In a world where trans youth are told they don't belong, we're creating a space where they can simply be kids.

Transcending Adolescence is more than a summer camp—it's a lifeline. Operating in the mountains of North Carolina, we provide a weeklong retreat where transgender and nonbinary youth ages 8-17 can swim without worrying about being stared at, learn advocacy skills from trans adults who've walked this path, and build the resilience they need to survive and thrive.

Founded by Chrissy and Jacob Hofheimer, a married trans couple who met as lifeguards at another trans camp, we built our program around SPEAR—support, physical recreation, education, advocacy, and reflection—the five pillars that help trans youth become resilient adults. From morning announcements by the lake to campfire conversations about navigating dysphoria and building healthy relationships, every moment is intentionally designed to equip young people with tools for survival.

The need is urgent. According to The Trevor Project, 46 percent of transgender and nonbinary youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, while 90 percent said their well-being has been negatively impacted by recent politics. For many of our campers, this week of safety and community is the difference between isolation and hope.

"Transcending Adolescence legit saved my life," says Jared, a 15-year-old camper from Texas who arrived angry and left transformed. His father describes watching self-hatred "melt off even just over a week."

Your donation keeps these transformations possible. Every dollar helps us:

Provide full scholarships so no child is turned away for financial need
Transport campers via charter bus and partnerships with Elevated Access for free flights
Maintain strict security protocols to protect our highly targeted population
Hire certified trans staff and junior counselors who are former campers
Pursue American Camp Association accreditation—making us the first exclusively trans overnight camp in the country to achieve this standard

This summer, we're aiming for 42 campers with capacity for 66. We're already seeing record early registrations, proof that families are desperate for affirming spaces where their children can feel safe.

Trans kids deserve programs that meet industry standards. They deserve to feel like they're not being hunted anymore. They deserve a week that changes everything.

Join us this Give OUT Day in building resilience, one camper at a time.

Give Out Day