Welcome to Rainbow Connected, a proudly queer-owned small business dedicated to fostering inclusivity, equity, and understanding in every aspect of life and work. We specialize in providing comprehensive education, training, workshops, talks, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) consulting services, all centered around LGBTQ+ topics and broader equity issues.
Rainbow Connected is certified as an LGBTQ-owned business by The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
Our Mission
At Rainbow Connected, our mission is to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. We believe that education and open dialogue are powerful tools for breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive world. Our goal is to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills they need to create an equitable culture.
What We Offer
Education, Training, and Workshops: Our tailored educational trainings and workshops are designed to increase awareness and understanding of a wide range of LGBTQ+-related topics. Our interactive workshops provide participants with the opportunity to build and practice skills for creating inclusive environments, and receive personalized answers to any questions they might have. From beginner sessions to advanced trainings, our workshops can be tailored for all levels of knowledge, experience, age, and size.
Speaking Engagements: As a speaker, AJ brings personal and professional expertise (and a ton of passion!) to every engagement. Whether it's a conference, panel discussion, or community event, we deliver compelling presentations that inspire and educate.
DEI and Queer-Owned Business Consulting: We offer personalized consulting services to help organizations develop and implement effective diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. Our approach is collaborative, data-driven, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Educational Resources: We are committed to being a continuous resource for learning and staying informed about LGBTQ+ topics. Our website features a curated selection of articles, guides, and toolkits covering a wide range of LGBTQ+ topics. Whether you're looking to learn the basics or explore more advanced concepts, our resources are here to support your journey and deepen your understanding.
LGBTQ+ Community News: Stay informed with our regular updates on LGBTQ+ related news and issues. From policy changes and legal advancements to cultural events and community stories, we provide timely and relevant information to keep you connected and informed. Explore our resources and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, because informed allies and advocates are essential to creating a more inclusive world.
Why Choose Us?
AJ is a knowledgeable professional with lived experience as a queer and transgender person and an extensive background in LGBTQ+ advocacy, support, and DEI work. AJ holds a master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University, where they completed a certificate in Child and Adolescent Well-Being and an Area of Emphasis in Gender and Sexuality. As a current doctoral candidate in social work at Rutgers University, AJ conducts research focused on improving support for LGBTQ+ youth and their parents, making mental health care more accessible and affirming for people in “non-traditional” relationships, and increasing education around gender-affirming healthcare. AJ also teaches the course Sexual and Gender Diversity in Social Work to Rutgers University graduate students.
AJ works full-time at the nonprofit organization HiTOPS, where they run several support groups for queer and transgender youth and their families, provide affirming mental health care and referrals, and create a welcoming and supportive environment for youth of all identities. They have previous experience as a school social worker, a high school teacher, and a clinician providing individual and relational therapy.
Get in Touch
We invite you to join us on this journey towards a more inclusive and equitable world. Whether you're looking to educate yourself, your team, or your community, Rainbow Connected is here to help. Contact us today at rainbowconnectedllc@gmail.com to learn more about our services and how we can work together to make a difference.
