Building stronger bridges through collaboration and care.

Mendocino County Safe Space Project is led by a dedicated team of LGBTQIA2S+ identifying folks and allies. We welcome board members from all walks of life, valuing cultural care and humility as a primary contribution.

Our founders recognized that simply displaying a rainbow flag doesn’t guarantee safety, so they created a series of ally workshops focused on cultural humility and launched MCSSP as way to build stronger connections among our diverse region.

Become a Volunteer

  • Reyna Cinnamon-Coupé, Co-Founder, Executive Director

    Reyna Cinnamon (she/her/hers) is a trans woman and long-time resident of Mendocino County. 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 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.

  • Cynthia Coupé, Co-Founder

    Cynthia (she/they/them) is a passionate community advocate and as a nonbinary, neurodivergent and queer individual, they embrace the power of authenticity and resilience.

    As a dedicated parent, Speech Language Pathologist, Empowerment Coach, and TEDx speaker, Cynthia brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to their work. They are proud to unite their diverse talents in support of MCSSP, by fostering safe and nurturing environments for individuals from all walks of life.

  • Matt Franks, Board Member

    Matt Franks (he/they) currently works in land conservation at Mendocino Land Trust, helping to protect beautiful spaces in Mendocino County for public access, wildlife habitat, and local food security. He is also a social justice-focused educator who taught gender and sexuality studies at the college level for over 10 years.

    Matt’s other interests include birding, backpacking, hot springs, and playing with the vibrant local band Queer Country.

  • Katie Turner-Carr, Board Member

    Katie Turner-Carr (she/her) is a proud parent and small business owner in Fort Bragg, California. She currently serves on the Planning Commission Board, and is a Rotarian.

    She believes strongly in Mendocino County Safe Space Project’s mission and wants to help cultivate the accepting and nurturing community that everyone deserves. That’s why she celebrates pride year-round at her sock shop, Pippi’s. When she’s not slinging socks, she’s usually curled up with a book or walking on the coastal trail. 

  • Kaz Costa , Board Member

    Kaz (they/them) is a trans non-binary artist and creative strategist. They work with community orgs across the state to bring public events, youth programs, and systems change to life. Their most recent projects included facilitating a public art mural, coordinating after-school activities for students on the coast, and facilitating county-wide conservation partnerships.

    An avid photographer and indie media creator, Kaz spends their free time documenting life on the amazing Mendocino Coast.