Cynthia Coupé (she/they/them) is a passionate advocate and co-founder of the Mendocino County Safe Space Project (MCSSP). Identifying as a nonbinary, neurodivergent and queer individual, Cynthia embraces the power of authenticity and resilience. As a dedicated parent, Speech Language Pathologist, Empowerment Coach, and TEDx speaker, they bring a unique blend of skills and experiences to their work. Cynthia is proud to unite their diverse talents in support of MCSSP, by fostering safe and nurturing environments for individuals from all walks of life. Through their leadership, Cynthia strives to empower others and promote understanding, compassion, and connection within the community.

Reyna Cinnamon (she/her/hers) is a trans woman, long-time resident of Mendocino County and has made significant strides in fostering inclusivity within her community. As a co-founder of the Mendocino County Safe Space Project, Reyna plays a crucial role in creating environments where LGBTQIA2S+ individuals feel safe and accepted. Her position as the coordinator for LGBTQIA2S+ sensitivity and inclusion training further emphasizes her commitment to educating others and promoting understanding across diverse groups.

In addition to her advocacy work, Reyna is a dedicated sexuality educator for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This unique focus allows her to address the specific needs of a marginalized populations, ensuring that they receive the education and support necessary to navigate their own identities and relationships. Reyna's multifaceted approach to education and advocacy showcases her deep understanding of the complexities surrounding sexuality, gender and inclusion.

Beyond her professional roles, Reyna is also a passionate musician and a lifelong environmental and social activist. Her love for community building shines through in her efforts to create welcoming spaces for the local queer community. By combining her artistic talents with her activism, Reyna continues to inspire others and foster a sense of belonging, making Mendocino County a more inclusive and vibrant place for all its residents.

Matt Franks (he/they) is a social justice-focused educator who has taught gender and sexuality studies at the college level for over 10 years. He is a fervent believer in the power of education to challenge assumptions, spark change, and cultivate meaningful relationships across differences. He has worked toward these goals by teaching courses on queer literature and colonialism, publishing articles on reproductive rights, leading LGBTQ+ community events and organizations, and participating in intersectional justice activism. Matt’s other interests include birding, backpacking, hot springs, and playing with the vibrant local band Queer Country. As someone who has recently returned to his hometown on the Mendocino coast, he is thrilled to help cultivate safer spaces, enhanced knowledge, and stronger communities locally with MCSSP.

Treasurer

Born and raised in the Flint Hills of Kansas, Amy Scharmann (she/her) now happily calls the Mendocino Coast home. She teaches high school English and is passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, safe, and valued. Being as helpful as possible–contributing to what she calls “the stream of goodness”–is her priority. She is committed to uplifting authenticity, truth, and inclusivity within the local community, where her own two children will grow up.

Amy has an MFA in Fiction and firmly believes in the power of storytelling and conversation to build understanding and connection. She hopes to strengthen the partnership between the MCSSP and local schools to create supportive environments for all students. She also plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling psychology in the hopes of serving the wellbeing of the community even further. Grateful to be part of the MCSSP, she is eager to collaborate on creating lasting, meaningful change.

Jackie Jones has been an integral part of her small community since 1986, bringing a deep commitment to equality and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community. As the website designer and grant writer for an LGBTQ+ non-profit, Jackie combines creativity and strategy to support the organization's mission of fostering equal treatment and opportunities for all.

In addition to her advocacy work, Jackie is dedicated to caregiving, a personal vocation that reflects her compassion and dedication to improving the lives of others. Her work is fueled by a belief in the power of community and the importance of standing up for what is right.