Who is HQ?
HQ is a collaboration of diverse agencies committed to the health of cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people. We’re also partnering with hospital and primary health care partners in Toronto to provide innovative and holistic health services.
Person-centered care @ HQ
Mental health
Cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people experience higher rates of mental health issues and substance use challenges; childhood trauma, stigma, homophobia, and social isolation often create barriers for us. By caring for our mental health, HQ will improve outcomes for the whole community.
Sexual health
HQ offers innovative STI testing, express HIV testing and treatment, as well as private facilities for STI self-swabbing.
Social health
As a community hub, HQ offers group rooms that will allow cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people into guys to see HQ as home. A community space for poetry and book clubs, art events and coffee nights.
Community- A place where people come together
HQ will be a community gathering space that hosts social events. We’ll create a space where cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people support one another and enhance their well-being. We will strengthen community, foster a sense of belonging, reduce social isolation and loneliness, and make a particular effort to reach people who are vulnerable or marginalized.
Inclusivity- HQ means inclusion
HQ believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity. We will actively engage cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people as staff, peers and volunteers and encourage them to use their lived experience to shape our services. We will provide a welcoming, accepting space, free of judgement and discrimination, where we see ourselves and our cultures reflected in the people planning, delivering and receiving hub services.
Compassion- A space for cis guys into guys and all trans and non-binary people
HQ will approach its work with empathy, respect and compassion. We’ll create a welcoming space that supports cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary peoples in their unique journeys. Ours is an affirming, sex-positive, shame-free, bullying-free space we are free to celebrate our identities with pride and confidence.
Strength-based- Stronger together
We acknowledge the strengths and lived realities of cis guys into guys and two-spirit, transgender and non-binary people, and we will tailor our services to each person’s unique needs and experiences. Our health services are affirming, evidence-based, strengths-based and trauma-informed. We listen and we learn. We strive to use the best available knowledge and experience to help cis guys into guys and trans people into guys build resilience and reduce harm.
