Resource Navigation
We know that accessing resources on and off campus isn’t as simple as receiving a referral. In order to ensure that every student has true access to key healthcare, legal, wellness, and community resources on and off campus, the LGBTQA Resource Center uses a model called “Resource Navigation.” Resource Navigation combines referrals with coaching, skill-sharing, direct resourcing, and mentorship from a group of student Peer Resource Navigators (PRNs) and the Center’s LGBTQA Resource Center staff in order to provide support that is longitudinal, responsive, accessible, and adaptive.
Working collaboratively with students, our staff and PRNs demystify complex processes like legal document updates, insurance claims, gender-affirming health care processes, and more; beyond that, we help students directly access key resources for wellness and belonging on campus–such as the Center’s Affirmation Access Project, care available at UHCS, support from campus partners at OPEN and WeCare, and a range of drop-in support services offered at the Center. Whether you’re looking for help with an NU name change, styling and makeup consultations from a supportive peer, information on making the most of the NUSHP health plan, or something else, we are here to collaborate with you and support you.
FAQs
Q: Is Resource Navigation at the LGBTQA Resource Center for LGBTQIA2S+ students only?
A: No, we are here to support any student who feels that the services offered by the Center are relevant to their well-being on campus. We have expertise in areas like insurance coverage, legal name changes, confidential STI testing, and local healthcare options that are broadly applicable to many students on campus. If you think we might be able to assist you, please reach out!
Q: What is the Affirmation Access Project?
A: The Affirmation Access Project is a set of free gender-affirming wellness resources open to any student on the Boston campus. Read more here.
Q: Can faculty and staff access Resource Navigation at the LGBTQA Resource Center?
A: No, our Resource Navigation services are currently only available to students. We recommend that staff and faculty connect to the LGBTQA Fac/Staff Affinity group for support.
Q: What’s the difference between Resource Navigation and the Center’s guide to campus, local, and national resources?
A: Resource Navigation conversations often involve referrals to resources included in our resource guide; however, Resource Navigation goes beyond simple referrals by creating structured supports for students to functionally access those resources.
Q: Is Resource Navigation open to students studying on campuses other than the Boston campus?
A: Yes! While we may ultimately connect you to a staff member on your primary campus, our staff and PRNs are here to provide most Resource Navigation services to students from across the Northeastern Global Network. Please note that the Affirmation Access Project is currently limited to students who are enrolled on the Boston Campus.
Our Resource Guide
These resources in and beyond the Boston area offer services, support, community, information, and care for LGBTQIA2S+ people. Resources included on this list have in most cases self-identified as having a commitment to serving LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Northeastern has not assessed, nor does it endorse, these resources. The Center encourages community members to conduct their own research and to follow their instincts when interacting with these resources.
DISCLAIMER
The information posted on this web site is for the informational and educational use of members of the Northeastern University community. Please note that links on this web page may lead to web sites maintained by persons, agencies, or organizations over which the University has no authority or control and the University makes no representations about the content of any material located on or through those websites.
