MPJ Guardian Angel Program
Introduction to the
Guardian Angel Program
At the Marsha P. Johnson LGBTQ+ Youth Drop-In Center, we believe every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are. That’s why we’ve created the Guardian Angel Program — a community-powered initiative that connects our youth with compassionate, vetted adults who are ready to step in when help is needed most.
Guardian Angels are caring individuals we can call on when a young person is in need — whether it’s a warm meal, clean clothes, school supplies, or simply the resources to help them feel confident and valued. These essentials are more than just physical items; they are tools to combat bullying, abuse, and the emotional toll of being misunderstood or marginalized.
By becoming a Guardian Angel, you’re not just giving — you’re showing up. You’re letting our youth know they are not alone, that someone sees them, believes in them, and is willing to stand beside them in love and solidarity.
Together, we are building a circle of care, resilience, and hope — one act of kindness at a time.
Guardian Angel Program
Purpose
The Guardian Angel Program exists to provide timely, compassionate, and affirming support to LGBTQ+ youth in need. Through this initiative, vetted adult volunteers—our Guardian Angels—are called upon to help meet immediate and essential needs such as
food, clothing, school supplies, hygiene items, and affirming materials that build self-esteem and resilience.
Guardian Angel Program
Core Values
• Affirmation: Every youth is worthy of dignity, respect, and love.
• Safety: We prioritize physical and emotional safety for both youth and volunteers.
• Equity: We provide support without bias or discrimination.
• Responsiveness: We act promptly when a need arises.
• Community: This program is a bridge between compassionate adults andvulnerable youth.
Guardian Angels agree to:
• Respond to calls for assistance based on their availability and capacity.
• Provide items or resources that are clean, safe, age-appropriate, and affirming.
• Respect the confidentiality and privacy of youth at all times.
• Communicate clearly with program coordinators regarding availability, delivery
methods, and any concerns.
• Operate within the boundaries of the program (no direct contact with youth unless
pre-approved and supervised).
• Complete required onboarding and training.
Guardian Angels do not:
• Act as mentors, case workers, or crisis responders unless otherwise trained and
approved.
• Share personal contact information directly with youth.
• Engage in any activity that compromises the safety, identity, or well-being of the
youth or themselves.
Request & Fulfillment Process
Request Initiated:
A staff member identifies a youth in need and submits a request to the Guardian Angel Coordinator.
Volunteer Match:
The coordinator sends an alert to available Guardian Angels via text or email, detailing the need and urgency (no identifying youth info is shared).
Response:
Guardian Angels respond within 24 hours if they are able to fulfill the request. First to confirm is matched.
Fulfillment & Delivery:
a. Items are either delivered to the Drop-In Center or picked up by staff (no direct delivery to youth unless specifically approved & arranged). b. All items should be clean, unexpired (if perishable), and inclusive. c. Gift cards may be accepted as a flexible form of support.
Confirmation & Tracking:
Staff confirm receipt of the items and update the Guardian Angel on completion. All transactions are logged for transparency.
Eligibility & Onboarding
To become a Guardian Angel, individuals must:
• Be 25 years of age or older.
• Submit a volunteer application and pass a background check.
• Attend a 90-minute training session focused on LGBTQ+ youth, trauma-informed
care, and program guidelines.
• Sign the Guardian Angel Agreement, including a confidentiality and conduct policy.
Communication Guidelines
• All communication between Guardian Angels and staff should occur through official program channels (email, phone, or volunteer portal).
• Any concerns or boundary issues must be reported immediately to the Guardian Angel Coordinator.
• Respect the emotional boundaries of youth by keeping the focus on material support, not personal involvement.
Program Oversight & Review
The Guardian Angel Program is overseen by the Volunteer & Community Engagement Manager in collaboration with the Youth Services Director. Policies are reviewed annually and adjusted based on youth feedback, community needs, and program evaluation.
Recognition Process
• A yearly social event shall be held inviting the guardian angels.
• 1 year anniversary pins shall be given. To remain in the program the Guardian Angel must provide assistance in person or by monthly donation that can be accessed for
emergency use.
• VIP Guardian Angel newsletter about MPJ’s work and those it is serving.
Closing Statement
Guardian Angels make more than deliveries—they deliver hope, care, and affirmation. Through this program, we are building a stronger, more connected community, rooted in love and dedicated to the well-being of every LGBTQ+ youth we serve.
Feel free to reach us
Address: 340 S. Farrell Drive, Suite A106, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Contact #: 760-464-0223
Email: [email protected]