New Resource: A Guide to Rest and Resistance Supports LGBTQIA2S+ Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
From the left, Chelsie Holmes, Hannah Kaufmann
Better Tomorrow is proud to share a new resource created through the collaboration of Chelsie Holmes (she/they), Program Director of Queer Futures, and Hannah Kaufmann (she/her), former Program Director of Advocates of Routt County.
A Guide to Rest and Resistance was developed to help organizations create trauma-informed, culturally responsive support groups for LGBTQIA2S+ survivors of intimate partner violence. The guide recognizes that while many survivor services exist, LGBTQIA2S+ people often face unique barriers to accessing support, including discrimination, misunderstanding, and a lack of spaces where their identities and experiences are fully affirmed.
Built on the belief that healing happens in community, the guide combines evidence-based advocacy with restorative practices, mutual aid, and LGBTQIA2S+ lived experiences. It offers practical tools for facilitators, including guidance on creating safer spaces, developing group agreements, increasing accessibility, conducting survivor-centered screening, and leading meaningful conversations around trauma, healthy relationships, boundaries, human trafficking, and collective healing.
One of the guide's central messages is reflected in its name: rest is essential for healing, and resistance is a powerful form of survival. It encourages organizations to move beyond simply being inclusive and toward creating spaces where LGBTQIA2S+ survivors feel seen, heard, believed, and empowered to shape their own healing.
“Rest is essential for healing, and resistance is a powerful form of survival.”
We are incredibly proud of Chelsie and Hannah for bringing their expertise, compassion, and leadership together to create a resource that can benefit communities far beyond the Yampa Valley.
Whether you're a domestic violence advocate, LGBTQIA2S+ organization, mental health professional, or community leader, we invite you to explore A Guide to Rest and Resistance and consider how its principles can strengthen support for LGBTQIA2S+ survivors in your own community.