be common experiences for members of the transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary community. Join us for an empowering and informative open discussion exploring the complexities of gender dysphoria and euphoria, led by experienced facilitators and members of the TGNCNB community. This session aims to foster understanding, support, and resilience around experiences of gender dysphoria and euphoria. During the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to share their insights, and coping strategies related to gender dysphoria, as well as, their experiences of and inspirations for gender euphoria. 

    Transcend: Trans Fashion and Style

    Tuesday, July 2, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Clothing can be a powerful tool to combat gender dysphoria and add confidence to your look. Come learn how to create a masculine, feminine, or androgynous silhouette at our Transcend: Trans Fashion and Style session! Whether you are a fashion lover or novice, you will learn how fashion is related to gender expression, what looks are currently trending, and how you can create a signature style that speaks to your unique expression!

    Transcend: Career Development 

    Tuesday, August 6, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Navigating career development as a transgender, gender non-conforming, or non-binary person may come with a unique set of challenges. This month, we are collaborating with Career Services Lead Veronica Sirotic (she/they) to share information on finding an affirming place to work, navigating coming out during the interview process, and tips and tricks for building the perfect resume.

    Transcend: Laser Hair Removal Information Session

    Tuesday, September 3, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Are you interested in laser hair removal as part of your gender-affirming journey, but don’t know where to start? You don’t have to go it alone. This month, we are collaborating with Karen Angulo of Satori Laser to provide all the information you need to know about laser hair removal, including how to obtain it, what the process looks like, and how to prepare for a session!

     

    Binding Basics

    Thursday, October 3, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Are you interested in laser hair removal as part of your gender-affirming journey, but don’t know where to start? You don’t have to go it alone. This month, we are collaborating with Karen Angulo of Satori Laser to provide all the information you need to know about laser hair removal, including how to obtain it, what the process looks like, and how to prepare for a session! 

    TDOR Art Night

    Thursday, November 7, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Join us for a transformative evening of creativity, connection, and healing as we make personal art in honor of Trans Day of Remembrance. This event is designed to provide a safe and supportive space for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals to express their experiences, reflect on the lives lost to violence, and celebrate the resilience of our community through art. 

    TDOR Art Night

    Thursday, November 7, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Join us for a transformative evening of creativity, connection, and healing as we make personal art in honor of Trans Day of Remembrance. This event is designed to provide a safe and supportive space for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary individuals to express their experiences, reflect on the lives lost to violence, and celebrate the resilience of our community through art. 

    Gender-Affirming Hair

    Thursday, December 5, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    This month, we are collaborating with Tomahawk Hair Studio to bring you a session all about gender-affirming hair! Whether you are looking to grow your hair long, get a haircut that’s right for you, or learn how to care for your natural hair, there is something for everyone in this informative session. Come learn from professional stylists about how to make your hair reflect your true self!

    Media Representation & Misrepresentation

    Thursday, January 17, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Depictions of transgender and non-binary people in media can be a positive force for change – or a reminder of what change still needs to happen. In this community session, we will discuss transgender and non-binary representation in movies, music, TV, video games, and more! Come together to share your favorite and least favorite examples of trans media and what makes them positive or negative representation.

    Legal Name & Gender Marker Changes 

    Thursday, March 6, 2024 • 6:30PM – 8:00PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Having legal documents that accurately reflect your name and gender is paramount for many transgender and non-binary folks, though it can be difficult to know where to start. This March, Transcend is collaborating with Vibrant Emotional Health and New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) to assist with the process of changing your legal name and gender marker here in NYC!

    Come learn more about the process of changing your legal name and gender marker and complete paperwork on the spot. Notaries and other knowledgeable staff will be available to answer any questions you might have.

    Voice Training with Christie Block of
    New York Speech & Voice lab

    Thursday, May 1, 2025 • 6:30 – 8:00 PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    If you experience dysphoria around your voice, voice training can be an option to sound like your most authentic self. In this month’s Transcend workshop, we are collaborating with Speech-Language Pathologist Christie Block of New York Speech & Voice Lab to learn different techniques and tools for voice training! Gain insight into voice techniques for any gender presentation in a safe space with Transcend.

    The Power of Makeup

    Thursday, June 5, 2025 • 6:30 – 8:00 PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Makeup can be used in a variety of ways to increase your confidence, express your gender identity, and create gender euphoria! This month, come together for a workshop session detailing the basics of makeup for any gender presentation. Together, we will learn practical techniques for makeup application, swap our favorite makeup tips and tricks, and discuss the history of cosmetics within the transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary community.

    Hormone Replacement Therapy Information

    Thursday, July 3, 2025 • 6:30 – 8:00 PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a valuable option to help transgender, gender non-conforming, or non-binary people transition medically. This month, come together for an information session detailing what you may be able to expect from hormone replacement therapy, including information about puberty blockers, estrogen/progesterone, and testosterone! Together, we will learn about the changes that HRT can bring in a safe and supportive space. 

    Know Your Rights: Immigration & the LGBTQ+ Community

    Thursday, August 7, 2025 • 6:30 – 8:00 PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Immigration law can be difficult to navigate, especially if you are transgender, gender non-conforming, or non-binary. Join us to learn about current immigration laws, your legal rights, and the next steps toward achieving citizenship. This session is presented in collaboration with Rodríguez-Martin Immigration Law Offices, a bilingual, culturally competent, and LGBTQ+ affirming law office. Se habla español

    SEXI Saturdays

    Saturday, August 23, 2025 • 12:00 – 6:00 PM • Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Part of the trans community between ages 13 and 34? Join Us Saturday to get tested for HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hep C, and/or Syphilis with our excellent testing team. If you are a young trans person of color get a $25 gift card for testing, and an addition gift card for starting PrEP medication!  Drop-in for testing and catch a movie, have a snack, and get other resources.
     

    Transcend: National Coming Out Day Art Night 

    Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 6:30 – 8:00 PM:
    Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Art has a unique power to heal, express, create, and unite. Take some time for self-reflection, art, and community conversations with other transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary folks in honor of National Coming Out Day! We will express our creativity and individuality through painting, with trans-related prompts that encourage creativity and discussion. 
     

    Transcend: Trans-giving Potluck Celebration 

    Tuesday, November 4, 2025 from 6:30 – 8:00 PM:
    Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106
    This Thanksgiving season, show your gratitude for community and togetherness at our potluck-style celebration for transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people! Come together as a chosen family for community and friendship while sharing in snacks and making new friends. Participants are encouraged to bring snacks, food, or non-alcoholic drinks to share on a voluntary basis.

    Transcend: Hot Chocolate Social 

    Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 6:30 – 8:00 PM:
    Queens LGBT Center (Q Center) 35-11 35th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106

    Join our new social mixer for trans and non-binary folks! This monthly meet-up is an opportunity to make friends and meet new people within the transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary community in a relaxed environment. Each month, we will have different games and activities to help you have fun and socialize while creating community. This month, cozy up at our hot chocolate social and kick off the start of this new program! We will have a hot chocolate bar with fix-ins as well as accompanying sweet treats to warm our spirits. Wear your comfiest sweater and get ready for some fun!