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Val Hogan

The "Why" Behind Layers of Change

The ignition for Layers of Change was not a single monumental event, but a series of subtle indignities that culminated in a moment of discrimination. This is not just my story, but a personal whisper in our collective shout in the dark, one I'm eager to share in this first blog post.


The journey began years ago when, in a time of need, I was turned away from a church clothing drive. As a trans woman, I was told the clothes were "not for me." This rejection was more than a mere act of unkindness—it was a spit in the face at my lowest moment.


A critical turning point emerged when I sought out community-specific resources, only to confront operational barriers that made access impossible. It wasn't about the frocks, my darlings; it was about seeing the unseen, the souls society lets slip through the cracks over what? A businesses logistical "handout" schedule? It was a wake-up call to the ease with which individuals can slip through the cracks of basic care services.


Thus, the concept of Layers of Change was born—not merely out of frustration but from a resolute determination to bridge the gaps I had personally encountered. Our aim was to transcend the limitations of a traditional clothing closet, envisioning a resource that addressed the intersecting needs of individuals holistically.Picture a closet on wheels, offering not just apparel but the armament for love and survival: safer sex supplies, harm reduction kits, and a treasure map to the hidden gems in our community. Because, my dears, finding help shouldn't be more challenging than walking in heels on Richmond's cobblestone roads.


As we have embarked on the journey to bring "Layers of Change RVA" to life, navigating bureaucratic hurdles, forging partnerships, and developing a nonprofit framework, we are driven by the knowledge that countless others share similar stories of hardship—stories often invisible to the wider world. Our mission is to alleviate some of that hardship, sparking a sense of possibility in others, and supporting our TGNC siblings.


In my heart-to-hearts with other community members in need, I've seen my reflection in their eyes. This journey is not mine alone but ours. Layers of Change RVA strives to become more than a nonprofit; it's a beacon of hope for those who have been marginalized and overlooked.


In the foundational stages of "Layers of Change RVA," our vision has expanded well beyond the initial concept of a mobile clothing closet to encompass a more comprehensive approach to support. Recognizing the multifaceted challenges our community faces, we committed to providing not only clothing but also safer sex supplies, harm reduction kits, and personalized resource lists for our clients.


This holistic strategy acknowledges the complex, intersecting needs of the individuals we aim to serve, often overlooked by conventional service models. By incorporating safer sex supplies and harm reduction kits, we affirm the importance of sexual health and support individuals in making healthier choices. More importantly, the personalized resource lists we compile are not mere directories; they are thoughtfully curated guides that connect our clients with essential services tailored to their specific needs.


Layers of Change transcends material support, embodying our dedication to empowering individuals with the tools, information, and resources necessary for their well-being. As we grow and learn from our community, we remain committed to evolving our services to meet the diverse needs of those we aim to support. Through this comprehensive approach, we aspire not just to mitigate immediate hardships but to cultivate a sense of autonomy and potential among our clients.


Our mission is deeply rooted in an understanding of the intricate needs within our community and a commitment to addressing them in a respectful, empowering manner. As Layers of Change progresses, we are guided by the belief that change is multifaceted, with each layer being crucial to fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and resilient community. Together, we embark on this journey, layer by layer, transforming narratives of discrimination and dismissal into stories of empowerment and change.

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