Meet Xander
Xander's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Xander (she/they) is a Gender Non-Conforming person of color navigating financial instability while striving for a secure and fulfilling future. Since being laid off from her full-time job in 2022, Xander has faced a relentless cycle of starting to recover financially, only to encounter setbacks and layoffs that have wiped out any savings. Despite these challenges, Xander remains determined to improve her situation and pursue a career in tech or government—fields that require a U.S. passport.
For Xander, updating her legal name is not only about affirming her gender identity but also about reclaiming her autonomy and creating a fresh start. Her current ID, which carries her deadname, serves as a painful reminder of her past and creates barriers in professional and personal settings. With a legal name change, Xander can distance herself from harmful familial ties and feel safer,.
Access to this grant would provide Xander with the opportunity to update her legal documents, boosting her confidence and opening doors to stable job opportunities. This vital step would empower her to move forward, establish security, and pursue the life she envisions with renewed peace of mind and purpose.
Xander's timeline
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Award Granted
November 15, 2024
Xander was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
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December 16, 2024
A payment has been made to Xander's service provider!
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December 17, 2024
A payment has been made to Xander's service provider!
About Name Change/ID Update
On average, it costs $350+ for Xander's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Updating legal documents such as a name change or updating gender markers on IDs allows trans individuals to align their official records with their gender identity. This often includes changes to a driver’s license, passport, Social Security records, and birth certificates.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Trans folks with IDs that do not reflect their gender identity often face barriers, including job discrimination, housing issues, and challenges when accessing healthcare or traveling. This can lead to a constant need to explain themselves and increases their risk of harassment or discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
The process and cost vary by state or country, with fees for court orders, certified copies, and updates to multiple documents. Many trans people also face legal, bureaucratic, or discriminatory hurdles, especially in states with restrictive policies. Financial costs can be prohibitive for those with limited resources.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Having accurate IDs improves safety, reduces stress, and provides greater freedom and confidence in daily life. It allows trans individuals to navigate healthcare, public spaces, job applications, and travel without fear of being outed or misgendered.
Your support funds healthcare that's
life-changing. Life-saving. Life-giving.