TRJP
The Rainbow Jacket Project is no longer active. Learn how Greater Evansville Youth Powered by IYG is carrying on our mission.
The Rainbow Jacket Project (TRJP) began as an idea by two high school students in Evansville, IN. Classmates Nic and Emme noticed many transgender individuals struggling to purchase clothing that reflects who they are. The pair envisioned a clothing bank that doubled as a LGBTQ+ safe space. To bring this idea to life, Nic and Emme assembled a team of peers and sought donations from the community. After months of work, TRJP opened its doors in February of 2019, in a space graciously provided by St. Paul's Episcopal Church. The organization later grew into an official 501(c)(3) non-profit.
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TRJP was a grassroots effort, run entirely by volunteers. It served as a safe space for trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals to explore style and self-expression. TRJP offered clothing, accessories, and cosmetics—all free of charge. This gave clients a way to try out new looks and build a wardrobe reflecting who they are. TRJP also connected clients with other resources, such as legal assistance and support groups. The organization served individuals of all ages and socioeconomic statuses, recognizing that trans individuals struggle to find clothes for many different reasons. ​
Nic Johnson
Co-founder
he/him
Emme Lang
Co-founder
any pronouns
St. Paul's Annex
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Site of TRJP clothing closet
St. Paul's Annex
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Site of TRJP clothing closet
TRJP operated for nearly seven years, serving hundreds of clients in the tri-state area. In December 2025, TRJP made the heartfelt decision to close its doors, passing along its mission and assets to Greater Evansville Youth (GEY) Powered by IYG.
In Memory of Lydia Johnson
(1963-2024)
Lydia was the driving force behind The Rainbow Jacket Project for four years. After taking on Nic and Emme's roles in 2020, she poured countless hours into the organization. Lydia spearheaded TRJP's journey to becoming a formal nonprofit, serving as its president until the final weeks of her life.
Lydia was a brilliant, witty, hardworking, and giving person. She was a painter, an award-winning journalist, a leader, a mother of two, an avid reader, and a prolific knitter of scarves. She was a proud Christian and member of the Episcopal Church. She was fascinated by U.S. history and genealogy. She traveled to four out of seven continents. She was a lifelong fan of Queen, Prince, and Led Zeppelin — and especially Robert Plant. She was fond of everything old: graveyards, churches, and haunted houses and hotels. She loved card and board games. She dominated the playing field in Words with Friends, consistently wiping the floor with her opponents.
After many years fighting lung cancer and other chronic health issues, Lydia is finally at peace. Her legacy will endure in TRJP and all the lives she has touched through it.