In the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ+ advocacy, individuals like Shannon Ashley stand out as guiding lights, tirelessly working to create safe spaces and foster inclusion for all. With a deep-rooted commitment to Trans rights and the gender non-conforming community, Shannon's journey from a small town in Pulaski County, KY, to becoming a beacon of change in Lexington spans over two decades. Shannon is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, creating safe spaces and inclusion for all. She is an advocate for Trans rights and for those who are gender non-conforming.  Shannon has called Lexington home for the past 20+ years. Originally from a small town in Pulaski County, KY., they identify as nonbinary, trans femme and uses They/She pronouns. Over the last 6+ years they have organized or assisted in numerous events, fundraisers and drag shows. These have raised thousands of dollars for charities locally and nationally, many of them being LGBTQ+ charities.
 
 
Passion for LGBTQIA+ Youths
 
Shannon's passion for LGBTQIA+ youths stems from a profound understanding of the transformative power of affirming activities. Recognizing the importance of providing safe spaces where young individuals can experience queer joy without fear of judgment or discrimination, Shannon is dedicated to championing their inclusion in such activities.
 
Direct Impact through Events and Programs
 
As a pivotal member of the leadership team at Camp Beacon, Shannon has been instrumental in organizing events directly impacting LGBTQIA+ youths. From spearheading fundraising efforts to ensure the success of the inaugural Summer Camp for Kentucky LGBTQIA+ youth to planning subsequent sessions, Shannon's dedication knows no bounds.
 
Impactful Moments
 
For Shannon, the most impactful moments arise from the testimonials of campers who find solace and belonging at Camp Beacon. Quotes like, "Camp Beacon was a home to me, and will forever be in my mind," encapsulate the essence of the positive change these programs bring, fueling Shannon's determination to continue making a difference.
 
Future Evolution of Programs
 
Looking ahead, Shannon envisions the expansion of Camp Beacon to accommodate a larger number of campers and host multiple sessions, thereby reaching more LGBTQIA+ youths and providing them with life-changing experiences.
 
Getting Involved
 
To those seeking to support LGBTQIA+ youth, Shannon emphasizes the importance of being proactive. Whether through fundraising, donations, or volunteering, every contribution plays a vital role in enriching the lives of young individuals and fostering a more inclusive society.
 
A Call to Action
 
Beyond Camp Beacon, Shannon sheds light on another crucial initiative—the "Kentucky LGBTQ+ Health & Wellness Fair." This event, born out of the necessity for comprehensive resources, aims to provide affirming healthcare services and support, including legal assistance and name change clinics, for individuals of all ages.
 
Shannon Ashley's unwavering dedication to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and creating affirming spaces for youths resonates as a testament to the power of compassion and activism. Through initiatives like Camp Beacon and the Kentucky LGBTQ+ Health & Wellness Fair, Shannon continues to inspire others to join the fight for equality and inclusion. Let us stand together in solidarity with Shannon and the LGBTQ+ community, striving towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

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At the heart of every community lies a desire for inclusivity and support. This rings especially true for LGBTQIA+ youths who often seek spaces where they can express themselves freely without fear of judgment or discrimination. Dakota Skies and Rayven Lee Maharis, passionate advocates for the youth, have taken this sentiment to heart, channeling their own experiences and interests into creating a safe haven for young performers through the Future Faces program.

                                             Finding Passion in Youth Inclusion

When asked about their passion for LGBTQIA+ youths and their inclusion in affirming activities, Dakota reflects on their own journey as a teenager with a unique passion for swing dancing. They vividly recall the joy of connecting with peers who shared their interests during events outside their hometown. This sense of belonging and excitement persisted into adulthood, leading Dakota to teach and judge youth events in the swing dance community. Later, as Dakota transitioned into performing as a drag queen and lip sync artist, they felt compelled to share their newfound passion with the younger generation.

                                             Igniting Change Through Inspiration

The inception of the Future Faces program was sparked by Dakota's viewing of a documentary highlighting Dragutante, an annual event in Denver where youth collaborate with established drag queens for a performance. Inspired by this model, Dakota envisioned a similar initiative in their own community, driven by a desire to provide a platform for young performers to explore their creativity and identity in a supportive environment.

                                           Impactful Moments and Revelations

Reflecting on their journey, Dakota and Rayven finds the creativity and confidence exhibited by the youths most impactful. Witnessing their fearlessness and self-assurance on stage serves as a testament to the support they receive, both within the program and in their home lives. Dakota and Rayven marvel at the resilience and resilience of these performers, acknowledging the profound influence of nurturing environments on their development.

                                Overcoming Resistance with Community Support

Despite initial concerns about facing resistance, Dakota, Rayven, and the Future Faces program have been met with overwhelming support from the community. This positive reception has fostered a sense of unity and collaboration, with individuals stepping forward to offer assistance and resources to further the program's mission.

                                      Envisioning the Future of Inclusivity

Looking ahead, Dakota and Rayven envisions Future Faces continuing to provide a monthly platform for young performers while exploring opportunities to expand into additional initiatives, such as creating sober spaces for adults within the queer community. By addressing the need for inclusive venues, Dakota aims to cultivate safe spaces that cater to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

                                                       Joining the Movement

For those interested in getting involved, Dakota and Rayven encourage youths under the age of 21 who are passionate about performing to reach out and become part of the Future Faces family. Whether it's taking the stage or offering support behind the scenes, there are countless ways to contribute to the program's mission of empowerment and inclusion.

                                                            Stay Connected

To stay updated on upcoming events and show your support, follow the Future Faces Facebook page. Dakota, Rayven and the entire Future Faces team look forward to welcoming you to one of their upcoming shows and celebrating the diversity and talent of LGBTQIA+ youths in their community.