Ascension
Ascension is the flagship program of OUR Story Institute — a 12-week guided experience designed to support trans women as they move from survival to stability and into leadership.
Structured in phases, the program begins with stabilization, connecting participants to essential resources such as housing support, healthcare, wellness services, and safety planning. From there, participants move into development, where they engage in guided curriculum focused on goal setting, workforce readiness, life planning, and personal growth.
As participants build stability and confidence, Ascension transitions into leadership, supporting individuals in stepping into advocacy, mentorship, and community leadership roles.
Throughout the program, participants are supported through a cohort-based model that centers community, accountability, and shared experience.
In addition to curriculum, Ascension provides access to a growing network of verified partners and service providers, ensuring participants are not navigating systems alone. The program is designed to be both structured and adaptable, meeting individuals where they are while supporting long-term progress.
Ascension reflects OUR Story Institute’s commitment to creating clear, supported pathways toward stability, self-determination, and leadership within the community.
OUR FOCUS AREAS
Leadership Development
Programs designed to cultivate confidence, skills, and community leadership among LGBTQIA+ individuals, with a focus on uplifting Black and trans women of color as visible leaders in their communities.
Resource Navigation
Connecting participants with trusted services including housing, healthcare, wellness support, and workforce development through a verified network of partners.
Community Empowerment
Creating spaces where LGBTQIA+ voices — particularly those of Black and trans women of color — are centered, supported, and elevated.
Partnership Network
Collaborating with organizations, advocates, and service providers to strengthen pathways of support across multiple sectors.
What We're building
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What We're building *
OUR Story Institute is actively expanding a model designed to provide long-term support, leadership development, and access to opportunity across LGBTQIA+ communities.
While Ascension represents our initial program, our broader vision includes the development of additional pathways that deepen impact, strengthen community connections, and expand access to essential resources.
We are building toward a scalable framework that can be adapted across multiple communities while remaining rooted in care, accountability, and lived experience.
→ View Our Vision & Growth