SURGE isn't your average LGBTQIA+ training.

Hi! I'm Sarah, one of the SURGE planning committee members and the Communications Manager at MOASH.
 
Before my time at MOASH, I spent nearly six years in a clinical role as a peer through CMH. This job meant the world to me. As I worked towards my social work degree, it was not lost on me that I learned more through supervisors with years of wisdom and experience, practice, and hearing from the youth on my caseload.
 
But one thing was clear: there was a gap. Every year, we'd have a wonderful 101 presentation on LGBTQIA+ youth. As a queer person myself, I didn't really need definitons or basic guidance. I wanted, and needed, more.
 
I thought often of my blind spots, of the need to learn tangible support practices, and of the identities most centered (and most left out) of these trainings. These 101s are important. But so is going beyond a 101.
 
This stayed with me. And then, as I graduated with my BSW and wrapped up a year-long internship at MOASH, I wondered: what if MOASH could facilitate something like this? MOASH's trainings were regularly sought after by clinical staff and I knew there was a need. MOASH's youth-integrated values aligned with my peer work. Less than two years later, the SURGE planning committee was in full swing.
 
SURGE was designed to give you more. Leading experts across the state worked alongside young people to ensure every training is what they want you to know and what you want to know.
 
SURGE 2025 was a day full of joy, connection, learning, and community. We can't wait to have you join us at SURGE 2026.