LOFT Calendar
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Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at 07:30 PM
VIRTUAL(V): Writers Workshop
Have you ever thought about writing creatively, and would like feedback on your creative project? Do you have a novel, short story, poem, or play inside of you that you've been developing? Come and join our workshop and receive the support and feedback that can help you get to that next level with your creative project!
CALLING ALL LGBTQ+ WRITERS!
WHEN: The 3rd Wednesday of the month from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom link
CONTACT: [email protected] or call The LOFT's helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 with any questions!
Check out our new RESOURCES page listed with opportunities to publish your work, click here!
HOW IT WORKS:
- The Writers Workshop has become a VIRTUAL PROGRAM (with some selected times in the year for in-person gatherings).
- Workshops are held every 3rd Wednesday of each month from 7:30-9:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. (Please note there are exceptions.)
- If you are looking to have your work reviewed, you need to submit your work by no later than the 2nd Wednesday and participate in the critique process. (For new submissions please email [email protected] no later than 6:00 PM ET to receive the link to submit before midnight)
- Submitting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month gives everyone a week to read all the submissions and produce critiques for everyone's work. Once you submit your work, you too will receive access to the submissions where you will also need to prepare a brief critique on every piece of work submitted. (You'll also receive a guide for writing critiques--it's really easy and a quick read). We have also recently added an "early bird submission" for those writers who want to submit longer than 6 pages. It's due on the 1st Wednesday of the month, giving readers two weeks to review their work.
- That 3rd Wednesday we will all meet and collectively review everyone's submission, writer by a writer. Everyone will have a chance to weigh in and offer their assessment in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. All writers who submit work for review are required to also attend, participate, and produce critiques for all other submissions to receive their critiques and feedback.
WHAT CAN YOU SUBMIT?
The Writers Workshop accepts most creative projects including but not limited to fiction novels, non-fiction, memoirs, essays, short stories, poetry, comic strips, screenplays, etc... The most common work that has been submitted by writers is fiction projects (novels and short stories) and poetry. While not a requirement, we do encourage submissions to contain LGBTQ+ themes. One of the great benefits of LGBTQ+ writing spaces is receiving feedback from writers who are centered on an LGBTQ+ identity and can offer insight and perspective that can enhance the quality of your project. Please note the submission length will vary from month to month.
It's my first time and I'm ready to submit my work...WHAT DO I DO?
First, double-check your submission:
- Is your name somewhere on the manuscript?
- Does it correspond to the submission standards: length, font size, double-space, and standard margins? Please do not try to manipulate your document to squeeze in extra content. This is highly inconsiderate towards your fellow writers. You are asking them to spend more time and resources on your work than on theirs. If your work does not follow the guidelines, you may be at risk of having it sent back to you and asked to have it conform to the standards laid out (you will still have to meet the established timelines for submission). Don't risk it, follow the guidelines.
- Once you've ensured that your work meets the submission standards e-mail [email protected] and let him know you're ready to submit your work. He will then supply you with a link to access the shared folder where writers upload their work. You will only need to do this one time, afterward, you should have access to the shared folder.
Submission Confirmation
- On the second Thursday, the day after submissions are due, the facilitator will send all writers who submitted a confirmation that details all the work that each writer is responsible for reading and reviewing for the workshop.
- Reviews are oral and given at the workshop. No need to write them out, unless you would like.
- Our submissions also operate on a sliding scale. The way the sliding scale works is everyone submits a max of 1650 words. If more than 5 people have submitted by the end of the 2nd Wednesday of the month (submission deadline) there will be no increases in submission length. If 4 people or fewer submit, writers will be given a 24-hour extension to add additional content based on the number of submissions. The facilitator will determine the new amount of content that can be added and will share it in the confirmation process. It's completely optional, the writer can leave their submission as is, or opt to add additional content within that new 24-hour window. Specific Instructions will be provided for that particular workshop by the facilitator.
Workshop Participation
- Attendance & participation is mandatory if you have submitted work for review. You are also expected to offer commentary and critique that demonstrates you have read the material of others and have given it some thought and consideration.
- Workshop Critiques: No need to write a dissertation or give a 20-minute explanation. Rather, try to distill at least three key observations on what was strongest about the piece, the weakest, and something else that caught your attention. That's the sweet spot as everyone else will offer their insight to complete the bigger picture analysis.
- Please remember all of this relies on everyone showing up and doing their part. Other writers are giving up their time and resources to help your craft grow--please do the same and in the same amount asked.
Submission Standards
**IMPORTANT: PLEASE read the submission guidelines carefully. Failure to comply with the length and standards can result in a return of your submission.**
Sliding Scale Submission Length: 1,650 Words *
PLEASE Double Space and use 12 pt. font
(Does not include a brief paragraph that summarizes/explains work-200 word limit)
* The way the sliding scale works is everyone submits a max of 1650 words. If more than 5 people have submitted by the end of the 2nd Wednesday of the month (submission deadline) there will be no increases in submission length. If 4 people or fewer submit, writers will be given a 24-hour extension to add additional content based on the number of submissions. It's completely optional, the writer can leave their submission as is, or opt to add additional content within that new 24-hour window. Specific Instructions will be provided for that particular workshop by the facilitator.
2024 Workshop Schedule
Workshop Month Submission Due Date
second Wednesday/month:Workshop (7:30 pm-9:00 pm) EST-3rd Wednesday/month: December 2023 December 13th December 20th January 2024 January 10th January 17th February 2024 February 14th February 21st March 2024 March 13th March 20th
LOFT Social Groups are open groups that welcome everyone ages 18 and over. Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
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Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 05:30 PM
VIRTUAL(V): C.A.L.M - Centered at LOFT Meditation
Discover tranquility at C.A.L.M. - Centered at LOFT Meditation, a welcoming group within The LOFT community. Step into a space where individuals from all walks of life can come together to unwind and recenter their minds.
Immerse yourself in a diverse range of soothing meditations, from calming breath exercises to guided sessions, mindfulness practices, and enchanting mantras. C.A.L.M. offers a unique blend of techniques designed to cater to various preferences, ensuring that everyone finds their path to inner peace.
This inter-generational program is part of Silver Connections, The LOFT's initiative for LGBTQ+ community members aged 55 and above. However, this inclusive meditation experience is open to individuals of all ages, 18 and older. Join us as we create a harmonious space to foster well-being and connection within our vibrant community.
WHEN: Every Thursday evening from 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom link
CONTACT: Call The LOFT's Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 if you have any questions about the group!
The LOFT and Queery volunteer James Young facilitates this group. To learn more about James and Queery, click here.
LOFT Social Groups are open groups that welcome everyone ages 18 and over. Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 07:30 PM
VIRTUAL(V): Mental Health Peer Support Group
The LGBTQ+ Mental Health Peer Support Group is for members of the LGBTQ+ community, ages 18 and over, who are living with a mental health condition, either diagnosed or undiagnosed.
WHEN: The 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PMWHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom linkCONTACT: Email [email protected] or call The LOFT's Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 if you have any questions about the group!
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LOFT Peer Support Groups are open-topic drop-in groups. They are led by facilitators who identify as peers with those in attendance.
There is no fee to attend discussion groups but a $5 donation is suggested, more if you can, less if you can’t. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Friday, April 19, 2024 at 06:30 PM
The LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center in White Plains, NY(IP): LGBTQ+ Youth Night
LGBTQ+ Youth Night is a youth-only social & support space for LGBTQ+ and allied youth in 5th-12th grades. Come out to meet new friends & have fun! Free pizza and snacks are provided. Provided in partnership with The LOFT LGBTQ+ Center and WJCS Center Lane.
WHEN: The 1st & 3rd Fridays of the month from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
WHO: LGBTQ+ and allied youth in 5th-12th grades
WHERE: The LOFT LGBTQ+ Center: 252 Bryant Ave, White Plains, NY 10605
CONTACT: For questions, contact The LOFT: [email protected] or WJCS Center Lane: [email protected]
Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
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Friday, April 19, 2024 at 07:30 PM
VIRTUAL(V): Lesbian Social Network (LSN)
The Lesbian Social Network (LSN) is an open-topic group run by a trained peer facilitator for women. Ages 18 and older, who identify as lesbian, bisexual, queer, or are questioning their sexuality.
WHEN: Every Friday evening from 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom link
CONTACT: Email [email protected] or call The LOFT's Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 if you have any questions about the group!
LOFT Peer Support Groups are open-topic, drop-in groups. Groups are led by facilitators who identify as peers with those in attendance.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:00 AM
VIRTUAL(V): Queer Community Book Club
Using books written by people who identify themselves within queer communities, Queer Community Book Club (QCBC) aims to deepen our sense of community and ourselves in a queer-centric space. QCBC is a free program that is cosponsored by Queery and The LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center.
WHEN: Every Saturday from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom link
CONTACT: For questions, contact The LOFT at [email protected]
To get updates on QCBC follow us on IG @queercommunitybookclub
To learn more about Queery click here.
LOFT Social Groups are open groups that welcome everyone ages 18 and over. Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Louis Engel Waterfront Park in Ossining, NY(IP): The Artists LOFT
The Artists LOFT is a fun night out to let your creativity flow. Come and meet new people and each month experience a different art project and adventure. No artistic experience is necessary, this is a judgement-free zone and materials will be provided. The Artists LOFT is facilitated by The LOFT's Creatives Rebuild New York Artist-In-Residence Sphynxx and will feature a monthly art night at The LOFT. The group will also host a monthly art-related outing. Dates and times for these will vary from month to month.
The Artists LOFT is free to participate in, donations are always welcome. Costs associated with the monthly art outings will be the responsibility of each attendee.
APRIL OUTING
- Green Ossining's 14th Annual Earth Day Festival -
Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in a day overflowing with eco-discovery, artistic inspiration, and green community spirit. This rain-or-shine event is the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge on reducing your environmental impact and waste. It's a day to celebrate our planet, learn valuable skills, and connect with like-minded folks who share your passion for a sustainable future.
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, at 10:00 AM
WHERE: Louis Engel Waterfront Park 25 Westerly Rd, Ossining, NY 10562
TICKETS: FREE!!
CONTACT: Sphynxx, CRNY Artist in Residence, at [email protected] or (914)-948-2932 extension 18
LOFT Social Groups are open groups that welcome everyone ages 18 and over. Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 06:00 PM
VIRTUAL(V): Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an open and supportive group of people seeking to handle and recover from their problematic drinking.
WHEN: AA meets weekly on Saturday evenings from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please find Zoom link below
CONTACT: For questions, contact The LOFT: [email protected]
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Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 01:00 PM
VIRTUAL(V): Grief and Loss Discussion Group
A discussion/support group on Grief and Loss at The LOFT. This is an ongoing series of discussions with J Cruz, MSW/MSEd. Pre-registration is not required. Throughout our lives, we experience all sorts of types of loss such as a partner, family member, pet, job, health, relationship, etc. This discussion and support group is for members of the LGBTQ+ community to have a safe space to grieve and discuss the feelings of loss they are experiencing.
WHEN: The 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays of the month from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
WHERE: Virtual meeting - please register below to access the Zoom link
CONTACT: Call The LOFT's Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 if you have any questions about the group!
LOFT Social Groups are open groups that welcome everyone ages 18 and over. Groups are led by members of the LGBTQ+ and allied communities.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
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Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 01:30 PM
The LOFT: LGBTQ+ Community Center in White Plains, NY(IP): The Rainbow Clubhouse
The Rainbow Clubhouse is a group at The LOFT for families of young, gender-expansive children up to age 12. The group features a support group for parents/guardians and a structured play group for children.
WHEN: The 3rd Sunday of the month from 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
WHERE: Please register below to access the location for this group. Once registered, you will be emailed the location.
CONTACT: [email protected]or (914)-948-2932 extension 13 with any questions!
Please Note: To maintain the privacy of our children and protect our families, The LOFT has developed an intake process for new families joining this group. Please fill out the intake form HERE.
Siblings of your gender-expansive child are also allowed to attend the children's play group. Infants must remain with their parents at all times.
LOFT Peer Support Groups are open-topic, drop-in groups. Groups are led by facilitators who identify as peers with those in attendance.
Donations are welcome. Suggested donation is $5; more if you can, less if you can't. Fees related to activities are the responsibility of participants.
Group Format
The Rainbow Clubhouse is a safe-space support group for families of gender-expansive children, up to age 12, and will feature two side-by-side groups.
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Playgroup for youth up to age 12:
- The Playgroup is a safe social space for children to play, interact with peers, and be themselves. Discussions within the playgroup are not solely focused on topics such as gender, feelings or bullying. Instead, playgroup participants are given a safe environment to develop friendships through common playtime activities.
- The Playgroup is overseen by a professional with 20+ years of childcare experience, and an additional, experienced adult.
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Parent/Guardian group:
- The Parent/Guardian group features a unique opportunity for families to gain support and connection to others with similar experiences. Some topics that may be discussed in this group include: talking to extended family, navigating school systems, and finding affirming professionals/resources.
- The Parent/Guardian group is facilitated by a LOFT staff member with experience working with families of trans youth. Meetings may also feature guest speakers and reading lists of gender-affirming books for adults & youth.
Definitions
Gender-Expansive can be defined as: An adjective used to describe people that identify or express themselves in ways that broaden the culturally defined behavior or expression associated with one gender.
-According to Welcoming Schools: A program of the Human Rights Campaign
The meeting space is a nut-free facility.
View all groups on our calendar!
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Playgroup for youth up to age 12:
