Piper

Piper is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community. As a child, she realized she was a part of the community since she was born, but her identity really started to become clear as a teenager. At 14, Piper recognized she is gay, then at 18, Piper realized she is trans. These moments are when she understood her identity felt very normal for her, like breathing. At 27 years old, Piper stands proud in her identity. Pride month is important for her because it celebrates the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, and this is something she doesn’t take for granted.

For over a year, Piper has attended Southside Unlimited for her day program and is actively working on gaining work experience. At Southside Unlimited, Piper does janitorial work and maintains the cleanliness of the office. In addition to her paid job with them, Piper volunteers at the California Museum where she offers tours to educate people on the Spanish Missions and how they tie into California history. Giving back to the community is very important for Piper, so she also volunteers at St. Vincents in their thrift store. Piper enjoys helping people find the clothing they need.

Besides her work and volunteering service, Piper hopes to own a metaphysical shop one day where she can provide a safe meeting space for witches, and sell products related to witchcraft, along with baked goods. Witchcraft is an important part of Piper’s life, and her involvement in it began when she watched her mother practice witchcraft. As she continues to gain work experience, Piper hopes to take her knowledge and use it to open her store.

Piper advises anyone who is struggling with their identity to follow their dreams and heart, and embrace who you are, even if your family doesn’t accept it. Being true to yourself is freeing and an amazing thing to do, and it helps you fulfill your destiny.