WCAAP Equitable Care Webinar Series: Advocating for the Safety and Inclusion of LGBTQIA+ Youth

Join WCAAP’s Equitable Care Committee as we welcome Community Coordinator, Nathan LaChine, for a webinar exploring the historical context, terminology (SOGIE), legal protections, and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ youth, with a specific focus on foster care systems in Washington State. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of disproportionality, placement instability, mental health risks, and the impact of family acceptance and affirming practices.

Grounded in trauma-informed care, racial equity, and harm reduction principles, this training equips professionals with practical tools to create safe, affirming, and inclusive environments. Attendees will leave with concrete strategies to strengthen advocacy efforts, improve outcomes, and reduce harm for LGBTQIA+ youth.

About the presenter:

Nathan LaChine is a third-generation foster parent with over 20+ years of experience providing therapeutic foster care to some of Washington state’s most vulnerable youth. His frontline experience provides unique insights into the challenges young people face, particularly in navigating the digital world, making him a sought-after internet safety expert.

For over 25 years, Nathan has been a key volunteer and board member for the nonprofit MaleSurvivor, supporting male survivors of sexual abuse. He also founded Evergreen Caregiver Support, an organization dedicated to empowering caregivers through education and community. Through his organization Nathan has developed trainings on Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC), Child Sexual Abuse Material Industry (CSAM), LGBTQIA+ ; SOGIE, Harm Reduction, among other trainings.

A passionate advocate for youth and families, Nathan has shared his expertise on various platforms. He co-hosted the live radio show Real Family Matters, providing resources to community members. He frequently speaks to legislators and policymakers at the local, state, and national levels on issues affecting foster care, and has been featured on numerous podcasts and in interviews. His work with youth has shown him how important internet safety is for this population, and he provides training and support to caregivers on this topic.

Nathan serves as a Foster Parent Mentor and Support Group Facilitator with the University of Washington, providing guidance and support to caregivers across the state. He is also a member of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families’ Foster Parent 1624 Consultation Team.

Nathan’s work is driven by the principles of Educate, Empower, and Harm Reduction, inspiring meaningful change through his trainings, lectures, and advocacy. He is also a published author, professional speaker, international trainer, community advocate, and avid collector of modern and historic queer art