AspenOUT, the nonprofit organization behind the celebrated Aspen Gay Ski Week (AGSW), has partnered with Voda, an award-winning mental well-being app, to address mental health challenges within Q+ communities in rural areas. The collaboration was officially launched during AGSW 2025, taking place from January 12–19 in Aspen, Colorado. This partnership aims to provide much-needed mental health resources for Q+ individuals, particularly those facing barriers to care in underserved regions.
The initiative comes at a crucial time when mental health concerns in the Q+ community are on the rise, with studies showing that Q+ individuals are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual counterparts. The statistics are even more alarming among Q+ youth in rural communities, where access to specialized mental health care is often limited.
“We are thrilled to partner with AspenOUT to bring culturally sensitive, long-term mental health support to LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly in rural communities,” said Jaron Soh, Co-Founder and CEO of Voda. “This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to bridging the mental health gap for underserved populations.”
To kick off the partnership, Voda and AspenOUT will provide 100 free annual memberships to Voda Plus, the premium version of the app offering access to comprehensive wellness resources designed by LGBTQIA+ therapists. This pilot program aims to address common challenges such as coming out, gender dysphoria, stigma, and loneliness—issues especially prevalent in rural areas. The resources will include guided therapy programs and educational materials tailored specifically for Q+ individuals.
Kevin McManamon, Executive Director of AspenOUT, emphasized the importance of this partnership in creating accessible and affirming mental health resources for rural Q+ communities. “We are proud to join forces with Voda to help LGBTQIA+ individuals thrive and live healthier, more resilient lives. This is just the beginning, and we are committed to expanding this initiative with the support of our community.”
The 100 free Voda Plus memberships will be distributed to individuals in rural areas who meet certain eligibility criteria, including self-identifying as Q+, financial need, and residency in a rural location. Applications will be processed through AspenOUT’s website, and the organization assures that flexibility will be given to applicants who may not meet every requirement.
In addition to providing immediate support through the memberships, the partnership encourages further donations to help expand the program to reach more individuals in need. For more information about the initiative, how to apply for the free memberships, or how to donate, visit AspenOUT’s website.
About AspenOUT
Founded in 1977, AspenOUT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQIA+ rights through education, community action, and advocacy. Known for its world-renowned Aspen Gay Ski Week, AspenOUT strives to create a more tolerant and understanding society.
About Voda
Voda is an innovative mental well-being app designed specifically for LGBTQIA+ users. Collaborating with licensed psychotherapists, the app offers mindfulness practices, cognitive journaling, and evidence-based therapeutic tools to support mental health. Voda has gained recognition for its impact on the LGBTQIA+ community, winning multiple awards, including the 2024 Rising Star Award at the UK National Startup Awards.
