We are excited to announce the official partnership between Voda, the award-winning LGBTQIA+ mental well-being app, and AspenOUT, the renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Q+ communities. This collaboration, which officially launches during Aspen Gay Ski Week (AGSW) 2025, aims to improve mental health access for LGBTQIA+ individuals in rural communities across the United States.

‍

Why This Partnership Matters

Mental health challenges disproportionately affect the LGBTQIA+ community. Recent studies indicate that Q+ individuals are over four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers, with youth in rural areas facing even higher risks. While crisis hotlines and emergency services provide essential immediate support, long-term mental health solutions require culturally sensitive, affirming approaches—a gap that Voda and AspenOUT aim to fill through this partnership.

“Mental health support tailored for LGBTQIA+ communities is not just a want, it’s a necessity, especially in rural areas where access to mental health resources is scarce,” said Jaron Soh, Co-Founder and CEO of Voda. “This partnership with AspenOUT demonstrates our shared commitment to bridging that gap and creating a meaningful impact.”

‍

How the Program Works

As part of the partnership, Voda and AspenOUT will provide 100 free annual memberships to Voda Plus, offering recipients full access to:

• Guided therapy programs tailored to LGBTQIA+ challenges such as coming out, coping with gender dysphoria, and managing stigma.
• Mindfulness exercises, cognitive journaling tools, and emotional regulation techniques designed by accredited LGBTQIA+ therapists.
• Personalized support to help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

The initial pilot program will serve as a foundation for future expansion, with plans to increase the number of memberships and scale the initiative through additional community support and donations.

‍

How to Apply

Applications for the 100 free annual memberships are now open and can be submitted via AspenOUT’s website. The program is designed to ensure equitable access, focusing on:

1. Location-Based Eligibility: Applicants should reside in rural or underserved areas in the USA.
2. Identity: Applicants must self-identify as LGBTQIA+.
3. Financial Need: Applicants should demonstrate financial barriers to accessing mental health resources.
4. Commitment to Use: Recipients agree to actively use the Voda app throughout the year.

"AspenOUT is thrilled to join forces with Voda to provide accessible and affirming mental health resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals in rural communities,” said Kevin McManamon, Executive Director of AspenOUT. “Together, we hope to pave the way for healthier, more resilient lives by drawing attention to this serious issue and working to scale up this program while also inspiring others to follow suit.”

‍

Partnership Launch at Aspen Gay Ski Week 2025

The official launch of the Voda x AspenOUT partnership will take place during Aspen Gay Ski Week 2025, held from January 12–19, 2025 in Aspen, Colorado. AGSW is the oldest annual week-long gay ski fundraiser event in the United States, celebrating diversity and inclusion while raising funds for LGBTQIA+ causes.

Throughout the week, attendees can learn more about the partnership and the available mental health resources through various event announcements and programming. Additionally, a joint press release will be distributed to key media outlets, with further promotion via AspenOUT’s and Voda’s communication channels, including newsletters and social media.

‍

Join Us in Making a Difference

Beyond the initial 100 memberships, the goal of this partnership is to expand access to mental health support for LGBTQIA+ individuals in rural communities. You can contribute to this effort by donating to support additional scholarships. Together, we can create a lasting impact and help more individuals access the affirming mental health resources they deserve.

Interested in supporting this initiative? Visit AspenOUT’s website to learn more about the program, apply for the scholarship, or make a donation.

‍

About AspenOUT

Founded in 1977, AspenOUT is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting tolerance, understanding, and diversity through education, community action, and partnerships. Known for organizing the celebrated annual Aspen Gay Ski Week, AspenOUT uses its platform to advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and foster inclusive communities worldwide.

For more information, visit aspenout.com and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

‍

About Voda

Voda is an acclaimed mental well-being app designed in collaboration with accredited psychotherapists specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues. The app offers cognitive journaling exercises, mindfulness practices, and evidence-based therapeutic tools tailored for LGBTQIA+ users. Recognized for its innovation, Voda has been featured as App of the Day on the iOS App Store and has received accolades, including the 2024 Rising Star Award at the UK National Startup Awards. Voda was also recognized by Attitude 101 Trailblazers 2024 and nominated for Best Innovation in HealthTech at the Tech Impact Awards.

To learn more or download the app, visit voda.co and follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

We are proud to be part of this incredible initiative and look forward to making a difference in the lives of many. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of the Voda community!

#AspenOUT #Voda #MentalHealth #LGBTQIA #AspenGaySkiWeek #Wellbeing

‍