home ~ site map  national/international organizations Are you a YOUTH? Click here too for more social networking!
National/International & Internet-Only Resources: Community Based GLBTQ Youth Support Groups and Safe Schools Coalitions This page was last updated on 03/17/13. If you know of a resource to suggest or errors please click here to let us know.

Alabama (AL)

Alabama Safe Schools Coalition (ASSC) - The ASSC is comprised of organizations and individuals committed to ensuring for all Alabama public and private school students a safe learning environment free of discrimination, harassment, and bullying. Email: info@alabamasafeschools.org; Website: http://www.alabamasafeschools.org

BAGSLY - The Birmingham Alliance of Gay, Straight, & Lesbian Youth: a support and advocacy group for high-school and college-aged gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, questioning, and straight-allied youth. Come and make friends with other like-minded youth and help to build a supportive community!  Meetings every FIRST and THIRD THURSDAY of the month, 6:30 – 8:00pm at the Birmingham Unitarian Universalist Church. Address: 4300 Hampton Heights Drive, Birmingham. Contact BAGSLY09@gmail.com with questions. Website: http://www.aglbical.org/BAGSLY.pdf (pdf file)

GLBT Advocacy & Youth Services, Inc. (GLBTAYS) - Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3443; Huntsville, Alabama 35810; Website: http://www.glbtays.org/

GLBTQ Youth Peer Support Group  
Open to 18 and under gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth and their supportive friends - approved program volunteers, and special guests invited by GLBTAYS
Each Monday - 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
Location: 3015 Sparkman Drive Northwest; Huntsville, AL 35810-3713 (We use the building of Spirit of the Cross church.) 
For: gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning youth and their supportive friends.
Purpose: To share experiences, build healthy relationships, and learn about the GLBT community. 
For more information contact James Robinson 256-425-7804

Alaska (AK)   top

Identity Inc. - 336 East 5th Avenue Anchorage, Alaska 99501; Phone: 907-929-GLBT or 907-929-4528; Website: http://www.identityinc.org/

Identity, Inc. envisions a world where all people are free to express and be proud of their sexual and gender identities. Identity's programs include: a statewide Helpline; Youth Program Support; NORTHVIEW - a quarterly newsletter; PrideFest; Pride Conference; the Gay and Lesbian Community Center; an Identity Advocacy Program; and support for local youth programs.

IMRU2 - Location:  meets downtown at 845 K Street, which is the corner of Ninth and K, two blocks towards the Park Strip from the People Mover Transit Center; Phone: (907) 566-4678

IMRU2 is a free, confidential, voluntary, drop-in youth group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth ages 13-18.  IMRU2 is sponsored by PFLAG Anchorage. The group meets every Wednesday from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

SEAYA - Juneau;  Phone: (907) 463-4396

Arizona (AZ)   top

1n10 is dedicated to inspire and enable lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth to realize their full potential and foster a sense of community. They work to create a safe space for glbtq youth ages 14-22,  to develop positive self-acceptance through life enhancing programs and character developing experiences. Mailing: 1n10, Inc. P.O. Box 33367 Phoenix, AZ 85067-3367; Phone: 602-264-KIDS (5437); email: general inquiries: info@1n10.org; Youth/Volunteer Inquiries & Program Coordinator: coordinator@1n10.org; Website: http://www.1n10.org/

1n10's VOIT & Horizons programs offer programs which meet every Thursday night from 7-8:30pm for two target age groups. VOIT is geared for youth aged 14-17, while Horizons serves young adults aged 18-22.  

Eon - a program in Tucson of the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation, Pima County Health Department and Wingspan. Email: youthprogram@wingspan.org; Phone: (520) 620-6245. Website: http://www.eonyouth.org; 

The Eon "Lounge" drop-in center, located in downtown Tucson, is a safe hangout space for youth 23 and under. The center includes a mini-library, computer stations, video games, and art, and it presents programs of interest to LGBTQQ youth. Please call 620-6245 for directions. Before joining in program activities, youth must complete a 45-minute Eon orientation. New youth orientations are held on Wednesdays at 5:15pm and on Saturdays at 2pm. Our drop-in hours are: Sunday /Monday - closed; Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday - 3-8pm; Friday - 3-10pm; Saturday - 2-10pm.

Paint your Gender Outside the Lines -  sponsored by The Southern Arizona Gender Alliance (SAGA). 
Website: http://sagatucson.org/saga/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=20&Itemid=45   

"Paint your Gender Outside the Lines" is a support group for transgender youth age 23 and under. This group is not currently meeting; however, trans and questioning youth 13-23 are welcome at Eon and will find peer support as well as friendly, knowledgeable staff. Check out Eon "The Lounge" Youth Center, in downtown Tucson (above).

Phoenix G&L Youth Group - Phone: (602) 280-9927 Wingspan, Southern Arizona's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center - 300 East Sixth Street, Tucson, AZ 85705; Phone:  520-624-1779; 24-hour Anti-Violence Crisis Line: 520-624-0348 or toll free: 1-800-553-9387; Email:  wingspan@wingspan.org; Website: http://www.wingspan.org

One of the sponsor organizations of Eon (above) with a library of queer resources, a cyber-center and more. 

Arkansas (AR)   top

No listings yet. Got one to suggest? Click here to email us one!

California (CA)   top

Ally Action has worked in partnership with San Francisco Bay Area schools for over 23 years to create LGBTQ safe and inclusive schools. In addition to resources and training services for youth and adults, we offer a youth leadership development program for youth in the East Bay. Address: 1924 Grant Street, Suite 4; Concord, CA 94520; Phone: 925-685-5480; Email: info@allyaction.org; For more information, please visit: http://www.allyaction.org and see information about Ally Action's excellent Count Me In: A Toolkit for Building LGBTQ-Inclusive Schools here: http://www.safeschoolscoalition.org/RG-SafeZones.html

The California Safe Schools Coalition is a statewide partnership of organizations and individuals dedicated to eliminating discrimination and harassment on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity in California schools. Website: http://www.casafeschools.org 

Billy DeFrank Lesbian & Gay Community Center - 938 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126; Information....408-293-2429; Email:  youthprg@defrank.org; Website:  http://www.defrank.org 

Billy DeFrank Youth Services support Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Youth in Santa Clara County. We provide a safe space for youth to develop their sexual identities and empower them through interactive activities to realize their potential as valuable members of the community.

The Center Long Beach - 2017 E. 4^th Street, Long Beach, CA 90814 (near the corner of 4^th Street & Cherry); General Phone: 562-434-4455; Youth Services: 562-434-4455, ext. 237; Website: http://www.centerlb.org

• Mentoring Youth Through Empowerment is a day drop-in program that meets Monday - Thursday from 2:00 - 5:00 PM.  The group is open to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and question youth and their straight allies between the ages of 13-20.

• Inside Out is a teen spirituality discussion group that meets Wednesday nights from 7:00 - 8:00 PM.  The group is open to all youth who want to explore the topic of spiritual growth.

• Twenty-Something Chat meets Wednesday nights from 8:00 - 9:00 PM.  The group is open to young adults between the ages of 20 - 29.

• Coming Out Support Group meets Friday nights from 7:00 - 9:00 PM.  All ages are welcome. 

The Center-Orange County;  Phone: (714) 534-0862; Email: info@thecenteroc.org, Website:  http://www.thecenteroc.org

The mission of The Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center of Orange County is to provide services to ensure the physical, psychological, and social well being of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and HIV/AIDS affected community. The Youth Drop In Center is open from 1:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday and closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Drop-in hours are from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. during those days, and special group activities are from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Special group activities include: Monday-Guys Night and Gay/Bi Guy Group; Tuesday-Girls Night; Wednesday- Art Night; Thursday-Teen Night; and Sunday-LGBT drop-in day.  

Community Matters - a non-profit that collaborates with schools and communities to engage, equip and empower young people to become change agents and peacemakers. Together with trainer De Palazzo*;  Mailing Address: Community Matters, P.O. Box 14816, Santa Rosa, CA 95402;  Headquarters: 652 Petaluma Avenue, Ste J1; Sebastopol, CA 95472; Phone: 707-823-6159; Fax: 707-823-3373; Email: team@community-matters.org. *De Palazzo is a Community Matters trainer, Board Chair for Equality Florida, President of Perspectives Unlimited, Inc. and has served on the National Board of Directors for GLSEN.

Community Matters has created "The Legal, Moral and Ethical Imperative for Protecting LGBT Youth in Schools" a one day training for district level leadership and middle and high school faculty and staff including: site administrators, school board members, teachers, guidance counselors, school social workers, coaches, and others. http://www.community-matters.org/programs/staffdev-lgbtq-diversity-training;

The Diversity Center - The Santa Cruz County Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered Community Center - 177 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA; P.O. Box 8280, Santa Cruz, CA 95061; Phone:  (831) 425-5422; Email:  info@diversitycenter.og; Website:  http://www.diversitycenter.org

Youth Night is Saturday night.  For all GLBTQ Youth and their friends/allies age 21 and under. For next Saturday meeting date, contact Kristin at (831) 425-5422 or email
kristin.tosello@diversitycenter.org

Fresno Gay/Les/Bi Youth - Phone: (209) 266-LINK (5465)

LGBTQ youth drop in center in the Palm Springs area. Operate 5 days a week, providing programs and services to youth ages 14 to 24.

The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Greater Long Beach - The Young Adult Support Group -2017 E. 4th St., Long Beach, CA 90803; General Phone:  (562) 434-4455; Youth Services:  (562) 570-4359; Website:  http://www.centerlb.org

Gay and Lesbian Resource Center Youth Project - 126 E. Haley Street, Suite A10; Santa Barbara, CA. 93101; Phone: (805) 963-3636; Email: Pride@silcom.com

Gays and Lesbians Initiating Dialogue for Equality (GLIDE): Los Angeles speakers bureau conducting LGBT diversity trainings in schools and agencies throughout the area. The mission of GLIDE is to eliminate homophobia by providing the general public with factual information and diverse personal experiences about homosexuality. We accomplish this through live, interactive presentations tailored to specific audiences. We target educational, business, civic, social, political and religious groups in every ethnic and cultural population. Address: Post Office Box 931714, Los Angeles, CA 90093; Phone: (310) 358-5165 ; Email: info@socal-glide.org; Website: http://www.socal-glide.org/

Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Network - originally a California organization - now a national movement with some work still focused on California - Address: 1550 Bryant St., Suite 800, San Francisco, CA 94103; Phone: 415--552-4229; Email:  info@gsanetwork.org; Website: http://www.gsanetwork.org

GSA Network empowers youth activists to fight homophobia and transphobia in schools through Gay-Straight Alliance clubs, helping LGBTQ students and straight allies organize GSA clubs focused on activism to create safer schools. GSA Network's resources empower students to advocate for safe schools policies, mobilize their peers to stand up for safety and equality, and train teachers to stop bullying. By providing in-depth leadership and activist training for youth, GSA Network is building a generation of leaders for LGBTQ rights and social justice. As a youth-driven organization, GSA Network brings the voices and perspectives of youth to the forefront of the LGBTQ movement.

Hillcrest Youth Center (HYC)  serves San Diego County, including La Jolla, Rancho Bernardo, Sherman Heights, Pacific Beach, Mission Hills, Hillcrest, South Bay, Spring Valley, El Cajon, and Lakeside. Phone: (619) 497-2920, ext. 113; Email: hyc@thecentersd.org; Website: http://www.youthcentersd.com/ 

This drop-in facility for LGBTQ youth between the ages of 14 and 24 offers cyber/computer training, health education, basic financial education, diversity and cultural awareness workshops and seminars, youth leadership training, case management, HIV prevention education, life skills training workshops, discussion groups, counseling services, and social activities. Contact HYC for times and more information. 

Jeff Griffith Youth Center, 7051 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90038; Phone:  323-461-8163; Email:  youthservices@laglc.org; Website:  http://www.laglc.org/home.htm

The L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center's Youth Services Department has provided shelter and meals, material support, and supportive services as components of a comprehensive life stabilization efforts for more than 20 years.  The L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center's Jeff Griffith Youth Center was created to help homeless youth make the transition into independent living and to create a comfortable space for in-school, at-home and at-risk youth to socialize with other lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in an alcohol-free, drug-free, safe, educational and affirming environment.  

L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center - McDonald/Wright Building, 1625 N. Schrader Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028; Phone:  323-993-7450  

L.A. Gay Community Center Youth Outreach - Phone: (213) 993-7451
Project 10 - Phone: (213) 651-5200

Lambda Youth Network - 22646 Second St. Hayward, CA 94541; Phone: (510) 247-8217; Email: info@gayprom.org; Website: http://www.gayprom.org/lypinfo.html

Weekly support groups meet at Project Eden, in Hayward on Tuesdays 6:30-8:00pm for LGBTQ or friendly youth 20 or younger. Confidential discussions, mutual support, advocacy; social activities; Gay Prom; Bay Area community events, Lambda Speaker's Bureau and more.

LifeWorks - LGBTQ youth, between 12-24 years old, are invited to join a weekly conversation group held every Wednesday nights from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and drop in times Tuesday through Friday afternoons with different activities each day at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza; 1125 N. McCadden Place; Los Angeles, CA 90038. (one block east of Highland, north of Santa Monica); Phone: 323-860-7373; fax: 323-308-4152; Email: info@lifeworksmentoring.org; Website: http://www.lifeworksmentoring.org

Empowering the future for our youth. Want to meet new friends? You want great advice from others? You need a sounding board? It's youth supporting youth at this fun, casual, free, and confidential forum where you can meet new friends, share thoughts and exchange experiences with others. 

LYRIC - 123-127 Collingwood St. (1 block west of Castro, between 18^th & 19^th St), San Francisco, CA; Phone: 415.703.6150; Email: lyric@lyric.org; Website:  http://www.lyric.org

LYRIC is a community center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth 23 & under. Mission: LYRIC brings LGBTQQ youth together to build a peer-based community that empowers them to end isolation; create a progressive queer youth voice; increase well-being and self-esteem; and change the communities in which they live. LYRIC accomplishes this by offering peer-based education, advocacy, recreation, information, and leadership opportunities.

L.O.U.D. YOUTH (Loving Ourselves & Uniting Diversity)  at The Pacific Center - 2712 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA  94705; Phone:  510-548-8283; Email: youth@pacificcenter.org; Website:  http://www.pacificcenter.org and http://www.pacificcenter.org/queeryouth.html 

L.O.U.D. VOICES: youth leadership meetings Wednesdays 5:30-7pm; drop in times: Mon-Sat 4-9pm, The Attic - a 25 and under space that is alcohol and drug free; movie nights Saturdays at 7:00pm. 

OLGA (Our Little Gay Alliance) - Fairfield; Phone: (707) 427-2356

Outlet - Mountain View - supports and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning youth ages 13-18 living on the Peninsula and South Bay . Through our range of support services, leadership training, community education and advocacy, Outlet successfully increases youth confidence, builds personal assets, and creates healthier communities: http://www.projectoutlet.org/

Positive Images - Sonoma County; Phone:  1-866-PI-LGBTQ or (707)-579-4947; Email:  Posimage@sonic.net; Website:  http://www.posimages.org

A support group for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered, Intersexed, Queer and Questioning youth and young adults in Sonoma County. Mentor Program available for Positive Images youth.

Project 10 - provides education and support for LBGT youth in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Project 10 works with students, faculty and staff to maintain safe, open, and inclusive campuses. Project 10 works to ensure that the voices of LGBT youth are represented in school policies and practices, and provides assistance and support to students, faculty, and staff who have experienced harassment or discrimination. Stephen Jimenez, Project 10 Specialist; Email: Stephen.Jimenez@lausd.net; Phone: 213-241-7614; Fax: 213-241-3312; Judy Chiasson, Coordinator; Los Angeles Unified School District; Human Relations Diversity and Equity, 333 S. Beaudry Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90017; Email: Judy.Chiasson@lausd.net; Phone: 213-241-5626; Website: http://www.project10.org/

Friends of Project 10 - In 1986, the need arose for a vehicle in which to fund programs and projects not paid for by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). In response, Friends of Project 10, Inc., was formed as a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. The major programs that are sponsored through Friends of Project 10, Inc., are: The Models Of Pride Conference; Models Of Excellence Scholarship Program; The LGBT Youth Prom; & Implementation of the California School Safety Bill (AB 537); Virginia Uribe, Executive Director; Gail Rolf, Education Director; Phone: 626-577-4553; Fax: 626-795-0639; 115 West California, #116, Pasadena, CA 91105; Email:  friendofproject10@hotmail.com; Phone: (626) 577-4553. Website: http://www.project10.org/For Students/friendsofP10.html

Project FOCYC, Gay & Lesbian Teen Intervention Program - San Mateo; Phone: (415) 342-5216

Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance (RPYA) - 1705 N. Waterman Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92401; Phone: (909) 475-9392 or (909) 725-0417; Fax: (909)  886-0082; Email: MoreInfo@RPYA.org;  http://www.rpya.org 

Works to promote the physical and mental well-being, and to encourage the development of academic, employment, social, parenting, and leadership skills, of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth and their families. Support; acceptance & new friends; a place where you can be yourself; the opportunity to talk about issues that are important to you. Music, pool, foosball, darts, and other games, snack bar, and plenty of opportunity to be yourself and make new friends. 

Proud Voices at Equinox: Alternative Resource Center - 755 Cedar Street at Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, CA; Phone:  (831) 457-1441; Email: equinoxsc@yahoo.com; Website:  http://www.geocities.com/equinoxsc/

Proud Voices is a discussion/rap group for lesbian, gay, bi, questioning, queer, and transgendered individuals under the age of 25.  This group meets every Tuesday from 6:30 - 8:00pm.It is part of Equinox, a community project for gay, bi, queer, questioning, and trans-gendered men of all ages. 

REAL Youth Center, Asian Pacific Health Care Venture, Inc., 1530 Hillhurst Ave., Ste. 200, Los Angeles, CA  90027; Phone:  (323) 644-3887; Website:  http://www.realyc.com/ 

REAL Youth Center provides various services and activities for youth, including after-school activities, Health Education Services for local middle, high schools, and community centers, and Peer Leader and Volunteer Opportunities for youth. In addition, we also run a Youth Clinic on Wednesday evenings, offering confidential, teen-friendly, low-or-no-cost youth clinic with confidential services for young people ages 12 to 24 years. The Center does LGBTQ sensitive trainings for youth within their peer leader program and for community groups; and they have young women's and young men's support groups.

The Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center - Website:  http://www.saccenter.org/programs/youth-services 

The Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center provides two weekly facilitated discussion groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in a safe, affirming environment, as well as a weekly support group facilitated by Center Counseling Program staff specifically for transgender youth. For more information about youth services at the Center, call 916-442-0185, Ext. 1

San Gabriel Valley Rainbow Youth - Pasadena, CA; Phone:  (818) 545-4661

The Rainbow Youth Alliance is organized by The Rainbow Center Planning Committee which is a joint project of Catalyst Project, The Neighborhood Alliance, Pasadena PFLAG and community volunteers.  Meets Every Saturday. Neighborhood Church in room 23, 301 N. Orange Grove Bl. Pasadena 3 to 5 pm.  

The Safe Schools Project of Santa Cruz County: a county-wide effort to help make K-12 schools in Santa Cruz County a safer place for Queer & Queer-friendly youth. Website: http://diversitycenter.org/programs/affiliates/lgbtiq-youth-task-force/safe-schools-project-of-santa-cruz-county/ The mission of The Safe Schools Project is to:

• Raise awareness of the harsh atmosphere queer youth face on school campuses in Santa Cruz County.

• Advocate for the enforcement of AB537.

• Be a catalyst for action in each school district to make schools safe for all youth.

Sexual Minority Alliance of Alameda County (SMAAC) Youth Center  - 1738 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA; Phone:  (510) 834-9578; Website:  http://www.smaacyouthcenter.org/ 

The mission of the S.M.A.A.C. Youth Center is to provide a safe haven for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth of color.

Spectrum - Marin County; Phone: (415) 457-1115; Website: http://www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/Programs.htm#youth   

• Gay/Straight Alliances are school-based clubs organized by students with technical assistance from Spectrum; they meet weekly on their campuses to promote safety and acceptance for queer and questioning youth on high school campuses. Contact Sam Davis at 415-457-1115 x206, or email sdavis@SpectrumLGBTCenter.org.

• Rainbow's End is a facilitated social and support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth ages 14-19; meets weekly for fun, discussion, and support. Contact Cristin Brew for details at 415-457-1115 x203, or email cbrew@SpectrumLGBTCenter.org.

• Speaker's Bureau Educational Program provides classroom speakers and presentations on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender lives to thousands of Marin youth. Contact Sam Davis at 415-457-1115 x206, or email sdavis@SpectrumLGBTCenter.org.

Stonewall Alliance Center began in 1994 as an effort to provide Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning (G/L/B/T/Q/Q) youth with a safe space to meet other youth like themselves and to self-identify according to their own feelings. Physical address: 358 E. 6th St. Chico, CA; Mailing address: PO Box 8855 Chico, CA 95927; Phone (530) 893-3336; Email center@stonewallchico.org; Website:  http://www.stonewallchico.org

The Stonewall Alliance Center Youth Program teens group is serves up to age 18 and is offered on Wednesdays from 3:30-5:00pm. There is a 20's group is every Wednesday from 6-8pm.

Support Services for LGBTQ Youth - San Francisco Unified School District, School Health Programs Department, 1515 Quintara Street, San Francisco, CA 94116; Website: http://www.healthiersf.org 

Support Services for LGBTQ Youth is a program that is completely integrated within San Francisco Unified School District that collaborates with other programs to make schools safer for all students including gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students. The Goal is to provide school site resources and district support to meet the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. The program includes:

• Curriculum development, training, and implementation;

• Counseling and referral services, including school-site group for students, families, and staff regarding LGBTQ issues;

• Professional developments regarding LGBTQ youth issues;

• Theater presentations;

• Community Based Organizations presentations in elementary, middle, and high school classes;

• Gay Pride Commemorations.

Colorado (CO)  top

Boulder Valley Safe Schools Coalition - Boulder; CO; 303-444-4580 (PFLAG); Website: http://www.bouldersafeschools.org/

Colorado Queer Youth Summit - held each Winter, bringing over 200 youth to participate in youth-led and co-led workshops in one of four tracks: Show Me Some Love, Who We Are, Art & Media, and Youth Organizing. Established in 2008 by a coalition of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, pansexual, queer, two-spirit, same-gender-loving, and ally youth-serving organizations. The coalition seeks to create a space that is “For Youth – By Youth” with intentional focus on providing youth the support to realize their own potential recognizing that strong communities are best build from within. The network of sponsors represent people and organizations who believe in that vision and are dedicated to providing youth with the mentorship and support to the do the work. Lots of resources listed on the website. http://www.coqueeryouthsummit.org/

Inside/Out Youth Services - 121 E. Pikes Peak Ave., #354; Colorado Springs, CO  80903; Directions:  Downtown Colorado Springs, inside the Independence Building,  next to Josh & John's Ice-cream and Kimball's Movie Theatre. Phone: 719-328-1056; Email: InsideOutYS@aol.com; Website:  http://www.insideoutys.org

Inside/Out Youth Services is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Our mission is to support at-risk lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and questioning youth.  

OASOS (Open and Affirming Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity Support) - Boulder County. To learn more about OASOS youth groups, youth leadership programs, and events, contact OASOS program specialists Sherry Biskup (sbiskup@bouldercounty.org and Amy Winchester awinchester@bouldercounty.org at 303.678.6259.  Information on this PFLAG-Boulder web page: http://pflagboulder.org/pflag-resources/oasos/

OASOS provides advocacy and weekly education/support/activity groups for GLBTQ youth age13-20 in Boulder and Longmont.  

Outfront Pueblo - sponsored by The Southern Colorado Equality Alliance (SCEA) - Pueblo, CO; More information call John at
(719) 250-8667or leave message at (719) 564-4004; Website:  http://www.socoequality.org/outfrontyouthgroup.htm

• A safe place for LGBTQ youth ages 15-21 have fun and meet new people.

•  A Support Group: 2nd and 4th Friday at 5:30 pm at the Glendale 4 building (731 E. 4th Street, Pueblo) - This group is designed for your need of support. Various topics are discussed.

• Recreation Activities and Social Events at least every last Saturday of the month at 6pm.

Rainbow Alley - 1050 Broadway, behind The Center. Youth can access Rainbow Alley through the back alley entrance, between Broadway and Lincoln and 10th and 11th.  There is a small fenced in parking lot for youth visiting Rainbow Alley. Denver, CO; Phone: 303-831-0442 or 303-832-2260; 24hr. crisis pager for young GLBTQ youth in crisis: 303-461-1650; Email: rainbowalley@glbtcolorado.org; Website: http://www.glbtcolorado.org/site/c.anKIIPNtEqG/b.487673/k.D904/Youth.htm 

Rainbow Alley is Denver's only drop-in center for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning young people, 12-21 years of age.  Rainbow Alley is open Tuesdays & Thursdays 3-8 pm Wednesday 3-9 pm Fridays 3-10 pm Saturdays 4-10 pm. Rainbow Alley is a drug/alcohol and hate-free space.

St. Vrain Safe Schools Coalition - monthly meetings 3:30-4:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month in Longmont. Meetings are free and open to the public. Call 303-678-6259 for more information. Article: "Students work for safer schools" at: http://counseling.stvrain.k12.co.us/safeschools1.pdf

Lambda Community Center/Rainbow Peaks Youth Group - 149 W. Oak Street, Ste. 8; Fort Collins, CO 80524; Phone:  970-221-3247; Email:  info@lambdacenter.org; Website:  http://www.lambdacenter.org

MISSION: To offer education for the GLBT and straight community, develop out-reach and collaboration with other agencies, work towards membership involvement, and be involved in political advocacy for equal treatment under the law.  Sunday: Rainbow Peaks Youth Group (20 and under.)

Connecticut (CT)  top

Danbury Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Youth Group - Danbury; Phone: (203) 798-0863 OutSpoken - Triangle Community Center - 16 River Street; Norwalk, CT; Website: http://www.ctgay.org/tcc-groups.htm

Organized in the fall of 1993 by openly gay, experienced youth workers, OutSpoken is a support group for young people in the southwestern Connecticut area. Whether its a holiday or there is a blizzard or its the most beautiful day of the year, you will find us meeting at the Triangle Community Center at 16 River Street in Norwalk on Sunday afternoons.

Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective's Rainbow Room - PO Box 2094; Hartford, CT 06145-2094; Phone: 1-860-278-4163; Email: info@hglhc.org; Website: http://www.hglhc.org/PDF Files/Rainbow_Broch_single_pages.pdf (pdf format)

Rainbow Room is a discussion/social activity for LGBTQ youth (up to 21) and meets Sundays from 3- 6pm, with 1 hour discussion followed by 2 hours of social time. At the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective, we treat you like family. Because we are. Since 1983, the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective has provided comprehensive education, support, advocacy and specific medical services which meet the health care needs of gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals in the greater Hartford area.

Transgender Youth Support Group - facilitated by Irwin Krieger, LCSW, at his office in New Haven. For further information, to join the group, or to make a referral, please call 203-776-1966 or email irwin.krieger@sbcglobal.net

The group for ages 17-21 will meet once or twice monthly on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM. Goals for the group include: reducing isolation and increasing peer support for trans youth, therapeutic focus on issues of  identity and coming out, strategizing to advocate for fair and respectful responses from others, providing a forum to discuss decisions about gender transition.

True Colors, Inc./Children From the Shadows - University of Hartford; 200 Bloomfield Ave; West Hartford, CT; Website: http://www.ourtruecolors.org

True Colors, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving and enriching the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth, adults, and families. We provide support, education, and advocacy that promotes the development of LGBT people into full and productive members of society.  Children From the Shadows focuses on the needs of LGBT youth through a comprehensive annual conference, youth leadership training, on-going support for school and community based gay/straight alliances, and diversity and support groups.

Delaware (DE)  top

The J.U.S.T. for Youth Coalition - committed to increasing awareness, reducing risky behaviors, and providing support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth in Delaware. We provide sensitivity and cultural competency training and informational workshops for service providers, parents, and youth. J.U.S.T. for Youth facilitates LGBTQ youth social and peer-to-peer groups, and assists youth and youth-serving agencies in identifying and participating in support programs for sexual minority youth that are offered in Delaware. http://www.justforyouthde.org/ 

District of Columbia (DC)

Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL) - The majority of SMYAL's programs operate out of our Youth Center located at 410 7th Street SE in Washington DC (near the Eastern Market Metro station); Christopher Lane, Director of Programs. Phone: 202.546.5940 ext. 104; Email: christopher.lane@smyal.org ; Website: http://www.smyal.org and youth site: http://www.smyal.org/index.php?m=y

 As a youth service agency serving the metropolitan area of Washington, DC, including Maryland and Northern Virginia, SMYAL'smission is to support and enhance the self-esteem of sexual minority youth - any youth (13-21) who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or who may be questioning their sexuality (LGBTQ) - and to increase public awareness and understanding of their issues. 

Youth Pride Alliance - 410 7th St. SE; Washington, DC 20003; Phone:  202-387-4141; Email:  youthpride@youthpridedc.org; Website:  http://www.youthpridedc.org

SMYAL offers individual & family counseling as well as support groups for youth ages 13-21. Support groups meet Wednesdays from 6 to 7 PM at SMYAL. The SMYAL Youth Center is a great place to meet other LGBTIQ youth in a relaxed, supportive and safe atmosphere. The Center is a youth-only space, aside from the staff and trained volunteers. The Center includes a library, stereo, backyard with basketball hoop, games, computers and videos. Best of all it is free to all SMYAL members! Other programs include Leadership Development, HIV Testing & Counseling; Project O.V.A.H. - SMYAL's HIV/AIDS Prevention effort, Smoke Check, a group of LGBTIQ youth who are being informed and informing others about the harmful effects of tobacco. Youth are engaged in an 8 week discussion group using an anti-tobacco program (curriculum) called END(Ending Nicotine Dependence). Latino/a Services, Latino/a Services hosts an LGBTIQ youth group in the Columbia Heights area, Maryland Services and Virginia Services.

Florida (FL)  top

Also Out Youth -  Mailing Address: 1470 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236; Phone: 941-951-ALSO (2576); Email: contact.us@alsoyouth.org  Website: http://www.alsoyouth.org 

Also Out Youth  promotes the health and safety of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and questioning youth and strives to end all forms of violence and harassment based on real or perceived sexual orientation. Also offers a youth drop-in center, individual support, a youth speakers panel, educational and recreational programming, and support groups in Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties.  The drop-in center and satellite support groups are open to any LGBTIQ youth and their straight allies between the ages of 13-21.  ALSO staff offer HIV testing, counseling, and education, and diversity trainings for both public schools, colleges, and private corporations.

 

Compass, Inc. - 7600 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach , FL 33405; Phone: 561-533-9699; Fax: 561-533-5131;  Email : compass@compassglcc.com; Website: http://www.compassglcc.com/ 

• HOPE - Support and Social Program for Youth/Parents

• Evolve - HIV Prevention and Education, Lending Library

• HART - HIV/AIDS Case Management Services.

• Monday - Friday 10am to 10pm; Saturday 4pm to 8pm; Sunday 3pm to 5:30pm.

Equality Florida - a statewide education and advocacy organization dedicated to eliminating discrimination based on sexual orientation, race, gender and class. Working on schools, they seek to provide an effective remedy to the problem of bullying and harassment in Florida schools and is working to pass a statewide safe schools law that bans harassment and provides mandatory training for every Florida teacher on how to identify and stop harassment when it occurs. Equality Florida supports legislation that contains three crucial elements: Prohibits biased-based harassment and violence, trains administrators and teachers to effectively intervene when incidents arise, and regularly survey the school climate around Florida to discover where needs are most profound. Locations in St. Petersburg, Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville. Phone: 813-870-EQFL(3735), Fax: 727-490-0965  General questions: david@eqfl.org; Website: http://www.eqfl.org/issues/schools.php

Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Teens - Gainesville; Phone: (904) 338-3593 Jacksonville Area Sexual Minority Youth Network (JASMYN) ; P.O. Box 380103, Jacksonville, FL 32205; Phone - Office: (904) 389-3857; Phone Gay Youth Information Line: (904) 389-0089; Fax: (904) 389-3089; Email: jasmyn@jasmyn.org; Website: http://www.jasmyn.org  

Youth Support Group (ages 13-23) 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month 4-5:45 p.m.; Color Purple (ages 13-23) call 904-389-0089 for info or check the Calendar of Events; Gender Group (ages 13-23) call 904-389-0089 for info or check the Calendar of Events. Gender groups: Transgender group, Women's Night, and UnZipped (men's group) 18-23 and Guy Friday (all guys ages 13-23). If you want to discuss issues related to being male, female, a cross-dresser, a drag queen, FTM, MTF, Pre-Op, transgender, bi-gender, or you don't fit neatly into traditional male or female roles or appearances, these groups are for you to talk about your experiences with other supportive youth. All support groups meet at the JASMYN Drop-In Center, unless otherwise noted. The Gay Youth Information Line (GYIL) is staffed Friday from 4pm-8pm and Saturday 5pm-9pm. You may also be able to speak with staff/volunteers at other times if they are available. The number for the GYIL is 904-389-0089. When no one is there to answer your call, JASMYN maintains a voice mail system 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Northeast Florida Safe Schools Coalition - Jacksonville, FL; 904-389-3857; Email: safeschools4all@aol.com

Pridelines Youth Group - 180 NE 19th Street, Miami, FL.; Phone: 305-571-9601; Website: http://www.pridelines.org; Email: pridelines@pridelines.org

Pridelines is "dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, fun and educational environment for all gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in South Florida." Meets every Monday = Support Group, 7-9 p.m.; every Tuesday = Womyn's Night, 6-8 p.m.; every Wednesday = Social Night, 7-9 p.m.; every Thursday = Trans Night, 6-9 p.m. 

Safe Schools South Florida - PO Box 24444 ~ Fort Lauderdale, FL 33307; Phone: 305-576-2126 or 561-582-0971 or  954-771-4799; fax: 561-828-5716; Website: http://www.safeschoolssouthflorida.org; Email: safe@safeschoolssouthflorida.org

Mission and Services: Safe Schools South Florida's mission is to create safer schools where all students can learn and thrive, regardless of real or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.  We empower students; train educators, educate parents and the public and constantly monitor the effectiveness of our efforts through evaluations and surveys. Areas served: Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach County school districts with more than 800,000 students in the combined districts.  During sixteen years of operation, ad hoc educator trainings have also been held in Hillsborough and Martin Counties. All trainings and facilities are handicapped accessible.  Many programs are available in Spanish.

Programs Offered:

• Annual student empowerment and leadership conferences and history/diversity day field trips for gay/straight alliance (GSA) students and their allies.

• Resources and financial support GSAs throughout South Florida schools.

• Leadership/speaker training programs for LGBTQ students and their allies.

• Professional development programs certified by Florida Department of Education for Teacher Recertification to train administrators, teachers, counselors and staff throughout South Florida schools to recognize and intervene in sexual minority bullying and harassment; some programs offer CEUs (continuing education units) for counselors and other mental health professionals.

• Programs currently offered are: School Safety & Sexual Minority Issues 101,  School Safety & Sexual Minority Issues 201 (CEUs), and  Transgender Issues in the Classroom and School: What Teachers and Counselors Need to Know (CEUs)

• Training and support for counselors and facilitators of LGBTQ support groups in high schools throughout South Florida.

• Parent presentations on dealing with LGBTQ children for PTAs, The Miami-Dade Parent Academy and other parent/guardian organizations.

• Speakers bureau training and speaking engagements for adults to speak on issues affecting LGBTQ youth and LGBTQ parents.

• Train-the-trainers program to maintain a full complement of trainers for the four counties; the majority of our trainers are professional educators from the school districts we serve.

• Pre- and post-climate surveys and post program evaluations.

SunServe - SunServe - Central facility is located on the campus of the Sunshine Cathedral, 1480 SW Ninth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315-1275; Phone: 954-764-5055 or 954-764-5150; Website: http://www.sunserve.org/youth/; Email: Info@SunServe.org; All these programs are geared to build social and professional support systems for LGBT and Questioning youth. Free Drop In LGBTQ Youth Groups Under the guidance of licensed mental health specialists and adult supervisors, teens develop their own program for support, discussion and social activities. "Even though our group has professional adult supervision, we're almost 100% for youth, by youth. We facilitate meetings, and make sure they are really fun and cool for everyone." SunServe is a licensed and insured non-profit 501c3 organization. Websites: http://www.SunServe.org and  https://sunserveyouth.wordpress.com/category/sunserve-lgbtqa-group-blog/

• Gender Bender Group Fort Lauderdale - Mondays 7pm-8:30pm at SunServe, 1480 SW 9th Avenue ~ Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315 For youth 13-23 who cannot, will not, choose not and/or do not conform to gender norms

• Youth Group Fort Lauderdale - Tuesdays 7pm-9pm at SunServe, 1480 SW 9th Avenue ~ Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315 For all LGBTQ youth and allies 13-23

• Youth Group Plantation - Thursdays 7pm-9pm at Soref JCC (Jewish Community Center) - 6501 West Sunrise Boulevard ~ Plantation, FL 33313 Building B; Rooms 101-102 For all LGBTQ youth and allies 13-23 (go thru gate, take quick left, go to 3rd building marked with a B youll find us in room 101) Bus Route #36 stops at JCC Soref

• The SunServe Youth Program also has created the SunServe Socio-Drama Youth Ensemble to bring out discussion on sexual orientation in schools and local community organizations. 

Teen Pride - 1601 E Las Olas Blvd, Ft Lauderdale, FL 3330; Phone: 954-463-4321 or 1-800- 585-7527  

Serves people age 12 to 18. Provides resources and clinical treatment, covering such topics as suicide, substance use, safer sex practices, affirming identity, education on homophobia/heterosexism.

Georgia (GA)  top

Georgia Safe Schools Coalition (GSSC) - Mission: to eliminate heterosexism and homophobic, biphobic, and transphobic bullying in Georgia schools by educating school personnel on issues affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQQ) students and families. GSSC is a partnership of educators, community organizations, and safe school activists dedicated to raising awareness about issues affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQQ) youth and families. GSSC works to address the intersections among various systems of oppression, understanding that one cannot eradicate transprejudice and heterosexism without simultaneously working to end all forms of injustice. GSSC will serve as a resource for Georgia educators as they strive to foster a safe and affirming school climate for all students. In doing so, GSSC seeks to improve academic achievement and engender positive social growth among Georgia's youth. Website: http://www.georgiasafeschoolscoalition.org/

GSSC works with educators and community organizations to help Georgia's schools become safe and affirming environments for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/ expression by:

• Providing training, support, and resources to Georgia schools, counselors, administration, faculty and staff

• Raising awareness among families, parents and members of the community

• Providing resources to help support safer, more affirming schools at the local, district, and state level

• Consulting with schools and personnel in developing safer, more positive school climates

• Offering support and resources to Gay-Straight Alliances

YouthPride - 1017 Edgewood Ave., NE; Atlanta, GA 30307-2543; Phone 404-521-9711; Fax 404-521-9714; Website: http://www.youthpride.org/; Email: info@youthpride.org

The YouthPride Teen Forum (ages 13-17) and Young Adult Group (ages 18-24) meet 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays, followed by Pizza and Programming 8-9 p.m. Other groups meet other nights - see http://www.youthpride.org/programs

Hawai`i (HI)  top

Hawaii Safe Schools Coalition (HSSC) - Mission: Provide all students in Hawaii with a safe and secure learning environment. Contact person: Nancy Kern, HIV Prevention Coordinator, Hawaii Department of Health. Phone number: 808-733-9281; Fax: 808-733-9291; Contact Nancy Kern, Hawai`i Department of Health, Email: nancy.kern@doh.hawaii.gov; Mailing address: 3627 Kilauea Avenue, Room 304, Honolulu Hawaii, 96816

Idaho (ID)  top

Idaho Safe Schools Coalition - PO Box 4213, Boise ID, 83711;  Co-chairs: Krista Perry, phone 617-833-9189 and Melissa Borg, phone 208-870-0142; Email: IdahoSSC@gmail.com; Website: http://www.idahossc.com/ Brochure: http://idahossc.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/ISSC-Brochure_June-2010.pdf (pdf file)

A growing partnership of community organizations, youth, parents, and educators dedicated to ensuring that each child feels safe attending school. The Coalition's goal is to help schools better meet the needs of all students, including those who are perceived and/or identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT), as well as children of LGBT families. The Coalition provides free resources and skill-based training for educators (including those who are preparing to teach) and advocacy for all students. They also collaborate with school board members, administrators, and legislators in order to ensure Idaho schools are safe.

Summary Report of Idaho High School Graduates: Perceptions of LGBTQ* Harassment & Discrimination (2009). From Idaho Safe Schools Coalition. Initial report prepared by Mary Pritchard, Ph.D.; Boise State University. Contact Idaho Safe Schools Coalition Co-Chairs Krista Perry & Mel Borg; Email: IdahoSSC@gmail.com; Posted on this website with permission. http://www.safeschoolscoalition.org/BSU-SurveySummaryReport.pdf (pdf file)

Youth Alliance for Diversity (YAD): exists to provide a safe environment that fosters education, socialization, and a sense of unity within the community. -  a project of The Community Center.  Snail mail: YAD, PO Box 768 Boise ID 83701; YAD coordinator Javier. Phone: 208-841-3220; Email: yad@yffn.org; Website: http://www.yadiversity.org/ 

YAD's youth group for young people aged 20 and under meets every Sunday from 4-6pm at The Boise GLBT Community Center located at 37th St & Adams St Garden City, ID 83714

Illinois (IL)  top

Café Pride - a coffeehouse, located in the Parish House of the Lake View Presbyterian Church, for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender youth, and their friends, 17 to 21 years old. Cafe Pride is a youth outreach of Pride Ministries and is open from 8PM to Midnight on Friday nights. 716 W Addison; Chicago, IL 60613; Phone: 773-784-2635

Horizons Youth Group 5954 South Albany Avenue / Chicago, IL. 60629; Phone: (773) 472-6469

Illinois Safe Schools Alliance: works to promote safety, support and healthy development for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, in Illinois schools and communities, through advocacy, education, youth organizing and research. Address: 70 East Lake, Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60601; Phone: (312) 368-9070; Fax: (312) 368-0283; Website: http://www.illinoissafeschools.org/  

DuPage Questioning Youth Center (QYC) - Downers Grove; Phone: (630) 415-2053; infoline:  (630) 415-2053

Horizons Youth Program - Center on Halsted,| 3656 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613; Phone: 773.472.6469; Fax: 773.472.6643, x 226.; TTY: 773.472.1277;  Email: youthintake@centeronhalsted.org; Website: http://www.centeronhalsted.org/cohyouth.html

Horizons Youth Program is for youth ages 13-24, who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, are questioning their sexual orientation, identify as queer, or are straight allies. The program  currently provides a "Gathering Space" at Center on Halsted, 2869 N. Lincoln Ave. General Hours of Operation are 3pm to 8pm Monday-Thursday (case management by appointment begins at 2pm weekdays) and 12pm to 5pm Saturdays from 12pm until 5pm. There are a lot of groups and activities. See the website for details and more contact information.

Mid Illinois Youth Alliance (MIYA) - meet weekly to serve the needs of the LGBTQA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and questioning youth and their allies) in Peoria and surrounding communities. It is the only LGBTQA youth serving organization in the area. The mission of the MIYA is to enhance the opportunities for LGBTQA, ages 13-20, by providing a supportive environment so they can grow, prosper, and realize their full potential in the community and the world. Website: http://midillinoisyouthalliance.webs.com/ 
The primary objectives of the group are to:

Increase the self-esteem of each youth to promote healthy decision-making
Create an awareness of HIV prevention among gay youth and their allies
Educate the community about the needs of LGBTQA youth
Work to educate communities in diversity and equality
Provide a safe place for the youth to "just be themselves"

theplace2b - 1600 2nd Avenue, Rock Island, IL; phone: 309-786-2030 email: info@theplace2b.org; website: http://theplace2b.org 

theplace2b provides a safe haven for our community's youth. The numbers of homeless, displaced, and near homeless youth have been steadily increasing in the Quad-Cities. theplace2b offers a variety of support services to these youth, ranging from housing options to counseling services to academic support. Hanging out, a hot meal, tutoring, job training, and more.

Pride Youth (part of LINKS - North Shore Youth Health Service) - 1779 Maple Ave., Northfield, IL 60093; Phone: (847) 441-6191; Email: links@linksyouth.org Website: http://www.linksyouth.org/pride/about_frame.html

Empowers young people ages 13-18 to take responsibility for their health, well-being, and sexuality.  The two Pride Youth Centers are safe and confidential spaces for lesbian, bi, tranz, gay, or questioning their sexual identities youth. The Evanston group meets Mondays, 6-9pm. Evanston Youth Center, Wheadon Church , 2214 Ridge Rd., (Corner of Ridge and Noyes). The  Palatine group meets Thursdays, 6-9pm at Palatine Youth Center, Countryside Unitarian Church, 1025 N Smith Road. 

Prism/Spectrum Youth Networks - 1145 Westgate in suite 106 (right behind the Old Navy store) on Harlem, just south of Lake Street in Oak Park, IL; Phone:  (708) 386-3463; Website: http://hometown.aol.com/prismoakpk 

Prism/Spectrum endeavors to help youth with their issues about sexual orientation or gender identification. Support is provided through a drop-in center, an information line, community education, and advocacy for inclusive youth services.  Prism is for those ages 13-17 and meets every Thursday 6:30 - 9:00 PM.  Spectrum is for those 18-25 and meets Mondays - 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

Questioning Youth Center (QYC) - , in the Chicagoland area.  Contact information: Info line: 630-415-2053; 1163 E. Ogden Ave., Ste. 705-337 Naperville, IL 60563; Website: http://www.questioningyouth.org   

Rainbow Cafe - P.O. Box 2, Carbondale, IL 62903-002; Phone: 618-521-2328; Email: rainbowcafe2002@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.cuuf.net/rainbowcafe

Rainbow Cafe's SAFE SPACE is a social/support group and activities for high school age gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender and questioning  youth in Southern Illinois. They also welcome youth members' heterosexual friends.

Rainbow Youth Outreach, Inc. - P.O. Box 10304, Peoria, IL 61612-10304; Phone: (309) 673-7954 (Confidential voice mail); Email: rainbowyo@yahoo.com;

Trans Youth Resources and Advocacy Youth Drop-In Center in Chicago: http://www.genderadvocates.org/Tyra/TYRADropIn.html

Youth Outlook - the only agency in the DuPage, Kane, and DeKalb counties of Illinois dedicated solely to serving LGBTQ youth youth ages 14-20. In order to accomplish our mission, we provide wellness education on a variety of topics, leadership development, and social space. We also conduct community education programs in order to change the social atmosphere that imperils LGBTQ youth in the first place. Youth Outlook offers four drop-in centers in three counties, as well as a youth leadership program, a group for transgender youth, off-site recreational activities, and mobile programming. Office: 1828 Old Naperville Road; Naperville, Illinois 60563; Phone/Fax: 815.754.5331; Email: info@youth-outlook.org; Website: http://youth-outlook.org/

Indiana (IN)  top

Horizons - meets at and is sponsored by Up The Stairs Community Center - 514 E Washington Blvd.; Fort Wayne, IN 46802; Phone: 260-422-2450; Email: horizons@utscc.org;  Website: http://www.utscc.org/horizons.htm 

Horizons is a social group for GLBT youth under the age of 26.  Horizons offers a safe space for GLBT youth to socialize with others and learn about themselves. Horizons is primarily a social/discussion group.  However, this format also serves as an educational and support network.  Horizons' web site offers a web page where youths can submit their "coming out" stories or ask a question to "the Oracle." 

Indiana Youth Group (IYG) - 2943 E. 46th St., Indianapolis, IN - call or email for directions. Mailing address: P.O. Box 20716; Indianapolis, IN 46220-0716; Phone:(317) 541-8726 ext. 1; Cell: (317) 850-2478; Fax: (317) 545-8594; Email: info@indianayouthgroup.org; Website: http://www.IndianaYouthGroup.org 

Social and support program for LGBTQ youth ages 12-21. Numerous programs including visual arts, creative writing, Queer Grrlz feminist group, mentoring, a speakers bureau, social programs and support groups. Office open 9-5 M-F; drop-in center open Wed. and Thu. 3-9:30 p.m.; Fri. 3-Midnight; and Sat. 6-Midnight. 

The Open Door Youth Center - sponsored by Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays, Bloomington-Normal Chapter and the McLean County AIDS Task Force.  Connections Community Center, 313 N. Main Street, Bloomington, Illinois, 61701; Phone: (309) 827-2437;  Fax (309) 827-0456; Information Line: (309) 823-0555; Email: opendoor@opendooryouthcenter.org; Website: http://www.opendooryouthcenter.org 

A safe place for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth ages 13 - 19 and is open every Friday night from 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm at the Connections Community Center.

Iowa (IA)  top

Gay and Lesbian Resource Center of Cedar Rapids & Youth Pride Alliance - GLRC of Cedar Rapids; 1056 5th Avenue SE; Cedar Rapids, IA 52403; Phone: 1-319-366-2055; Email: crglrc@crglrc.org; Website: http://www.crglrc.org

This site is intended for the support and entertainment of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgendered and allies in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and surrounding areas. Our purpose is to provide an information and referral center for the mutual support of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgendered persons, their families, friends, allies and the community at large. They have weekly meetings and special events for youth ages 12-19. Activities include movie nights, game nights, out and about nights, invite nights, wrap sessions, and arts nights.

Iowa Safe Schools - GLBT Youth in Iowa Schools Task Force: PO Box 704, Des Moines, IA 50303; Phone: Office 515-243-1221; Email: info@iowasafeschools.org; Website:  http://www.iowasafeschools.org/ 

The mission of the Task Force is to increase understanding about GLBT students and to improve the personal safety and achievement levels of GLBT students.

Youth Alliance - PO Box 1358 Des Moines, IA 50305; Phone: (515) 975-LGBT (5428) 8 am - 8 pm; Email: youthalliance@ywrc.org

Youth Alliance meets every Monday at 6 p.m. The mission of the Youth Alliance is to build a safe, secure community for, and to enhance the self-esteem of, youth who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered or allies. The Youth Alliance also strives to end discrimination through education and advocacy.

Kansas (KS)  top

Louisville Youth Group - Louisville; Phone: (502) 589-3316

Kentucky (KY)  top

Louisville Youth Group - PO Box 406764; Louisville, KY 40204; Phone: 1-502-454-3300; Email: lygroup@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.louisvilleyouthgroup.org

LYG is a community organization that helps and supports young people by providing resources and a safe social atmosphere for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning (GLBTQ), and supporting young people under 21.

Safe Spaces Encourage Youth (LGBTQ) Support Group - a community based LBGTQ youth group sponsored by and located at the We Care Child & Family Services office. Address: 111 Ewing St., PO Box 472, Guthrie, KY 42234; Phone: (270) 483-6220; Toll Free: (866) 307-0401; Fax: (270) 483-6221; Contact Form: http://www.wecarefamilies.com/contacts/new; Web: http://www.wecarefamilies.com/services/safespace 

We Care offers a unique foster/mentor program for Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender, Questioning Youth (LBGTQ) to encourage the self realization of orientation and identity, using their strength as an individual. Serving youth from Todd, Logan, Christian and Trigg counties in Kentucky and Montgomery County in Tennessee.

Louisiana (LA)  top

The Color Kids - Sponsored by the Lesbian and Gay Community Center of New Orleans, 2114 Decatur Street, New Orleans, LA - between Elysian Fields and Frenchman; Phone: 504-945-1103.

This group is a vibrant and diverse collection of people ages 15-22, who meet every Saturday from 1-4 pm at the Center.

Maine (ME)  top

Outright/ Lewiston-Auburn - Contact Person: Penny Sargent, Program Coordinator; Mailing address: Outright Lewiston/Auburn P. O. Box 70 Auburn ME 04212-0070, Phone: (207) 795-8956; Email for General Information: info@outrightla.org; Contact Form:   http://www.outrightla.org/contact.php,  Website: http://www.outrightla.org

A queer youth program of Western Maine Community Action serving Androscoggin and Oxford Counties providing support and education services to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and questioning youth age 22 and under, as well as a place for youth to meet and make new friends in a safe, accepting environment.

Proud Rainbow Youth of Southern Maine (PRYSM): a program of Community Counseling Center in Portland, ME;  Phone: 207-874-1022 or 207-874-1030 ext. 513; Email: info@commcc.org; Website: http://www.commcc.org 

PRYSM provides a safe and positive space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and allied (LGBTQA) young people that offers social support, leadership development and community education. Contact person: Joanna Testa, PRYSM program coordinator. Email: jtesta@commcc.org  or prysm@commcc.org 

Also offered by Community Counseling Center: Case Management for LGBTQ Youth, the only program of its kind in Maine, assists lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people with mental health concerns in accessing community services and programs. 343 Forest Avenue Portland, Maine 04101;Phone: (207) 874-1030; TTY: (207) 874-1043; Fax (207) 874-1044.

Maryland (MD)  top

Rainbow Youth Alliance of Columbia/Howard County - Columbia; the RYA coordinator is Jason. Contact him at RYALeader@comcast.net. You may also phone RYA through PFLAG Columbia/Howard County at 410-290-8292 - ask for Colette.

Provides a safe space for GLBTQ youth (22 and under). Meets at 7:30pm on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center, 7426 Cradlerock Way, in Columbia, Maryland.

SAIM (Sufficient As I Am) - GLCCB; 241 West Chase Street; Baltimore, MD 21201; Phone: (410) 837-5445; Helpline (Youth): (410) 234-8057; Fax: (410) 837-4114; Website: http://www.glccb.org 

SAIM is a support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning youth and young allies, ages 24 and under. SAIM Group Meeting is on Every Saturday from 12:30 - 3:00 pm. on the second floor of GLBTQ Center 

Massachusetts (MA)  top

Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered and Questioning Youth - BAGLY - 14 Beacon St. #506 Boston, MA 02108; Mailing address: BAGLY, Inc. P.O. Box 814 Boston, MA 02103;  Phone: 617.227.4313; Fax: 617.227.3266; TTY: 617.523.8341; Website: http://www.bagly.org

BAGLY holds weekly meetings where youth, 22 and under, can meet new friends and learn about each other's experiences and by planning and coordinating events.

Boston GLASS - a drop-in center for glbtq young people between the ages of 13 and 25. They are at 93 Massachusetts Ave., 3rd floor in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston. Phone: 617.266.3349; Website: http://www.bostonglass.org; Email: cmoniz@jri.org 

This is a safe space to hang out at, make new friends, and relax. They have a darkroom, computer stations, a library, a TV room, and a kitchen where you can grab a bite to eat. They have a staff of full-time professionals to offer support and resources. 

Cape & Islands Gay & Lesbian Youth Group - Yarmouthport; Phone:  (508) 824-8882 Framingham Regional Alliance of Gay/Lesbian Youth (FRAGLY) - PO Box 426, Framingham, MA 01704; Phone: (508) 655-7183 GLBT Youth Group Network of Massachusetts - a collaboration of community-based youth groups for GLBT youth: For info or to find a youth group in your area, please call 1-877-GAY-TEEN or 617-227-4313; TTY: 617-983-9845. E-mail: kavila@bagly.org 

Lowell Teen Center/Pride Alliance - Lowell; Phone: (978) 937-6047 Metro Southeast Gay & Lesbian Youth - Brockton; Phone: (508) 583-2350 Out Now-Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual Youth Group - Springfield/Amherst; Phone: (413) 253-2822 Pride Zone GLBTQA Youth Center - 34 Maplewood Shops (Basement Space, next to Northriver Rentals), Northampton, Massachusetts; phone: 413-584-1116; email: przone@valinet.com; Website: http://www.pridezone.org

Pride Zone is a youth center for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and straight youth ages 22 and under. They are open 3-4 nights a week and host a number of support groups, events and will soon be opening an tutoring and life-skills management program.

Project 10 East. - 402A Highland Ave. Suite K Somerville MA 02144 ; Phone: 617-864-GLBT; Mail: PO Box 382401 Cambridge MA 02238; Email: ashlee@project10east.org; Website: http://www.project10east.org 

Project 10 East works to create and sustain safe space in schools and communities where young people can experience mutual respect with a focus on personal excellence, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation or the perception thereof. Assistance starting GSAs, sustaining GSAs, advisor support and community forums. Safe space is everyone's right. 

The West Suburban Alliance of Gay and Lesbian Youth (WAGLY) - a charitable organization with the mission of supporting the physical, social, and emotional well-being of GLBTQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning) high school youth and allies in the Metro West Boston area by creating and sustaining social and educational programs using peer leadership and adult guidance. Email: info@WAGLY.org;  Websites: http://www.wagly.org/ and http://www.facebook.com/WAGLY  

WAGLY holds regular meetings every Monday evening from 7-8:30pm (except school vacation weekends).

Michigan (MI)  top

Michigan Safe Schools Coalition: Triangle Foundation; 19641 W. 7 Mile Rd. Detroit, MI 48219; Phone: 313-537-7000; Fax: 313-537-3379; Email: sean@tri.org; Website: http://www.tri.org/our-campaigns/safe-schools.html and http://www.tri.org/our-issues/bullying.html

Affirmations Lesbian/Gay Community Center - 290 W. Nine Mile Road Ferndale, MI 48220 Helpline: 1-800-398-GAYS; Business: 248.398.7105; FAX: 248.541.1943; Email: affirmationsglbt@juno.com; Website: http://www.goaffirmations.org/site/PageServer?pagename=programs_youth 

Special events and these ongoing activities:

• The Affirnews Press meets the second and fourth Friday of the month from 6:00pm-8:00pm.

• The Dance Project meets every Friday from 8:00pm-10:00pm.

• Regional Gay Straight Alliance meets the first and third Saturday of the month from 1:00pm-3:00pm.

• TransYouth Group meets the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 4:00pm-6:00pm.

• Youth Expansion Program (YEP) offered every Friday and Saturday from 6:00pm-11:30pm.

• Youth Chorus meets every Wednesday from 6:00pm-8:00pm.

• Youth Group meets the first and third Friday of the month from 4:00pm - 6:00pm.

• Youth Leadership Council - For an application, plase e-mail Laura Sorensen.

• Youth Zone Drop-in offered every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 4:00pm-8:00pm.  

The Kalamazoo Gay & Lesbian Resource Center Youth Group - 629 Pioneer Street - Kalamazoo, MI. 49008; Office: (616) 349-4234; Resource Line: (616) 731-2008; Toll free: 1 (888) 377-7271; E-mail: mailto:youth@kglrc.org; Website: http://www.kglrc.org/youth.htm

The Resource Center Youth Group is here to help young people age 21 or under who are coming to terms with their sexuality in a sometimes hostile society. We meet 7-9 pm every Thursday in downtown Kalamazoo. Video night is every second Thursday of the month starting at 6:30 pm. For directions to meetings, call the office at 616-327-8107 from 8am to 8pm daily, or the Lesbian/Gay Resource Line at 616-731-2008 from 7-10pm daily. 

Ypsilanti Youth Drop-In Center - a project of Ozone House. In 1998, Ozone House opened the Ypsilanti Youth Drop-In Center to better serve the needs of young people in the Ypsilanti community. This site is home to our Street Outreach Program and offers a variety of programs, services and activities to hundreds of youth each year, including: life skills development, tutoring, crisis intervention, Queerzone (a social and support group for LGBTQ youth), YMI, Project Speak Out, and the always popular Lyricists Lounge. 102 N. Hamilton, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. Phone: 734-485-2222; Fax: 734-485-8280; Contact person: Colleen O'Brien Youth Development Director, Drop In Center: cobrien@ozonehouse.org

Ypsilanti Youth Drop-In Center hours: Monday through Thursday 4 PM to 8 PM, Friday 4 PM to 6 PM; QUEERZONE: Fridays 6:30 - 8:30 PM.

Minnesota (MN)  top

Bemidji Safe Youth Program - 1418 Bemidji Avenue, Suite 1, P. O. Box 662, Bemidji, MN 56619-0662, Phone: (218) 751-8223; Website: http://www.evergreenhouse.org/ecommd.htm

The Bemidji Safe Youth Group is open to all high school age youth who are sensitive to the issues of GLBTQ people and want a safe and supportive place to meet, to learn, and most of all to be completely yourself. The Bemidji Safe Youth Group meets every Thursday afternoon on days when school is in session. Please contact Evergreen Community Services for times and locations. The BemidjiSafe Youth & Family Program also has a speaker's bureau.

District 202 - PO Box 8139, St. Paul, MN 55108; Phone: 651-340-6167; Website: http://www.dist202.org; Contact form: http://www.dist202.org/contact-us.    District 202 does not have a centralized location, but instead offers programs, events and support groups all around the Twin City Metro area.

LGBT youth age 13-21 can come to one of District 202's many monthly social events and participate in a variety of programs, often administered by youth. These events and programs offer community and can provide youth with a wide range of valuable skills and tools. Each month there are 2-3 programs that focus on a variety of skills and service such as: Creative Expression, Social Justice, Life Skills, Health and Wellness and Social Interaction.Youth outside the Twin Cities a place to find community online through District 202's web site and secure social networking environment.

Eclipse - University Lutheran Church of the Epiphany 390 4th Ave S. St. Cloud, MN 56301; Phone: 320-252-2944

This St. Cloud Area Gay/Straight Alliance for high school age youth is called "Eclipse" which means to 'block out hatred'. The group is for high school age youth who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning or straight allies. It is also for youth whose parents are glbta. Our meetings are run by a steering committee composed of youth from different high schools in the St. Cloud Area. There are adult advisors that assist in planning the meetings and are present supervising the meetings and activities. The adults are from the St. Cloud Area PFLAG organization and the St. Cloud Area Task Force for GLBTQA Youth. The adult advisors are parents, educators, counselors, and social workers experienced in assisting youth to make healthy choices as they grow into healthy adults. We will also host monthly social events such as bowling, attending a play, movies, etc. that glbtqa youth can attend together with adult supervision.

GLBT-KIDS: Abuse Intervention Program - Family & Children's Service; 4123 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN  55406-2028; Contact person: Leigh Combs, GLBT KIDS: Abuse Intervention Program Coordinator; Phone: 612-728-2079; Phone statewide GLBT KIDS Information Line: 1-877-GLBT-KIDS (1-877-452-8543); Email: lcombs@fcsmn.org; Website: http://www.fcsmn.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B04F07EE9-112B-4443-BDE8-E6DD6BD471BF%7D 

GLBT KIDS offers support, referrals, resources, training and connections about and for GLBTQIA (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex and allied) youth - who are or have experienced abuse or mistreatment - and for their families, caregivers, professional and others who care about them.
The program provides:

• Customized training for professionals, community members and youth on a wide-range of topics.

• Technical assistance to help organizations, clinics and schools who want to assess their GLBT environment and programs.

• Resources and referrals for youth, families and professionals.

GLYS Youth Support Group / Rochester Gay and Lesbian Youth Services / Gay Lesbian Youth Services of Southeast Minnesota - Mailing address: P.O Box 91, Rochester, MN 55903; Phone: (507) 289-6329; Email: info@gayyouthrochestermn.org; Website: http://www.gayyouthrochestermn.org/

• GLYS Youth Support Group provides gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning teens (ages 13-18) and their supportive friends a safe place to meet and talk with each other.

• Sometimes have speakers talking about issues that concern us, and occasionally plan fun, social activities.

• Meetings take place in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental atmosphere with adult facilitators.

• Thursday evenings from 5-7 PM at 1500 First Avenue NE.

Lesbian & Gay Youth Together (LGYT)/Teen Age Gays of St Paul (TAGS) - St. Paul; Phone: 612-224-3371 Minnesota School Outreach Coalition (MnSOC): 414 South Eighth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55404; Phone: 612-339-9101; Phone toll free: 1-877-452-8543; Email: SchoolCoalition@mn.rr.com; Contact form: http://www.mnschooloutreach.org/_mgxroot/page_10737.html; Website: http://www.mnschooloutreach.org/  

MnSOC is a coalition of Minnesota Students, educators, families, community members, and organizations working within the broad context of schools to address the issues of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression. Our Mission: To create healthy learning environments that are inclusive, supportive, and safe, and where sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions are respected. We pursue our mission through advocacy, education, and community building.

Minnesota School OUTreach Coalition: Working to create healthy learning environments that are inclusive, supportive, and safe, and where dual orientation and gender identity / expressions are respected. MnSOC services include: Education: Statewide trainings and in-services for K-12 educational institutions and other organizations seeking additional information about GLBT people, topics, and creating affirming enviroments. Technical Assistance: Consultations about particular issues involving sexual orientation or gender identity, including policies regarding "Gay-Straight Alliances." Legal Information: Information regarding such statues as the Minnesota Human Rights Act and the Equal Access Act, and how they apply to GLBT individuals or student groups. Student Oriented Programs: Annual events such as GLBT lobby day at the state capitol, Day of Silence/Night of Noise celebration, and our state-wide youth conference: Q-Quest Youth Fest. MnSOC Newsletter. Address: 4123 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55406; Phone: (877) 452-8543; Email: info@mnschooloutreach.org; Website: http://www.mnschooloutreach.org

Out4Good: gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender program of Minneapolis Public Schools - 425 Fifth Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413; Phone: 612-668-5482; Contact: Jessi Tebben; Email: jessi.tebben@mpls.k12.mn.us ; Website: http://sss.mpls.k12.mn.us/Out4Good.html

Creating safe and supportive schools for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender students, families, teachers and staff in Minneapolis Public Schools.

Services for students:

• GLBTQ support groups

• Peer Educators/Student Speakers' Bureau

• Student social action groups (Gay/Straight Alliances)

• Individual counseling and resource information

• Safe Staff programs in schools

Services for staff:

• GLBT and allies staff networking

• Trainings on topics including:  harassment intervention, inclusivity, GLBT Awareness

• Technical support and resource information

• Classroom enrichment activities and lessons, as well as speakers resources

• Individual consultation, support advocacy

• Resource Library, including videos, books, articles and magazines available to check out

• Partnership with Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN)

Services for families:         

• Information on assessing school choice

• Parent consultation and support

• School and family resource information

• Family involvement workshops for families and staff

Out for Equity: Address: Wellstone School, 65 E. Kellogg Blvd., Saint Paul, MN 55101; Phone: (651) 523-6322; Fax: (651) 523-6323; Website: http://outforequity.spps.org

Committed to serving GLBTQ students, staff, families, and their allies, Out for Equity is a program in the St. Paul Public Schools in Minnesota. It is one of only five such programs in the country that works within a school district, and only one of three that is funded by the school district. Out for Equity's mission is "Every student, staff and family deserves a safe and affirming school environment that promotes positive self esteem, respect for others and academic success." They provide teacher training, support groups, Gay/Straight Alliances, resource distribution, a recreation center for youth. and more 

Rainbow Families® School Initiative: Contact person: Stephanie Hazen, School Initiative Program Director; Address: Rainbow Families ^TM, 711 West Lake Street, Suite 210, Minneapolis, MN 55408; Phone: 612-823-5145, Email: schools@rainbowfamilies.org; Website: http://www.rainbowfamilies.org/school/index.html

• Works to create school environments in Minnesota that are safe, welcoming, and inclusive of children with one or more lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) parents.

• Support educators, both teachers and administrators, in individual schools as well as school districts, as they work to ensure safety and build welcoming settings for children from LGBT families. Rainbow Families ® has a strong commitment to seeing this begin as early as possible in schools, as children from LGBT families often face bullying and discrimination starting in Pre-K.

• Work with LGBT parents as they navigate the school experience with their child, to help build the bridges that make schools safe, welcoming, and inclusive for their children.

Together for Youth - Duluth, MN; Email: shirley@togetherforyouth.org; Phone: 218-726-4889. Social and support group meets weekly and there's also a speakers bureau and a drama group.

Mississippi (MS)  top

Mississippi Safe Schools Coalition (MSSC): Website: http://www.mssafeschools.org/  

The mission of the Mississippi Safe Schools Coalition is to ensure that all students have a safe learning environment by protecting students' constitutional rights, ending discrimination, and fostering acceptance through public education. MSSC is collecting data of incidents of harassment, discrimination, ridicule, or embarrassment based on student sexual orientation or gender non-conformity, whether actual or perceived. Only with a substantial amount of stories and narratives can we begin to argue for change.

Missouri (MO)  top

Growing American Youth (GAY) provides opportunities, direction, support, information, and social and recreational activities for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth under 21. GAY meets every Thursday night from 7-8:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 600 N. Euclid in the Central West End, St. Louis, MO. Mail: PO Box 11785 St. Louis MO 63105; Phone: (314) 821-3524; Email: info@growingamericanyouth.org; Website: http://www.growingamericanyouth.org 

Gay and Lesbian Community Center of the Ozarks (GLO) - 518 East Commercial Street; Springfield, Missouri 65801; Phone: (417) 869-3978; Email: glocenter@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.glocenter.org; Youth Hours (20 years old and younger):  Tuesday 3-10 PM,  4th Friday every month 6 PM-Close

Passages - 4007 Central, Kansas City, MO 64111; Phone: (816) 931-0334; Website: http://www.kcpassages.org 

Dedicated to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, straight-allied and questioning youth. Saturday - Club Queer under-21 dance club 8:30-1:00am; Sunday - open 6:00pm then 6:30-7:30 Coffee Talk moderated group discussion on various relevant youth-chosen topics; Sunday Program (varies from educational to entertaining.) 

THE Safe Schools Coalition OF MISSOURI: a team of organizations across the state working to end bullying in Missouri Public Schools, supported by PROMO, Missouri's statewide organization advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender equality through legislative action, electoral politics, grassroots organizing, and community education. Contact: Morgan Keenan, Safe Schools Field Organizer, PROMO Fund; Email: Morgan@promoonline.org; Phone: (314) 862-4900; Website: http://www.safeschoolsmissouri.org/

Montana (MT)  top

Montana Safe Schools Coalition: offers teacher workshops to educate school officials and teachers about the harmful effects of the anti-gay bias on ALL students and to help them develop skills to address it: http://www.mhrn.org/safeschoolscoalition.html

Nebraska (NE)  top

Gay and Lesbian Youth Talk Line - Lincoln; Phone: (402) 473-7932 Support for Lesbigay Youth - Omaha; Phone: (402) 291-6781

New Hampshire (NH)  top

OUTRIGHT - Outright's mission is to create safe, positive, and affirming environments for young gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and questioning people ages 22 and under. Outright aspires to a youth-driven philosophy in which youth needs and beliefs form decisions, and a collaboration of youth and adults provides support, education, advocacy, and social activities. In NH the groups are Keene, NH - (877) 517 7522 ext. 576; Manchester, NH - Phone: (603) 537 7004; Nashua, NH - Phone: (603) 889 8210; Portsmouth, NH - Phone: (603) 431 1013.. Most groups meet weekly or biweekly. 

Portsmouth-Seacoast Outright is an educational, social service, advocacy organization that offers services to gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and questioning youth (21 and under) in the greater New   Hampshire, southern Maine, and northern Massachusetts Seacoast region. Seacoast Outright is a support and advocacy organization that seeks to change the social climate for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning youth in the NH Seacoast. Through support and social groups, youth empower one another to stand proud and live into their full potential, and our youth-driven cultural competency trainings and speaker's bureau teach leadership skills to glbtqq youth, while educating our larger community. Phone: 603-552-5824; Website: http://seacoastoutright.org/

Manchester Outright (MO) is a strictly confidential social/support group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning (GLBTQ) youth and their allies ages 21 and under.  Our mission is to provide support to and enhance the positive development of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth, ages 21 and under, in the Greater Manchester area. Website: http://www.manchesteroutright.com/

Lakes Region Outright - website: http://lakesregionoutright.webs.com/

New Jersey (NJ)  top

BRAY Bergen Rainbow Youth - Meets at the Ethical Culture Society Building - 687 Larch Avenue, Teaneck, New Jersey,.07666; Phone: (888) 345-1886; Email: info@b-ray.org; Website: http://www.b-ray.org 

Social support group in a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ kids, ages 14 - 21 from 2pm-5pm. Meets every Sunday (except during three day weekends) from 2pm - 5pm. Other social events are scheduled throughout the year. 

HiTops ("Health Interested Teens Own Program on Sexuality") - 21 Wiggins Street; Princeton NJ 08540; Phone: (609) 683-5155; Email: hitopskids@hitops.org; Website: http://www.hitops.org

"First & Third" is a professionally run group that provides educational and social support for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth. Activities include rap sessions, phone help, guest speakers, and mutual sharing. Meets from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on first and third Saturday of the month. Call Corrine during the day at (609) 683-5155.

Keeping It Safe (KIS) - 514 Cooper St., Camden, New Jersey 08102; Phone: (856) 963-2432; Email: little_m@camden-ahec.org

KIS is a social support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered youth. Meets at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.

ThePride Center of New Jersey Youth Groups - 048 Livingston Avenue, North Brunswick, NJ 08902; Mailing address: PO Box 5130, New Brunswick, NJ 08903;  Phone: 732/846-2232.

• Under the Rainbow: Both a discussion group and a social group for young GLBT people ages 18-25. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:30pm.

• Youth Drop In: For LGBTIQ youth and their straight allies ages 17 and under. Meets second, third and fourth Saturdays at 1:00 p.m.

ViSAGE (Verona Straight and Gay Experience) Visage for Youth, Inc. - Verona, NJ 07044; Phone: 1-973-285-1595; Email: visageforyouth@hotmail.com

ViSAGE is a social support network for young people ages 14-21, who are self-identified as gay, lesbian. bisexual, transgender, or who are unsure of their sexual orientation or gender identity; and straight or heterosexual individuals. Straight members must be supportive of the gay community or seek to educate themselves in the area of sexual or gender orientation to be supportive of friends, family members or peers. VISAGE provides their members with appropriate peer interactions, promotes a positive entry into the g/l/b/t/ community and seeks to educate members about receiving acceptance in all communities.

New Mexico (NM)  top

Common Bond Under 21 Youth Group - Albuquerque; Phone: 891-3647 *21 (star + 21); Email:  under21group@yahoo.com; Website: http://members.aol.com/commnbond/under21.html and http://www.under21group.com

New York (NY)  top

Albany Capital District Lesbian & Gay Youth Group - Phone: (518) 266-8041

Albany Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Center- 332 Hudson Avenue; Albany, NY. 12210; Phone: (518) 462-6138; Fax: (518) 462-2101; Email: cdglcc@aol.com; Website: http://www.cdglcc.org

Albany Gay and Lesbian Young Adult Support Group (GLYA) -  This support group offers peer support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (lgbtq) individuals ages 13-18. The group is a supportive environment for lgbtq youth and their straight allies to discuss issues of coming out, family, school, work, and relationships among their peers. It's not just a group about being gay. It's a group about being young and being who you are. Come and join at 332 Hudson Ave. in Albany. The group meets every Friday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

The Audre Lorde Project - 85 South Oxford Street, 3rd Floor; Brooklyn, NY. 11217; Phone: (718) 596-0342; Email: altinfo@alt.org

Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, Transgender Youth of New York (BiGLTYNY) - New York City; Phone: (212) 620-7310

Broome County LGBTQ Youth Coalition - To find out more about the Broome LGBTQ Youth Coalition, please contact the Coalition's sponsoring organizations: i3-ignite insight inspire, Sponsored by STAP, 607-651-9175 or Lesbian and Gay Family Building Project, 607-724-4308, option 3, Director@PrideAndJoyFamilies.org;
Website: http://www.qgear.org/Broome LBGTQ Youth Coalition/Splash Page.htm

Broome County LGBTQ Youth Coalition addresses issues related to LGBTQ youth such as safer schools, safe socialization and sensitivity of youth-serving professionals. It works to increase community support for, and awareness and understanding of the needs of LGBTQ youth and youth with LGBTQ parents.  The Coalition includes young people, school personnel, medical and mental health providers and other youth-serving professionals, parents and community members. They represent people of all sexual and gender identities, coming together to create safer and healthier communities that enrich and advance the lives of local LGBTQ young people. The Coalition provides free awareness and educational workshops and trainings to professional and community groups.  They produce and distribute free LGBTQ youth resources.  The Coalition sponsors Beyond the Rainbow Wall, a weekly support group for LGBTQ-identified youth ages 14-20.

Capital District L&G Youth Group - Albany, NY; Phone: (518) 266-8041

The Coalition for Safer Schools of New York State - Saratoga, NY; Email: saratogany@aol.com

COMETFIRE - GLBTQ in Middle School - Every other Monday Spring 2010. Next meetings: May 10, May 24, Jun 14 - 4:30-6 pm; The Jewish Community Center in Manhattan, The Samuel Priest Rose Building (7th floor); 334 Amsterdam Ave. @ 76th St.; New York, NY.; Website: http://www.jccmanhattan.org/lgbtq; For questions about this group email Alissa Wise at alissa@mayan.org

 

A free discussion group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning 11 to 14 year-olds. This safe and private space allows middle school/junior high students the opportunity to talk about their gender and sexuality in a non-judgmental, fun, supportive environment. Snacks will be served!

FIERCE! - Fabulous Independent Educated Radicals for Community Empowerment: hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 12-8 p.m. Our drop-in hours are Monday through Friday 4-8 p.m. 147 West 24th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011; Phone: (646) 336-6789; Fax: (646) 336-6788; Email: info@fiercenyc.org; Website: http://www.fiercenyc.org/

FIERCE! is a community organization for transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, two spirit, queer, and questioning (TLGBTSQQ) youth of color in New York City. We are dedicated to exploring and building power in our communities through a mix of leadership development, artistic and cultural activism, political education, and campaign development while taking care of ourselves and each other. We take on the institutions that perpetuate transphobia, homophobia, racism, ethnic conflict, gender bias, economic injustice, ageism, and the spread of HIV, STIs, STDs, and other mental and physical health crises - that make daily survival a terrifying challenge for many TLGBTSQQ youth. FIERCE organizes against the injustices of the criminal "justice" system, housing, employment, education, and healthcare systems. We believe in ethic of organizing by us, for us. Now that's FIERCE!

Gay and Lesbian Adolescent Health Resource Center (GLAHRC) - a program of Adolescent AIDS Program at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center based in the Bronx, New York. GLAHRC serves people throughout New York State. For more information, call Lissette Marrero at 718-882-0232, ext. 223 or send an email at lmarrero@adolescentAIDS.org; Website: http://www.adolescentaids.org/glahrc.html 

Gay & Lesbian Youth of Hudson Valley - Congers; Phone: (914) 948-4922

Gay Alliance of the Genessee Valley -  875 East Main Street, Suite 500; Rochester, NY 14605-2747; Phone: 585-244-8640;  Fax 585.244.8246; Website: http://www.gayalliance.org; Youth Services Director: Toby Greenfield. Email: tobyg@gagv.us  (585) 244-8640 ext. 13. Youth group website:  http://youth.gayalliance.org/

"The mission of our Youth Programs, which are open to all youth ages 13-23, is to provide a safe and supportive place for us to discuss issues concerning our sexuality and gender identity and to find validation that our sexual orientation and gender identity are  normal, healthy and integral aspects of our personhood."

Gay and Lesbian Youth Services of Western New York (GLYS) - 371 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, NY 14202; Phone: (716) 855-0221; Fax: (716) 855.0661 The drop-in center is located in the Trinity Place Co-op of Trinity Church at 371 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo. The entrance is under the blue-green awnings. Email: glys@glyswny.org ; Website: http://www.glyswny.org 

GLYS offers a variety of opportunities and services for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and questioning youth ages 14~21. The drop-in center is open Monday through Thursday 3:30~8:30 p.m. Friday 3:00~6:00 p.m. [It is not open on Fridays during July and August.] Check the calendar before you visit for the first time. They occasionally open later than 3:30 or close earlier than 8:30 for off site events or activities. 

Gay, Bi & Lesbian Youth Group - Queens County, NY; Phone:  (718) 896-2500

The Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI) - 2 Astor Place; New York, NY 10003; Phone: 212.674.2400; TTY: 1.212.674.8695; Fax: 1.212.674.8650; Email: info@hmi.org; Website: http://www.hmi.org

The Institute's youth service programs are for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth between the ages of 12 and 21 and their families. The After School Drop-In Center is open weekdays from 3 to 6:30pm.

Lesbian & Gay Youth of Rochester - Phone: (716) 251-9604 or (716) 442-2986

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center - 208 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011; Phone:  (212) 620-7310; Email:  info@gaycenter.org; Website:  http://www.gaycenter.org

“The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center provides a home for the birth, nurture and celebration of our organizations, institutions and culture; cares for our individuals and groups in need; educates the public and our community; and empowers our individuals and groups to achieve their fullest potential." The Center's Youth Enrichment Services (Y.E.S.) Program offers lgbt youth under the age of twenty -two the opportunity to build community, a support system, self explore and learn in a safe, drug and alcohol free environment. http://www.gaycenter.org/program_folders/YES

Live Our Loud - 570 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10018, 17th Floor; Mailing address: PO BOX 312, New York, NY 10113; Phone: 646.366.5721; Fax: 212-869-7536; Email: info@liveoutloud.info; Website: http://www.liveoutloud.info/ 

• Live Our Loud connects LGBT youth to leaders and role models in the LGBT community through programming and workshops. They establish partnerships with different LGBT youth organizations, colleges, universities, high school Gay/Straight alliances and all young people who are interested in hearing from inspirational role models.

• Live Out Loud organizes panel discussions series about men and women in the gay community who are passionate and powerful in their life's work, who are making a difference in the community and who are interested in sharing their story with LGBT youth. Their programs are held after school and recently at high school general assemblies in front of 200 or more students.

• Live Out Loud grants scholarships to those students who are taking charge of their own lives and who have demonstrated a strong capacity to 'Live Out Loud' themselves, making strides in the LGBT community.

Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) - 34 Park Avenue, Bay Shore, NY 11706-7309; Phone: 631-665-2300; Email:  info@ligaly.com; Website:  http://www.ligaly.com 

Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) serves gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) youth, young adults, and their families living in Nassau and Suffolk Counties of Long Island. 

Pride for Youth at the Long Island Crisis Center - Bellmore; Phone: (516) 679-9000; Website: http://www.longislandcrisiscenter.org/pfyindex.htm 

Queens County Gay, Bi & Lesbian Youth Group - Phone: (718) 896-2500

Safer Community Project for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Youth.  AIDS Community Resource Center. Youth services available in Utica & Syracuse.  The Safer Community Project provides an adult facilitated space for LGBTQ youth ages 14-20 to discuss their lives and receive support.  Syracuse : Thursdays 7-8:30; Utica: Sundays 4-6.  Syracuse Transgender Youth Group Meeting for young people ages 14-24: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of each month from 3:30-5:00.  For more information: (800) 475-2430; Website: http://www.aidscommunityresources.com/ (and click on 'our services" and 'youth' on the bar at the top.)

Bronx Community Pride Center (BCPC) Youth Services: BCPC is committed to nurturing and empowering members of our community to enjoy and realize their full potential. We provide direct social services, cultural sensitivity trainings, community education and a home to promote the health, education, social growth and well-being of the Bronx LGBT community. Address: 448 East 149th Street, Bronx, NY 10455; Phone: 718-292-4368; Website: http://www.bronxpride.org/what-we-do/youth-services/

Spot Next Door: the only LGBT youth program in the Bronx, which provides a safe haven for youth to learn new skills, socialize with their peers and develop their full potential in a supportive and empowering environment. This program of BCPC is dynamic programming including: educational enrichment, job readiness, dance, photography, jewelry-making, sexuality education, financial literacy, and youth leadership, as well as support groups for young men, women, and transgender persons. The Spot Next Door is open Monday through Friday from 2:00- 6:00 pm. To refer a youth for The Spot Next Door, find out details about upcoming events and programs, or for any other question about this program email the program coordinator: ktrueblood@bronxpride.org; Website: http://www.bronxpride.org/what-we-do/youth-services/spot-next-door/ 

Operation Home Base: a crisis and clinical case management program for homeless and at-risk youth that offers referral to crisis housing shelters as well as ongoing counseling and referrals to a wealth of social service resources to meet clients' needs. This program of BCPC  has skilled case managers who assist clients with overcoming psychological, psychosocial, academic, employment, and legal barriers in order to achieve and exceed their personal goals. If you have questions about this program email the program coordinator: nmorgan@bronxpride.org; Website: http://www.bronxpride.org/what-we-do/youth-services/operation-home-base/

The BCPC Youth Leadership Institute: a twelve-week program designed to foster personal growth and civic responsibility in young people ages 16-24. Each cycle of the program guides 25-30 young people through a series of workshops and discussion groups designed to encourage personal achievement and community leadership. Participants meet weekly as a group in addition to one-on-one sessions with the Program Leaders. Recent programming has included a discussion series on anger management and consequential thinking, a professional photography course, and workshops on job readiness and career planning. If you are interested in joining the Youth Leadership Institute, please contact us at 718-292-4368.

BCPC Youth Advisory Board: If you are a young person, age 16-24, who is interested in joining our Youth Advisory Board to help us design our youth programming, please contact us at 718-292-4368. Website: http://www.bronxpride.org/what-we-do/youth-services/youth-advisory-board/

BCPC Legal Services: In collaboration with the Urban Justice Center's Peter Cicchino Youth Project, BCPC Legal Services offers free and confidential legal consultations for all interested clients. Please contact us at 718-292-4368 if you would like to speak with an attorney.

Teen Advocacy & Support Services (TASS) Program - part of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley; 179 Atlantic Ave; Rochester, NY 14607-1255. For more information on the TASS Program, contact Patty Hayes, our Youth Program Coordinator. Phone: 585.244.8640; Email:  pattyh@gayalliance.org; Website: http://youth.gayalliance.org

The TASS Program provides comprehensive advocacy and support services to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth and their family members. The services include a weekly support group, social activities, crisis intervention counseling and case management services, a phone-line 585.244.8640, and sensitivity training sessions and educational materials for youth, their family members, youth-service providers and area school districts. 

TRUST - a project of CANDLE (Community Awareness Network for a Drugfree Life & Environment); 120 North Main Street Suite 301, New City, NY 10956; Phone: (845) 634-6677; Email - Alex Medina: useralex4272@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.trustyourself.org 

 

TRUST is a group for LGBT and questioning youth 21 and under that meets every Wednesday in Rockland County, NY. It is a project of CANDLE, whose mission is the prevention of substance abuse and violence among youth. Call CANDLE for the exact location where TRUST meets.

Youth Enrichment Services (Y.E.S.) - a program of The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center; 208 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011; Phone: (212) 620-7310; Email: info@gaycenter.org; Website: http://www.gaycenter.org/programs/mhss/yes.html  Phone: (212) 620-7310 and ask for Youth Enrichment Services (YES).

Y.E.S. offers lgbt youth under the age of twenty-two the opportunity to build community, a support system, self explore and learn in a safe, drug and alcohol free environment. Ending isolation through activity-based programming, support groups and peer leadership development continues to be one of the primary goals of the program. Y.E.S. has expanded into an integrated, holistic empowerment program that supports the creation of a vibrant youth culture through the arts, peer mentorship and peer education programs. 

The Youth Pride Chorus - a program combining the program specialties of the New York City Gay Men's Chorus and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center of New York. It is a completely free program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender young people and their allies between the ages of 14-21. Participants learn choral music in weekly rehearsals and perform in concerts here at The Center and on the road. Auditions for the Youth Pride Chorus are held in September and January.  â€œPerhaps one of the greatest emotional pains any person can experience is that of being isolated and ostracized,â€� says Richard D. Burns, executive director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. “The Youth Pride Chorus has the ability to break isolation so many LGBT youth confront. The community supports young people by supporting the Youth Pride Chorus.â€�  

Nevada (NV)  top

The Safe Schools Coalition of Northern Nevada: Reno, NV; 775-786-5252

The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada (The Center) Address: 953 E Sahara Ave. #B-31, Las Vegas, NV 89104; Phone: 702-733-9800; Website: http://www.thecenterlv.com; Twitter: @QueerYouthLV

The Youth Activity Center (YAC) is a 600 square foot drop-in area for LGBTQ youth and their allies. The YAC includes a cyber center (computer lab) with free internet access, foosball and pool table, youth-specific literature and referrals, classroom space, and access to supportive adult volunteers and staff members. The YAC's mission is to provide educational, cultural, recreational and social opportunities for LGBT youth and their allies in a safe, supportive and substance-free space. Several social/discussion groups meet in the YAC every week, including:

R.U.1.2., a group for LGBTQ youth and their allies, ages 13 through 19. Participants are provided with an opportunity to interact with their peers and discuss personal feelings and experiences about a variety of issues, including bullying, coming out, school issues, etc. This group meets every Thursday from 6:00-7:00 pm.

17-24, a group for LGBT youth and their allies, ages 17-24. This group provides an opportunity for young adults to discuss current events and trends in the overall LGBT and global communities, learn the art of respectfully disagreeing with others in a group setting and share personal experiences on a variety of subjects. 17-24 meets every Thursday from 7:00-8:00 pm.

Gay Youth Outreach Project (GYOP) - Ethnic Student Resource Center; University of Nevada, Reno campus; Reno, NV; Email: glbsu@asun.unr.edu; 

A youth group for ages 21 and under. Meets every Tuesday on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. The main meeting usually begins at 7pm. Due to the high sensitivity of the group and our commitment to its members confidentiality, meetings are held in a safe location.

North Carolina (NC)  top

Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA): Address: AFFA, PO Box 22088, Charleston, SC 29413; Phone: (843) 883-0343; Fax: 843-723-3859; Email: info@affa-sc.org; Website: http://www.affa-sc.org

AFFA offers small grants to LGBTQ projects to organizations serving North and/or South Carolina youth. More broadly, AFFA is a social justice organization based in Charleston, SC that works to achieve equality and acceptance for LGBTQ people.

A Safer Place Youth Network (ASPYN): Phone: (919) 821-0055; Email: aspyn@tcworks.org; Website: http://www.tcworks.org/aspyn

ASPYN is for youth ages 13 to 23, and adults working together to make Wake County a safe, healthy, and life affirming place for Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Transgender, Questioning and Allied (LGBTQ&A) youth. ASPYN sponsors Coffee House Hang-OUTs, and informal social gatherings for LGBTQ and allied youth ages 13-23 facilitated by ASPYN volunteers. Held 5:30-7:30 pm on the 2nd Saturdays of the month in Durham, and the 4th Saturdays of the month in Raleigh.

Gay Straight Advocates For Education (GSAFE): PO Box 41044, Greensboro, NC 27404; Phone: (336) 271-8428; Email: contact@gsafe.org; Website: http://www.gsafe.org/ 

GSAFE promotes public policies by which schools are alleviated from discrimination and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression to support LGBTQ youth and their allies. GSAFE mostly works in Guilford County. The mission of GSAFE includes: 1. Providing for the promotion of a public policy by which schools are alleviated from discrimination and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation and/or gender identity/expression so that all students, faculty, staff and other school community members are made physically and emotionally safe; 2. Providing resources which address the educational, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs and wants of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender youth and their allies; and 3. Providing for the furtherance of the goals of valuing and respecting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons in educational environments.

G.L.A.S.S. Youth Group - Gay & Lesbian Adolescent Support System: PO Box 10137, Greensboro, NC 27404; Phone: (336) 272-6053; Website: http://www.geocities.com/glassgso

GLASS meets every Tuesday night at 7pm. Meetings are facilitated by trained facilitators. Members include local high school and
college students and other youth in the community.

iNSIDEoUT: Email: iNSIDEoUT180@gmail.com (Amy Glaser); Website: http://www.insideout180.org

iNSIDEoUT is a youth-led organization for teens and Gay-Straight-Alliances (GSA) in the Triangle. iNSIDEoUT runs workshops on
queer youth activism, has worked to change school policy, and has get-to-gethers and great parties for LGBTQ and allied youth.

North Carolina Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Resource Guide: created Summer 2007 by Sarah Zlotnik, MSPH, MSW, Project STYLE Intern. Online at: http://www.stylenc.org/images/STYLE_LGBTQ RSRC.pdf (pdf format)

Project STYLE's North Carolina LGBTQ Resource Guide serves the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) communities of North Carolina. The guide intends to be a starting place to connect LGBTQ individuals and allies to area resources. She also hopes the guide will assist health providers and social service professionals in better connecting individuals to LGBTQ resources. Includes many GLBTQ youth resources.

The North Carolina Lambda Youth Network (NCLYN): dedicated to developing young people as leaders and community organizers through leadership training, access to culturally competent supportive services, and a safe space that affirms their identities. A youth-led statewide leadership development network for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and allied (LGBTQA) youth and young adults ages 13 to 25 from the surrounding Durham, Wake, and Orange counties, though others come from more outlying areas. Website: http://www.nclyn.org

OutFit Youth Support Group - Asheville; Phone: (704) 277-7815 or (704) 669-2635

Outright: Triangle Area Gay & Lesbian Youth - Durham; Phone: (919) 286-2396 or (800) 879-2300 GLASS Youth Group - P.O. Box 10137, Greensboro, NC 27404; Phone: (336) 272-6053; Email: email_glass@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.geocities.com/glassgso  

Meets every Tuesday night at 7pm. Meetings are facilitated by trained facilitators. Members include local high school and college students and other youth in the community. Contact by phone or email and let them know what you hope to gain from attending group meetings!

OutWilmington Community Center's Youth OUTReach: 113 Dock Street, Wilmington, NC 28401; Phone: (910) 762-4717; Email: info@outwilmington.com; Website: http://www.outwilmington.com

Youth OUTReach meets every Monday evening at 7pm at the OutWilmington Community Center, this dynamic group of young men and women is a great and energetic group up to age 23. If you are interested in more information, please email: youth@outwilmington.com or visit their myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/bglowy! (Warning: their myspace is private, you will have to message them or be approved as a friend!) The OutWilmington Community Center holds many social and support programs and maintains a community calendar of LGBTQ events in the area. The website is a portal for local events and organizations in Southeastern NC and maintains an extensive listing of resources in the area.

Queer Youth Drop-In Night: Website: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=85927819

Queer Youth Drop In Night happens every Friday from 5-8 pm at Internationalist Books in Chapel Hill (on Franklin Street). LGBTQ youths can come and hang out and make new friends.

Queer Youth Takeover - Triangle. Website: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/queeryouthtakeovernc

Queer Youth Takeover seeks to provide support, space, and queerbling love to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning and allied youth in the NC Triangle area and beyond. We are a diverse group of people committed to actively building community in the most energetic and enjoyable ways possible.

A Safer Place for Youth Network (ASPYN): ASPYN is a program of Triangle Community Works, a coalition of organizations, individuals, and projects serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and allied communities in the Research Triangle Park area (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) of North Carolina. Phone: (919) 821-0055;  Raleigh; Phone: (919) 851-9544; Email: aspyn@tcworks.org; Website: http://www.tcworks.org/aspyn

ASPYN sponsors Coffee House Hang-OUTs, and informal social gatherings for LGBTQ and allied youth ages 13-23 facilitated by ASPYN volunteers. Held 5:30-7:30 pm on the 2nd Saturdays of the month in Durham, and the 4th Saturdays of the month in Raleigh.

SAFE SCHOOLS NC: 855 Long Rd., Lumberton, NC 28358;  Contact person: Katharine Royal; Phone: (910) 608-2016; Email: info@safeschoolsnc.com; Website: http://www.safeschoolsnc.com - Note on 02-28-11 this website was down.

Safe Schools NC is a statewide partnership of organizations and individuals dedicated to eliminating bullying, harassment, and discrimination on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity in North Carolina schools. Safe Schools NC has a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Network.

Time Out Youth: 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205; Phone: (704) 344-8335; Email: info@timeoutyouth.org; Website: http://www.timeoutyouth.org

Time Out Youth provides support, education and advocacy for LGBTQ and questioning youth ages 13-23 in the greater Charlotte area. Ongoing youth programs include weekly support/discussion groups every Monday from 7-9pm and social events. This is a safe place to connect with other LGBTQ youth to share and receive support and information. Our group is led by trained facilitators. Any youth age 13-23 are welcome!  Call for the location. The organization also provides a Speak Out program for community education and crisis housing for emergency situations.

Youth Drop In: at the Bull City Head Quarters, 723 N. Mangum St, Durham; Email: bullcityhq@gmail.com; Websites: http://www.bullcityhq.org & http://www.myspace.com/bchq

Weekly Queer Youth Drop-In Night on Fridays from 6-8pm.

North Dakota (ND)  top

Gay and Proud Youth Group - Bismark; Phone: (701) 255-6120

Ohio (OH)  top

Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC) -Located at 1904 N. High between 15th and 17th, across from OSU's Wexner Center in Columbus, OH; Hours: Monday-Friday, 3pm to 9 pm; Mailing address: P.O. Box 8104, Columbus, OH 43201; Phone: (614) 294-KIDS (5437); Contact form: http://www.kycohio.org/contact.php; Website: http://www.kycohio.org/

• Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC) is for youth ages 12-20 who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT), are questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, identify as queer, or are straight allies. Mission - to work in partnership with young people in Central Ohio to create safe and empowering environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth through advocacy, education and support.

Metro Youth - part of The Lesbian/Gay Community Service Center of Greater Cleveland - 6600 Detroit Avenue; Cleveland, OH 44102; Mailing Address PO Box 6177 Cleveland, OH 44101; Phone: (216) 651-5428 (M-F, Noon-10pm); Peer Support Line: (216) 651-5428 (M-F, Noon-10pm); Fax: (216) 651-6439; Email: info@lgcsc.org; Website: http://www.lgcsc.org/

• Metro Youth Drop-In programming occurs Tuesday-Friday, 3pm - 8pm, for youth ages 14-24 4 nights a week @ Center

Tuesday: Hit the Books (Tutor from 3-8pm)

Wednesday: Classes in Cooking, Finance, Poetry, Art, Etc.

Thursdays: Transgender living support and education

Friday: Dance, Drag and Social Party

• Street Outreach - Tuesdays and Wednesdays we are in local libraries providing information and referral. Each Thursday, from 5:30-10pm, we are in two locations on the near-west side of Cleveland in a mobile clinic providing personal help and a friendly face to help you find stable shelter, answer medical questions, get HIV testing, food, clothing and hygiene kits. If you are in need of help and are ages 14-24 call or come see us. For more information call Maureen at 888-429-8761.
  
  
• Eastside Youth -Live on the far east side? Live out of Cuyahoga County? Ages 14-19, we have a youth drop-in in Chesterland. For more information, contact Christen DuVernay at cduvernay@lgbtcleveland.org.

Rainbow Area Youth - P.O. Box 12415, Toledo, Ohio 43606-0015; Phone: (419) 327-8686; Email: toledoray@toledoray.org; Website: http://www.toledoray.org/ 

Membership in RAY is open to any area teenager between the ages of 13 and 19 regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. Meetings are Wednesday at 6:30pm. For location please call Brenda at 419-255-7510.

Rainbow's End Youth Group - Amherst; Phone: (800) 447-7163

Safe Schools Are For Everyone (SAFE): Cleveland, OH; Phone: (216) 651-5428 (The Lesbian/Gay Community Service Center of Greater Cleveland); Website: http://www.lgcsc.org/

YouthQuest Dayton - PO Box 3721 Dayton, OH 4540; Phone - Hotline: (937) 640-3333; Email: youthquestdayton@hotmail.com; Website: http://www.youthquestdayton.com

Meetings consist of discussions pertinent to YouthQuest members such as current news items and community events; educational programs; or guest speakers. At times, YouthQuest schedules social events in the community away from the regular meeting place. Meetings are held every Wednesday at 7:00 P.M. in the Miami Valley Unitarian Fellowship Church at 2001 Far Hills Avenue (corner of Far Hills Avenue and Grandon Avenue in Oakwood).

Oklahoma (OK)  top

Les/Gay/Bi Youth Support Program - Tulsa; Phone: (918) 582-0061 Openarms Youth Project - 6117 E. 21St. Street,  Suite A Tulsa, OK. 74114; Phone: (918) 838-7104; Fax:: (918) 838-7257 Email: info@openarmsproject.org; Website: http://www.openarmsproject.org 

Brings LGBTQ youth and their friends together to build a peer based community that empowers them to end isolation, create a progressive youth voice; increase well being and self-esteem; and change the communities in which they live. Openarms Youth Project accomplishes this by offering peer based education, advocacy, recreation, information and leadership opportunities. Free HIV testing on Thursdays. 

Youth Open to Sexual Orientation (YOTSO) - a support group for LGBTQ people 13-17 or who are still in high school. YOTSO meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday at St. Stephens United Methodist Church, 1801 W. Brooks, Norman, OK; For more information folks can email YOTSO at yotso@cox.net.

Oregon (OR)  top

COSMYC: Clackamas County Sexual Minority Youth Connection is a program of Vanguard Youth Services funded by the Clackamas County Health Department. COSMYC offers adventure, fun, and support for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and questioning youth 23 and younger,  including weekly meetings, one-on-one support, creative projects, connections to local resources and lots more. For more information (503) 969 0060; E-mail: cosmycyouth@yahoo.com;

Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transgender and Questioning Youth Group - support, information and fun for youth ages 13-18 in Eugene. Regular meetings: Fridays, 4 - 6pm. Phone: (541) 684-3466 

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Youth Group - regular meetings: Mondays 5 - 6:30pm for youth ages 18 - 25. Eugene. Phone: (541) 685-9288; Email; lgbtyouth@yahoo.com  

The Living Room - a drop-in center for GLBTQQ in Clackamas County, Oregon. providing youth directed programming including regualar drop in hours, Summer wellness activities, social events, and leadership & training for GLBTQQ youth ages 14-20 (with additional limited programming for ages 12-14). Weekly drop-in services in Oregon City, every Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Events such as the Annual GSA Summit, Clackamas County Alternative Prom, Summer Wellness Acitvities, and bi-annual GSA Meet-Ups. The Living Room youth leadership and event planning team, Youth Advisory Council, meets every Friday at 4:30 PM at our office in Oregon City. Website: http://www.thelivingroomyouth.org 

Love Makes a Family - an international organization that provides a public voice for lesbian, gay, bi and trans headed families. Your membership supports queer parents and their children, works for safe schools and encourages equal rights for all couples. Phone: (503) 228-3892; Website: http://www.lmfamily.org 

NotStraight NotSure - a confidential support meeting in Medford for youth ages 14-25. Meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. For safety, call Delaine Due for an initial contact. Phone: (541) 301-3059. Email: notstraightnotsure@hotmail.com 

Oregon's Civil Rights Division : Oregon and Washington now have very similar definitions of "sexual orientation," both of which include gender identity and expression. http://www.oregon.gov/BOLI/CRD/about_us.shtml

The Oregon Safe Schools and Communities Coalition (OSSCC): PO Box 230895 Tigard, OR 97281-0895; Phone: 503-260-5792; Email: information@oregonsafeschools.org; Website: http://www.oregonsafeschools.org  

OSSCC seeks to create safe schools and communities where every family can belong, every educator can teach, and every child can learn regardless of actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. The OSSCC believes that all youth deserve to feel safe and welcome in our schools and communities. We seek to achieve this mission in three ways:

1) Education: Education is crucial to ending prejudice and hate-motivated violence. The OSSCC prepares community members from rural, suburban, and urban areas of Oregon to plan, organize, and present educational workshops that address the health and safety needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth and families in their communities.

2) Data Collection: Ongoing data collection and reporting of anti-GLBT harassment and violence is important to raising public awareness and improving the climate for all youth in our schools and communities. The OSSCC seeks to implement a statewide process for youth to report bias, harassment, or violence directed at themselves or others and to receive support and referral when reporting these activities.

3) Support Services: The OSSCC will make support available at the request of youth, parents, or school personnel, to intervene in possible sexual orientation or gender identity bias and harassment situations. We can help youth create a safety plan, meet with school administrators, or provide links to educational or community resources.

Oregon Sexual Minority Youth Network (OSMYN) - Portland; Phone: (503) 243-0538 Out 'N' About Youth - social support group for gay, lesbian and bisexual teens in Corvallis. Information: (541) 754-3906. Outreach to Rural Youth Project - Portland; Phone: (503) 292-3454 Outside In - Transgender/Identity Resource Center - 1132 SW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97205-1703; Phone: (503) 535-3800; (503) 223-6837; Email: info@outsidein.org; Website: http://www.outsidein.org 

Provides peer education, counseling, referrals, street and community-based outreach to youth who may otherwise be disconnected from resources due to their gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, ethnic background, or economic hardships. Outside In is a social service agency dedicated to serving low-income adults and homeless youth. Other urrent programs include a community health clinic, a homeless youth program designed to help homeless youth obtain independent living, and risk education. .

The Washington County Pride Project is part of the Sexual Minority Youth Resource Center (SMYRC), 2100 SE Belmont, OR 97214; Phone: (503).260.5792;  Fax: 503.231.3051; Email: austin@prideproject.org; Website: http://www.prideproject.org  Pride Project brings together Washington County queer and questioning youth to plan and attend monthly social events. Also information, referral and advocacy services in Washington County. Contact person: Austin 503-260-5792. Email: austin@prideproject.org

The Pride Project is a program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, & questioning (LGBTQ) youth 21 and under. Two groups that meet every week, one in Hillsboro, (Wednesdays from 4-5:30) and one in Beaverton (Thursday from 4-5:30). An adult facilitator is present,. People at the group usually range in age from 13-21.Peer counseling, offer individual support, education of people about the needs of LGBTQ youth, supporting school GSA's, work to eliminate homophobia, social events, , and more. 

Sexual Minority Youth Resource Center (SMYRC) - for youth ages 13-17 years old in Multnomah County. Phone: (503) 238-0769 ext. 177;  Address: SMYRC, 2100 SE Belmont, Portland OR 97214; Phone: (503) 872-9664; Fax: (503) 231-3051; Email: info@smyrc.org; Website: http://smyrc.org/

• The SMYRC Resource Center is the place for youth activities ranging from art and yoga, to skill building and leadership development. Youth find several support groups, a full kitchen and library, computers, a pool table, and a fully equipped theatre stage. The youth steering committee, open to anyone 23 and under, governs all activity.

• SMYRC Mental Health Counseling is a free service, available to youth 23 and younger and their families. Counselors experienced in the unique issues facing LGBTQQ youth provide assessment, individual, family, and couples counseling.

• SMYRC Bridge 13, a trained and dedicated group of youth, lead fun and educational workshops on the issues faced by LGBTQQ communities. Suitable for many audiences, its real strength is in training counselors, educators and social service agencies. They're in high demand; schedule well in advance.

• SMYRC's Washington County Pride Project provides information, referral and advocacy services for LGBTQQ youth Washington County, ages 14 to 21. Groups meet in both Hillsboro and in Beaverton.

• SMYRC's Breathe Free Tobacco Prevention Program reduces LGBTQQ tobacco use in Oregon through education and advocacy. They promote safe and smoke free places and events for LGBTQQ people.

Support group for parents and families of gender non-conforming and transgender children and youth age 18 and under in Portland, OR. TransActive Education & Advocacy, the Portland, Oregon-based non-profit, has established a "TransActive Family Outreach and Support" (TFOS) group for parents and family members of gender non-conforming and transgender children and youth age 18 and under. When: The second Monday of every month, beginning September 14, 2009 from 7:00-9:00 PM. Where: Portland, Oregon Metro Area (Location provided upon registration) TFOS will provide an opportunity for parents and family of trans children and youth to share their experiences with one another in a secure and supportive setting. Additionally, TransActive staff, volunteers and guest speakers will cover a variety of educational topics relevant to the lives of these families, their children and youth. TFOS group meetings are free of charge to participating family members and caregivers. Childcare may be available if needed. For more information and to register to attend, call 503-927-7052 or email family@transactiveonline.org; Website: http://www.TransActiveOnline.org

Three support groups for gender non-conforming, gender questioning, genderqueer and trans children and youth ages 4-21 -- in Portland, OR Butterflies and Fireflies and Vanguard support groups are all sponsored by TransActive Education & Advocacy.

Butterflies is a peer group for children ages 4-9. It meets weekly at the TransActive office in SE Portland. Following curriculum adapted by TransActive staff for gender nonconforming children and youth, Butterflies provides a fun environment in which kids can:

• Identify personal strengths and feelings •Increase coping skills and self-confidence
• Share experiences of being gender nonconforming with others
• Find healthy ways to make sense of their experiences and feelings
• Provide a safe place to express feelings with others who share their experience
• Encourage kids to develop friendships and support networks with each other

For more information on Butterflies, contact Wendy Meisenbach at 503-252-3000 or by email: wendy@transactiveonline.org 

Fireflies A peer group for children ages 10-13 meeting weekly at the TransActive office in SE Portland. Following curriculum adapted by TransActive staff for gender nonconforming children and youth, Fireflies provides a fun environment in which kids can:

• Identify personal strengths and feelings •Increase coping skills and self-confidence
• Share experiences of being gender nonconforming with others
• Find healthy ways to make sense of their experiences and feelings
• Provide a safe place to express feelings with others who share their experience •Encourage kids to develop friendships and support networks with each other
• Discuss and find answers to questions related to puberty, growing up, hormones, romantic attractions, school challenges and more.

For more information on Fireflies, contact Shelly Nicol at 503-252-3000 or by email: shelly@transactiveonline.org

Vanguard is a monthly peer support group for people ages 14-21. It meets the 4th Saturday, 11:00-1:00. Meet and socialize with other gender nonconforming, gender questioning, genderqueer and trans youth. Youth friends and allies (same age restrictions) are welcome. Share your stories, gain support from your peers, and learn from the experiences of others. Access resources and information on:

• Coming out to, educating, & gaining the support of friends and family
• Understanding and asserting your legal rights at school
• Accessing respectful and affordable medical and mental health care
• Exploring your options around social and medical transition

More info: 503-252-3000 or info@transactiveonline.org 

Pennsylvania (PA)  top

The Attic Youth Center - 255 South 16^th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102; Phone: (215) 545-4331; Email: info@atticyouthcenter.org; Website: http://www.atticyouthcenter.org/

Started in 1993, the Attic creates opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community, and promotes the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society. The Attic is proud to be Philadelphia's only independent LGBTQ youth center.

Common Roads - P.O. Box 60661; Harrisburg, PA 17106-0661; Phone: (717) 234-0328; Email: info@commonroads.org; Website: http://www.commonroads.org/

The mission of Common Roads is to support and enhance the self-esteem of sexual minority youth and to increase public awareness and understanding of their issues by: providing a safe, confidential, non-judgmental place for youth to obtain support and understanding; combating heterosexism through training and education which provide accurate information on sexual minorities; and encouraging and promoting research and advocacy on behalf of sexual minority youth.

Gay and Lesbian Youth Alliance - Lancaster; Phone: (717) 397-0691 HAVEN - a  GLBT Youth Group hosted by the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lehigh Valley (UUCLV); 424 Center Street, Bethlehem, PA, 18018; Phone: 610-868-2153; Fax: 610-868-1013; Email: havenyouthgroup@hotmail.com; Website: http://www.uuclvpa.org/haven.htm 

A safe, supportive environment, with positive role models, peer support. Sponsors social and recreational activities in addition to weekly meetings open to GLBT youth, their allies & those questioning; 14 to 20 years old . Meetings are Wednesdays 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. 

Mountain Meadow Country Experience - 1315 Spruce Street, Suite 407; Philadelphia, PA 19107-5601; Phone: 1-215-772-1107; Helpline: 1-215-772-1107; Fax: 1-215-772-0313; Email: inquiries@mountainmeadow.org; Website: http://www.mountainmeadow.org

Mountain Meadow is a feminist, sleepover camp for children with lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender parents as well as other non-traditional and progressive families. Mountain Meadow welcomes all children who want to attend, regardless of their family's economic background.

The Main Line Youth Alliance (MYA) - 106 West Lancaster Avenue; PO Box 309; Wayne, PA 19087  (Office space generously provided by Central Baptist Church. MYA has no religious affiliation.); Phone: 610-688-1861 (Leave a message and someone will return your call.); Email: info@myaonline.org; Website: http://www.myaonline.org/educators.php

The Main Line Youth Alliance (MYA) provides gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning and straight youth with social, educational and supportive activities in a confidential, respectful and safe environment. Main Line Youth Alliance programs, unique in Philadelphia's western suburbs, encourage healthy relationships with peers, family and community.  MYA meets every Friday all year long in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Our doors are open to all youth ages 14-22.

Your Turf Gay & Lesbian Youth Group - Lehigh Valley; Phone: (610) 439-8755

Rhode Island (RI)  top

Youth Pride, Inc. - Providence; Phone: (401) 421-5626 Rhode Island Gay/Lesbian Youth (RIGLY) - Providence; Phone: (401) 751-3322

South Carolina (SC)  top

Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA): Address: AFFA, PO Box 22088, Charleston, SC 29413; Phone: (843) 883-0343; Fax: 843-723-3859; Email: info@affa-sc.org; Website: http://www.affa-sc.org

AFFA offers small grants to LGBTQ projects to organizations serving North and/or South Carolina youth. More broadly, AFFA is a social justice organization based in Charleston, SC that works to achieve equality and acceptance for LGBTQ people.

Rainbow Beach - located in The Center Project GLBT Community Center at 307 Highway 15, Myrtle Beach. 24/7 Gay Information/Hotline 340-4031, (SUICIDE HOTLINE:1-866-488-7386 toll free); Email: youth@thecenterproject.com; Website: http://thecenterproject.com/; MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/rainbow_beach

Rainbow Beach is a gay, lesbian bisexual, transgender, questioning, and straight allies youth group. WHEN? Every Saturday from 2-6 p.m.; WHERE? 307 Highway 15 - Myrtle Beach - South Carolina! Near the intersection of 3rd Ave. South & Highway15/Broadway At THE CENTER PROJECT GLBT Community CenterLOOK FOR THE RAINBOW FLAG! WHAT WE DO! If you are high school or college age come to Rainbow Beach every Sat from 2-6 & be part of the fun!

Safe Space - sponsored by WeAre Family, PO Box 30734, Charleston, SC 29417; Phone: (843) 762-3275; Fax: (843) 762-3274; Email: administrator@waf.org;  Website: http://www.waf.org/index2.htm 

A peer support group meets on Tuesdays for gay, lesbian and questioning youth called SafeSpace in the Charleston metropolitan area and an open door and telephone line every day for youth seeking advice or a friendly chat. Contact us for additional information including specific location and time.

Youth Out Loud - Columbia; Phone: (803) 771-7713 Out Youth - Columbia; Phone: (803) 251-0355

South Dakota (SD)  top

The Center West - 3601 Canyon Lake Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701. Phone: (605) 348-3244. Email contact form: http://glbtcommunitycenter.org/contact.html ; Website: http://glbtcommunitycenter.org/

The Center West offers GLBT people, their friends, and family a place of safety and support for Rapid City, the Black Hills, and western South Dakota. Hours are from 1pm until 8pm daily. Wednesday evenings from 6-8 pm are PFLAG drop in hours. There will always be someone from PFLAG available to visit, provide information, to answer questions and provide support. Saturdays from 2pm until 6pm is RALLY Youth drop in time.

Tennessee (TN)  top

Memphis Area Gay Youth (MAGY) - P.O. Box 241852, Memphis, TN 38124; Phone:  (901) 335-MAGY (335-6249); Email: magyinfo@aol.com ; Website: http://www.magyonline.org/

Memphis Area Gay Youth is a peer to peer Support group for Gay/Bi/Trans and Questioning for glbtq youth ages 13-21 in the Memphis Tennessee Area, Including Northern Mississippi, and Eastern Arkansas. Friday meetings doors open from 7-10pm, meeting starts at 8pm, call for location & information.

MNPS: Support Student Safety - Nashville. Website: http://www.supportstudentsafety.com/docs/mnpsform_ind.pdf (pdf format); Email is changemyschool@gmail.com

MNPS: Support Student Safety is a coalition* led by current and former students of the Metropolitan-Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) system that, as of June 2008, successfully persuaded the MNPS School Board to adopt a comprehensive non-discrimination policy protecting all of its students. The project began in June 2007 with the assistance of the LGBT Project of the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee. Members of the MNPS: Support Student Safety coalition have one overriding goal: to ensure that all MNPS students have access to public education that is safe and free from discrimination.  The group is currently working to create a manual to assist other students interested in doing the same within their school district. (*MNPS: Support Student Safety is not affiliated with the Metro Nashville Public School district.)

One-In-Teen Youth Services (OIT) - Meeting address: 109 29th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37203; Mailing address: P. O. Box 40886, Nashville, TN 37204; Telephone 615.321.7288; Toll free telephone: 1-877-ONE-IN-TN (877-663-4686); Email: info@one-in-teen.org; Website: http://www.one-in-teen.org 

OIT serves sexual minority/GLBTQQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young adults from ages 14 to 21. Programs and services include a weekly support group, support for school-based Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), community education, scholarships, and developing alternative social activities for youth such as their annual Gay & Lesbian Alternative Prom.

Safe Spaces Encourage Youth (LGBTQ) Support Group - a community based LBGTQ youth group sponsored by and located at the We Care Child & Family Services office. Address: 111 Ewing St., PO Box 472, Guthrie, KY 42234; Phone: (270) 483-6220; Toll Free: (866) 307-0401; Fax: (270) 483-6221; Contact Form: http://www.wecarefamilies.com/contacts/new; Web: http://www.wecarefamilies.com/services/safespace 

We Care offers a unique foster/mentor program for Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender, Questioning Youth (LBGTQ) to encourage the self realization of orientation and identity, using their strength as an individual. Serving youth from Todd, Logan, Christian and Trigg counties in Kentucky and Montgomery County in Tennessee.

Texas (TX)  top

10% Youth - Dallas; Phone:  (214) 521-5124 Houston Area Teen Coalition for Homosexuals (HATCH) - 701 Richmond Avenue, Houston, TX 77006-5511; Phone: (713) 529-3590; Fax: (713) 526-4367;  E-mail: info@hatchyouth.org; Website: http://www.hatchyouth.org 

GLBTQ adolescents between the ages of 13 and 20 from the greater Houston area, Galveston, Kingwood, Victoria and communities as far as sixty miles from Houston attend HATCH's confidential, twice weekly drop-in programming. HATCH. also sponsors several ongoing activities including an annual prom free to youth ages 13-20; a float in the Houston Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade; a monthly radio show on a local community radio station. and more. 

Out Youth Dallas - Phone:  (214) 521-5342 Out Youth -  909 E. 49 1/2 St.; Austin, TX 78751; Phone: (512) 419-1233; Fax: (512) 419-1232; Email: out@outyouth.org; Website: http://www.outyouth.org

Out Youth provides support and services to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth ages 12 to 19 in Austin and Central Texas. We offer peer support groups, counseling, educational programs, social activities and community outreach.

Pride Project brings together Washington County queer and questioning youth to plan and attend monthly social events. Also information, referral and advocacy services in Washington County. (Austin; Phone: 503-260-5792. ; Email: austin@prideproject.org.)

Respect All Youth (RALLY) - Dallas; Phone: (214) 521-5191 LAMBDA GLBT Community Services - 910 N. Mesa ; El Paso, TX. 79902; Phone: leave a message for Alex, George, Monica, Sammy, or Rob at 915-562-4297; Email: admin@lambda.org; Website: http://www.lambda.org/youth.htm and http://www.lambda.org/youth_group.htm 

21-and-under Youth Group - LAMBDA's 21-and-under support groups provide place for gay youth to come and talk in a safe, friendly, non-sexual, non-threatening, and drug/alcohol-free environment without fear of discrimination and reproach. Youth OUTreach currently offers weekly meetings for young people ages 21-and-under.  Meetings are run by the participants and led by trained adult facilitators.  Each meeting usually consists of an open discussion period, a featured topic-of-the-week or a guest speaker or film, and a socializing period. Everyone is encouraged to participate. 

Texas Safe Schools Coalition & Texas Civil Rights Project: For information on how to volunteer or invite the Safe Schools Program to your school, please contact SafeSchools@TexasCivilRightsProject.org; Website: http://texascivilrightsproject.org/wp/?page_id=1564  

Youth First Texas - Youth First Texas Youth Center - 5415 Maple Avenue, Suite 221, Dallas, TX 75235; Phone: (214) 879-0400; 

Youth support groups for GLBTQ youth ages 14-22. Drop in times, social services, educational opportunities, and recreational activities for GLBTQ youth through age 22. Group interaction and individual support for GLBTQ youth by providing age appropriate activities, programs, and resources that facilitate empowerment and self acceptance. 

Utah (UT)  top

 Utah Gay and Lesbian Youth Group - Salt Lake City; Phone: (801) 539-8800; Email: thecenter@glccu.com

Vermont (VT)  top

Outright Vermont - PO Box 5235; Burlington, VT 05402-5235; Phone: 1-802-865-9677; Helpline: 1-800-452-2428; Email: info@outrightvt.org; Website: http://outrightvt.org/wordpress/    There are 9 other Outright groups in New Hampshire and Maine.

The Mission of Outright is to build safe, healthy, and supportive environments for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth (ages 13-22). Their goal is to make Vermont the safest, most supportive and empowering state for queer youth in America. "Outright's organizing strategy is based on a youth empowerment, social change model that tells us that youth power is an essential element in the fight for equal rights. We describe youth empowerment in two parts - providing the safe space and resources so that youth can do the heavy lifting themselves and adjusting the fundamental power dynamics so that their hard work can achieves results."

Virginia (VA)  top

Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth (ROSMY) - P.O. Box 5542, Richmond, VA 23220; Phone: (804) 644-4800; Youth support line: (804) 644 -4390; Fax: (804) 644-4368; Email: rosmy@rosmy.org; Youth support email: youthsupport@rosmy.org; Website: http://www.rosmy.org  ROSMY offers support groups, a computer lab, a library, and social opportunities for GLBTQ youth. ROSMY also conducts trainings and workshops for adults who work with youth. Programs and services are held on the following schedule for GLBTQ youth ages (14 - 17) and (18 through 20).

 

• Mondays: Orientation Groups -All new youth must attend a four week orientation program to complete our core curriculum

• Mondays:  Youth Engaged in Leadership (YEL) - combined education and training sessions for learning and developing leadership, communication, presentation and personal growth and development skills.

• Tuesdays:  Transition Groups - for youth who have completed orientation and have been referred on.

• First and Third Friday of each month:  Healthy Choices Social Development - combined age social activities and events to promote positive peer social and emotional development through participation in supervised healthy programming.

• A monthly calendar of other events and activities can be found at http://www.rosmy.org/calendar.html

Washington (WA)  top

Safe Schools Coalition: Seattle, WA; Statewide Crisis Phone: 1-877-SAFE-SAFE (1-877-723-3723) 24-hours, answered by crisis workers at King County Sexual Assault Resource Center - ask for a referral to a Safe Schools Coalition specialist. Message Phone: 206-451-SAFE (7233); Crisis Contact web form; Information Email: questions at Safe Schools Coalition; Website: http://www.safeschoolscoalition.org See Washington state youth groups here and  other Washington state resources here.

The Kitsap Safe Schools Network: a partnership of over 10 community groups, agencies, churches, youth groups, parents and individuals working together to protect every child from the torment of bullying, including bullying based on perceived sexual orientation and gender identity. Because nobody should be scared at school ~ straight, gay, whatever.  Resources & information, training & community education. Address: Kitsap Safe Schools Network, c/o KUUF, PO Box 2015, Bremerton WA 98310; Phone: 800-503-7615; Email: info@kitsapsafeschools.org; Website: http://www.kitsapsafeschools.org/

Washington State Resources - broken down by regions on a clickable blackboard map here.

Youth Groups in Washington State - they are on a separate page here.

West Virginia (WV)  top

Youth Gay and Proud - Charleston; Phone: (304) 340-3690

Wisconsin (WI)  top

Gay Straight Alliance for Safe Schools (GSA for Safe Schools or GSAFE) - a public benefit organization committed to safe middle schools and high schools for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender youths and all students. 301 S. Bedford Street #1, Madison, Wisconsin 53703; Phone: 608-661-414; Fax: (608) 661-1360; Email: cindyc@gsaforsafeschools.org; Website: http://www.gsaforsafeschools.org/

• We build up the capacity of GSAs through our ongoing visits to approximately 26 GSAs in south-central Wisconsin, technical support to 78 GSAs in Wisconsin, and our statewide conferences attended primarily by high school students, and some middle school students. Annually GSA for Safe Schools organizes three major conferences for students, including a three-day Leadership Training Institute (LTI).  LTI builds the leadership capacity of LGBT high school students and their allies.  We also play a major role in the annual Day of Silence rally. 

• We work in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to lead workshops on LGBT issues and school safety to school professionals around the state.

• We offer sessions on addressing bullying in general to middle school students through our Bystanders to Allies (B2A) program.  We also offer trainings on B2A to school professionals.

• GSAFE is the only education organization that works with LGBT students in middle schools and high schools in the state of Wisconsin.  And we are also the only Wisconsin organization that trains middle school and high school students to be activists.

Gay Youth Milwaukee (GYM) - Phone: (888) GAY-TEEN (Fri & Sat 7-11p.m.) or (414) 272-TEEN The Gay Youth Wisconsin Hotline -  PO Box 090441; Milwaukee, WI 53209-0441; Email: Gayyouthmil@aol.com; Phone: (414) 272-8336 or (866) GAY-YOUTH. The hotline operates Friday and Saturday evening from 7 until 10pm. Operators may be available at other times as well. 

Wisconsin' first statewide toll-free hotline for and by gay youth. The hotline is a program that is intended to address the HIV prevention needs of LGBTQ youth, and attempts to confront the primary barrier to a young person who is coming out - isolation. By providing safe access for youth top connect with their peers, the hotline can provide that first step in reducing the risk of HIV infection by directly impacting the barrier of fear and isolation. The hotline also provides callers referrals to resources statewide. 

GLBT Partnership - at Harmony Cafe, 124 N. Oneida Street, Appleton, Wisconsin 5491; Phone: (920) 734-2233; Email: glbt_partnership@yahoo.com; Website: http://www.focol.org/harmonycafe/GLBT-ataglance.htm; Myspace:  http://www.myspace.com/glbtpartnership

Support, social & empowerment group for 14-18 year old gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning or allied teens. Every Tuesday evening: 6-8pm at Harmony Cafe. Contact Rebecca or Jesse for more information: (920) 734-2233 or  glbt_partnership@yahoo.com **Calls and group sessions are confidential** 

Project Q - is the Youth Program of the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center. Project Q provides a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth and their straight allies ages 24 and under. 315 West Court Street, First Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53212; Phone: (414) 223-3220; Fax: 414.271.2161; Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Milwaukee-WI/Project-Q/85874990066; MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/projectqmilwaukee 

Hours of Operation: Tuesday drop-in  4:30pm - 9:00pm; Wednesday  FOCUS: young men's group 5:30pm - 7:30pm; Thursday young women's group 5:00pm - 8:00 pm; Friday drop-in  5:00pm - 10:00pm; Saturday drop-in 5:00pm - 9:30pm; appointments can be scheduled Monday - Saturday by calling (414) 223-3220 and speaking with a staff member.

Rainbow Alliance for Youth (RAY) of Wisconsin - Contact: RAY Coordinator: Gary Hollander; Diverse & Resilient, 315 W. Court Street, Suite 202; Milwaukee, WI 53212; Phone: 414-390-0444; Fax: 414-352-2182; Email: director@diverseandresilient.org; Website: http://www.diverseandresilient.org/youth/raygroups.asp

RAY maintains an up-to-date list of GLBTQ youth groups in Wisconsin. The purpose of the development of the Rainbow Alliance for Youth is to address the isolation and invisibility of sexual minority youth; to provide education about social justice and community organizing; to empower youth people as caring, contributing, productive and responsible citizens; to advocate for sexual minority youth in schools, social service agencies, and communities; and to support young people as activists and change agents in their community.

Wyoming (WY)  top

Safe Schools of Wyoming: WY; Email: safeschools@wyoming.com; Phone: 307-733-8349.

AK  ~ AL ~ AR ~ AZ ~ CA ~ CO ~ CT ~ DC ~ DE ~ FL ~ GA ~ HI ~ IA ~ ID ~ IL ~ IN ~ KS ~ KY ~ LA
MA ~ MD ~ ME ~ MI ~ MN ~ MO ~ MS ~ MT ~ NC ~ ND ~ NE ~ NH ~ NJ ~ NM ~ NV ~ NY ~ OH ~ OK ~ OR
PA ~ RI ~ SC ~ SD ~ TN ~ TX ~ UT ~ VA ~ VT ~ WA ~ WI ~ WV ~ WY ~ International ~ Internet-Only

---

International Resources

Note - Safe Schools Coalition wants to list GLBTQ Youth Support Groups and Safe Schools Coalitions in other parts of the world. Please let us know of those you know about. If you are looking for resources, we have some organizations that are international but not youth/school specific listed here: http://www.safeschoolscoalition.org/RG-national_international_orgs.html and they may be able to refer to those.

GALE: The Global Association for LGBT Education: a virtual learning community focusing on education about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) issues. We promote the full inclusion of people who are disadvantaged because of their sexual orientation or sexual identity by identifying, enhancing and sharing educational expertise. The membership of the community is open to anyone actively involved in education about LGBT issues. Email: info@lgbt-education.info; Website: http://www.lgbt-education.info/

Australia:

Rainbow Network Victoria: This Victoria, AU network is for workers with same sex attracted and gender questioning young people, and offers trainings, resources, a speakers bureau, a search for youth groups, and more. Contact: Roz Ward, Rainbow Network Coordinator; Phone:(03) 9285 5131; Email: r.ward@latrobe.edu.au; Website: http://www.rainbownetwork.net.au

Safe Schools Coalition Victoria (SSCV): is a coalition of schools and individuals dedicated to creating safer educational environments where same sex attracted and gender questioning young people are supported, where every family can belong, where every teacher can teach and every student can learn. SSCV provides training, resources and consultancy for every school in Victoria to support sexual diversity and gender diversity, and thereby enhance school performance. Safe Schools Coalition Victoria's role is to tackle and reduce homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism within school communities to allow schools to better meet the needs of their same sex attracted and gender diverse students as well as creating safer environments for all students. They do this through: Membership – encouraging schools to make a commitment to becoming safer schools and to be recognised as delivering best practice in this area; Training – equipping all school staff and school leadership teams with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively address homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism and provide a safer environment; Resources – providing up to date, useful, and accessible resources to schools, staff and students, to support sexual and gender diversity; and Consultancy – providing tailored support and guidance for schools around specific issues or concerns. The project is funded by the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Department of Health. Contact: Roz Ward T: (03) 9285 5131 E: r.ward@latrobe.edu.au; Website: http://www.safeschoolscoalitionvictoria.org.au/

Twenty 10 - Newtown, NSW: "Our mission is to provide and promote opportunities, choices and support to young people (under 26) who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, same-sex attracted and/or gender questioning, their families and communities." Services: case-management, counselling, drop-in, accommodation, groups, projects, information and referrals, rural support, training, research, and more. Address: 45 Bedford Street; Newtown - PO Box 553; Newtown, NSW 2042; Support Line: Tel 02 8594 9555, Outside Sydney: 1800 65 2010; Administration: Tel 02 8594 9550; Fax: 02 8594 9559; Email: info@twenty10.org.au; Website: http://www.twenty10.org.au/

Canada:  top

Alberta

Inside/Out Youth Group The Inside/Out Youth Group is for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, two-spirited and questioning youth. The group meets every Monday from 7 to 9 pm at the Gay and Lesbian Community Services Association. A "before-the-meeting" coffee meeting can be arranged for youth who are coming to the group for the first time. Contact: Address: 206-223 12 Avenue SW, Calgary Alberta, T2R 0G3 Tel: (403) 234-8973

Youth4Youth - Calgary, Alberta, Canada: Youth4Youth is an online community for GLBT youth with scheduled chats, 'the cafe' message boards, resources, and more. Website: http://www.youth4youth.com/

Youth Understanding Youth - Edmonton, Alberta, Canada: Youth Understanding Youth is a facilitated peer discussion/support group for LGBT and questioning youth up to 25 years of age. Upcoming activities and events appear on the group's Web site. Meetings are held every Saturday, from 7 to 9 pm, at the Gay and Lesbian Community Centre of Edmonton, 4th Floor-9916 106 Street, Edmonton (unless otherwise noted). Contact: Tel: (780) 488-3234; email: yuy@shaw.ca; Website: http://members.shaw.ca/yuy

YouthSafe, a great web resource for young GLBT people in Alberta, with info about school groups, community-based groups and  groups for parents and guardians. Also GLBT-friendly counselling and spiritual and health care: http://youthsafe.net/

British Columbia  top

Gab Youth Services (Jenn Horgos or Romi Chandra) 604-684-4901 email: thecentre@intergate.bc.ca   Helpline: 1-800-566-1170, from 7-10   GAB has different drop-ins for queer youth, including Asian Gab, Grrlz Only (all female identified queer youth), and a drop-in for all glbt youth and their allies two days a week. Get in touch with Romi or Jenn for more info. http://www.lgtbcentrevancouver.com/Gab%20Youth.htm (Vancouver)

QMUNITY Gab Youth: A safe place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex, queer, questioning (queer) youth 25 years of age and under and their allies. 1170 Bute Street Vancouver B.C. V6E 1Z6; Phone: 604 684-5307; Website: http://www.qmunity.ca/youth/

QMUNITY Gab Youth provides information, support and referrals to queer youth as well as resources for family, friends, and professionals. Gab also provides weekly drop-ins, one-to-one peer support, leadership training, and special events such as youth dances. Gab also provides PrideSpeaks which are anti-homophobia/transphobia workshops for students K - 12, colleges, universities, teachers, school nurses, counsellors, parents and youth serving agencies.

Trans Youth Drop-in Center: A place to meet other youth who are interested in trans stuff, watch trans movies, make art & ‘zines, eat snacks, get info about local resources, and just generally hang out in a space where you can relax and be yourself... run by trans youth & loved ones. 2007 schedule: Fridays from 6:30-8:30pm. (No meeting on the last Friday of each month) Meals provided. Location: Britannia Community Center, 1661 Napier St. Vancouver in the Al Mattison Lounge. Tel/TTY: 604.734.1514 ext. 1, Email: transyouthdropin@yahoo.ca; Website: http://www.vch.ca/transhealth/youth/index.html; For more info, contact Transgender Health Program.

Vancouver Elementary School Teachers' Association (VESTA) - 2915 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC, Canada V5N 4C8; Phone: 604-873-8378; Fax: 604-873-2652. Contact person: Glen Philip Hansman; Email: glen@vesta.ca; Website: http://www.vesta.ca 

Vancouver School Board  (#39) Antihomophobia & Diversity. Social Responsibility & Diversity Team - 1580 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6J 5K8; Phone: (604) 713-5180; Contact person: Steve Mulligan; Email: pride@vsb.bc.ca Website: http://www.vsb.bc.ca

YouthGlo - a Friday night drop in held at a church youth room in Vernon, BC, Canada. Contact person: Jay (250-503-6654) or youthglo@hotmail.com ; Website: http://www.geocities.com/Youthglo

Ontario  top

HOPE (The Halton Organization for Pride and Education): HOPE offers a number of services including supporting Gay-Straight-Alliances in high schools and other student based group doing equity work on issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. 860 Harrington Court, Unit 217, Burlington Ontario, L7N 3N4; Phone: 905-632-4551; Fax: 905-632-0778; Contact person: j wallace, GSA Co-ordinator; Email: j@juxtaposeconsulting.com; Website: http://www.haltonpride.org

HOPE Youth groups: Oakville/Burlington: 2nd Monday of the month; North Halton: 2nd Tuesday of the month. Call for location (free and confidential): 1-877-860-HOPE.

QAY: Queer Asian Youth -  an initiative of ACAS - Asian Community AIDS Services in Toronto, Canada. Phone: (416) 963-4300 ext. 229; Email: youth@acas.org; Website: http://www.qay.ca/ 

QAY: Queer Asian Youth group builds supportive social spaces for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender, queer, curious, undecided, or questioning East and Southeast Asian youth and their friends. QAY also provides social events, an online message board and a zine and more. 

Rainbow Youth Coalition - c/o PARN, 159 King St., Suite 302, Peterborough, ON, K9J 2R8; Phone: (705) 749-9110 or (1.800) 361-2895; Fax: (705) 749-6310; Email: info@rainbowyouth.ca; Website: http://www.rainbowyouth.ca./

The Rainbow Youth Coalition works with three main goals in mind. These goals relate to making safer spaces for queer youth in the counties of Peterborough, Northumberland, City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton.

• Education: We provide workshops to community groups and organizations on the needs of queer youth. The goal of this work is to increase the inclusiveness of our communities.

• Outreach: By providing settings and events for queer youth to meet and socialize, we hope queer youth will increase their self-esteem and feel more comfortable and capable in their sexual orientation/gender identity.

• Advocacy: We work on behalf of queer youth to encourage the development of safer and inclusive spaces for queer youth.

Supporting Our Youth: a program of Sherbourne Health Center in Toronto, Ontario. http://www.soytoronto.org

Quebec  top

Montreal Youth Coalition Against Homophobia (MYCAH) - 2075 Plessis, Suite 110, Montréal, Québec, H2L 2Y4; Phone: 514.528-8424; Fax: 514.528.9708; Email: info@coalitionjeunesse.org; Website: http://www.coalitionjeunesse.org/ (website is in French and English)

MYCAH promotes the social integration of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans (GLBT) youth and works to prevent the problems associated with homophobia. They offer educators and youth workers (in schools, youth centers, youth and family services, etc.) concrete methods to support youth who are questioning their sexual orientation. We hope to help you create safe environments that support all youth, no matter what their sexual orientation may be, in an inclusive society that is open to differences and to the diversity of sexual orientations.

MYCAH is working on a Secure Space for Youth Project which aims to create a safe space for youths to hang out and meet one another. The space will be modeled to be like a community-center, with couches, games, computers and internet, resources (magazines, books, movies), and more. They seek to complete the the project by January 2009

Yukon  top

BYTE (Bringing Youth Towards Equality) - supported by the PAYY Coalition (Positive Action with Yukon Youth).  Office: 4141A 4th Street, Whitehorse, Yukon; Mailing address: C/O Youth Directorate, Box 2703, Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 2C6; Phone: (867) 667-7975; Fax: (867) 393-6341; Email: bytenow@yukonyouth.com; Website: http://www.yukonyouth.com  

BYTE has a drop-in for youth between the ages of 14 and 25 who identify as gay, lesbian, two-spirited, bisexual or transgendered, and youth questioning their sexuality so they can have a safe place to find support. They meet at The BYTE office (4141 Fourth Ave.) every Monday between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Great Britain and Northern Ireland  top
England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (also known as Ulster), The Isle of Wight, The Orkneys, Shetlands, Hebrides.

UK  top

Queer Youth Network - National LGBT Youth Organisation for gay youth, run by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered young people. gay youth groups, homophobia, support, message boards, coming out, schools, training, radio, resources, conference. "Standing up for our rights. Uniting and Supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Young People all over the United Kingdom." http://www.queeryouth.org.uk/

The Queer Youth Alliance Affiliates - Information on how a group can get involved, link to an online application, and other information on this UK alliance of LGBT youth groups, which currently (April 2008) consists of 74 affiliated groups and organisations (as well (as over 3,500 individual members). - http://www.queeryouth.org.uk/affiliates.htm

Schools Out -  Post: BM Schools Out! National, London, WC1N 3XX; General email: secretary@schools-out.org.uk; Membership enquiries: members@schools-out.org.uk, Holly Roberts 07894 709601; Helpline: Male: Tony Fenwick (01582) 451424; Female: Sue Sanders (020) 7635 0476; Co Chairs: Sue Sanders (020) 7635 0476, Email: sue.sanders03@virgin.net; Paul Patrick (01282) 441601, 0788 3091678, Email: paulchrysalis@yahoo.co.uk; Media enquiries: Nigel Tart (01273) 298299, (07929) 271977, Email: tart@ntlworld.com; Website: http://www.schools-out.org.uk/

Schools Out Aims:

• To provide both a formal and informal support network for all people who want to raise the issue of homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism in education.
• To campaign on lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans issues as they affect education and those in education.
• To research, debate and stimulate curriculum development on LGBT issues.

England  top

Albert Kennedy Trust - helping homeless lesbian and gay teenagers. Website: http://www.akt.org.uk/ Gay And Lesbian Youth In Calderdale (GALYIC) - P.O.Box 8, Todmorden, Lancashire, OL14 5TZ; Telephone: 01422.320099; Mobile/Text: 07765.361590; Email: galyic.group@ntlworld.com; Website: http://www.galyic.org.uk/ 

The GALYIC group meets once a week in Halifax Town Centre on Thursday evening between 7 and 9 pm to support LGBT people aged 25 years and below. The group offers many services including: a safe place to meet other young LGBT's; access to local, regional and national events; one-to-one support; counselling; telephone support; access to other LGBT supportive services (e.g. sexual health, employment, housing, alcohol/drugs counselling); support for coming out; access to training; advocacy (police, school, social services, work); advice; information.

Being A Transperson - from GALYIC, a group in the UK designed to support LGBT people aged 25 years and below. GALYIC, P.O.Box 8, Todmorden, Lancashire, OL14 5TZ; Telephone: 01422.320099; Email: getintouch@galyic.org.uk; Mobile/Text: 07765.361590

Joint Action Against Homophobic Bullying (JAAHB) - JAAHB Project, The intercom Trust, PO Box 285, Exeter, Devon EX1 2YZ; JAAHB Helpline: 01392-20-10-18; Project Co-Ordinator: 01392-67-87-44; Email: bullying@intercomtrust.org.uk; Website:  http://www.intercomtrust.org.uk/goodschools/index.htm 

The JAAHB project (pronounced 'JAB') was set up in 1999 by The intercom Trust http://www.intercomtrust.org.uk/ and seventeen partner agencies. JAAHB is the national lead agency in tackling homophobic bullying in schools. The project is based in Devon, but our help and resources are available across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Young People - from The CSIP Children Young People and Families in the UK. "No civilised country should ignore the plight of the most excluded in society and no one should be shut off from the opportunities, choices and options in life which most of us take for granted.We know that once people are given the opportunity to excel, they often do (Reaching Out 2007)." The site includes: Policy, Evidence Base, Information resources for LGBT young people, Information resources for parents of LGBT young people, Information resources for health workers, and Links to LGBT Youth Projects.
http://www.cypf.csip.org.uk/social-inclusion/social-inclusion/lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-lgbt-young-people.html

Lesbian Information Service: This United Kingdom organization serves youth under 25. It publishes a pamphlet (free on-line) "i think i might be a lesbian... now what do i do?" that lists hotlines and resources all over the United Kingdom. P.O. Box 8, Todmorden, Lancashire, OL14 5TZ, Great Britain; Phone: 01706.817235; Email: lis@lesbianinformationservice.org; Website: http://www.lesbianinformationservice.org

North London Line Youth Project -  North London Line, Block G, Barnsbury Complex, Offord Road N1; Telephone: 0207-607-8346; Mobile: 07960 787371; Email: northlondonline@hotmail.com 

Out For Our Children is a group of London lesbian parents producing books and resources that reflect our children's lives and family experiences. A child needs love, support and acceptance for who they are and where they come from: we believe that inclusive books and other materials are an essential part of that support.
http://www.outforourchildren.co.uk/

Schools Out: an organization aims to provide both a formal and informal support network for all lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transpersons in education. .It works to research, debate and stimulate curriculum development on issues of sexuality; to campaign on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transperson issues as they affect education and those in education. Helplines: male: Tony Fenwick (01582) 451424; female: Sue Sanders (020) 7635 0476; Mailing address: BM Schools Out! National, London, WC1N 3XX; Email: secretary@schools-out.org.uk; Website: http://www.schools-out.org.uk  

Sticks and Stones: Young, gay and living in the sticks? Sticks and Stones is a place you can chat with other young people about how best to deal with anti-gay attitudes and homophobic bullying. It's also a great opportunity to meet lots of other people. Hear gay, lesbian and bisexual celebrities' life stories, too. Go to: http://www.ruralmedia.co.uk/sticks

Scotland  top

LGBT Youth Scotland - runs a range of groups, workshops and support services throughout Scotland. Thsy support the network of LGBT young people and groups around Scotland and their representatives - the LGBT Youth Council. Contact: LGBT Youth Scotland, John Cotton Centre, 10 Sunnyside, Edinburgh EH7 5RA or on 0131 622 2266; LGBT Youthline on 0845 113 0005 (Tues, 7.30-9pm); Text us on the LGBT Textline on 07905 918 515; Email: info@lgbtyouth.org.uk; Website: http://www.lgbtyouth.org.uk/

Stonewall Youth Project, Dunford House, 7 Boroughloch, Edinburgh, EH8 9NL. 0131.556.4040 Tues 7.30-9. 

Israel  top

Hoshen, the Hebrew acronym for "Education & Change", is the education and information center of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender) community in Israel. It is a nationwide, non-profit volunteer organization whose purpose is to fight stereotypes regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. Over 200 volunteers work daily to achieve this goal via a wide array of educational activities: personal meetings, academic lectures, workshops, and seminars. Those are aimed at many different target audiences: high school students and teachers, university students and faculty members, police and border guard corps officers, soldiers, army cadets and officers, medical staff, social workers, and guidance counselors. Hoshen is officially recognized by the Educational Psychological Autority (SHEFI) of the Israeli Ministry of Education. For further information, please contact Irit Zvieli-Efrat at irit@hoshen.org; Website: http://www.hoshen.org/index_en

Nederland  top

GayBoySupport.com: Info & Support Voor Homo-Jongens * for Gay Boys. Doelstelling - Het doel van GayBoySupport is om informatie en steun te bieden aan jongens in de puberteit (12-18 jaar) die homo- of biseksueel zijn of die daar vragen over hebben. Bovendien, om de weerbaarheid van jongens uit de doelgroep te vergroten. English: GayBoySupport's objective is to give information, support and advice to adolescent boys (12-18 years) who are homosexual,  bisexual or questioning in order to help them cope better. Website in Dutch:  http://www.gayboysupport.nl/ Website in English: http://www.gayboysupport.nl/en//GayBoySupport_-_Info_&_support_for_gay_boys/Home.html

New Zealand

Trans People Fact Sheet D: LINKS: Trans youth: from The New Zealand Human Rights Commission. http://www.hrc.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/TGI-Fact-Sheet-D.html

The Republic of Ireland  top

BeLonG To Youth Project: a national youth service for Lesbian Gay Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) young people in Ireland, aged between 14 and 23.
Office hours are Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm. Appointments with youth workers can be made by calling the office, the Youth Work team are unavailable on Friday's. Address: Parliament House, 13 Parliament Street, Dublin 2, Ireland; Phone: 01 670 6223; Fax: 01 670 2619; Email: info@belongto.org; Contact form: http://www.belongto.org/about.aspx?contentid=112; Website: http://www.belongto.org/

BeLonG To: "We believe that LGBT young people need to be respected and cared for on the same basis as all other young people, and that when they are safe and supported in their families, schools & society they will thrive as healthy and equal citizens. To get there we provide direct youth work services to LGBT young people in Dublin and support LGBT youth groups all around the country. These are spaces where LGBT young people can meet each other, get involved in activities and see that their identities and selves are valuable and important. Because we believe that the problems which LGBT young people experience are largely due to negative societal attitudes, we also work to change these attitudes. This is done by training teachers and youth workers, running awareness campaigns in schools and youth services and working with government departments to ensure that LGBT young people are heard so that positive social change occurs."

Foyle Friend Youth Project: for under 25s in Dublin. Phone: 028 7126 3120; Email: youth@foylefriend.org

Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN): works to achieve full equality and inclusion for lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people in Ireland, and protection from all forms of discrimination. Address - GLEN, Tower 1, Fumbally Court, Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland; Phone: +353 1 473 0563; Fax: +353 1 454 6663; Email: admin@glen.ie; Website: http://www.glen.ie/; Education research, resources, and support. Website: http://www.glen.ie/education/resources.html

OutYouth: support and social group for LGBT guys and gals under 23 in Dublin. Call Gay Switchboard Dublin (GSD) for details - Phone: 01-8721055; Email: outyouthdublin@hotmail.com

OutYouth: support and social group for LGBT guys and gals under 23 in Limerick; Call Gay Switchboard Dublin (GSD) for details - Phone: 01-8721055; Email: outyouthdublin@hotmail.com

Over The Rainbow: youth group in Portlaoise; Phone: 086 303 5597; Email: overtherainbowoffice@eircom.net

Rainbow Support Services: Rainbow House, 29 Mallow Street, Limerick; Support project for LGBT people in the mid-west region. Phone: 061 468 611; Email: rainbowlmk@eircom.net

Portugal:  top

A rede ex aequo é uma associação de jovens lésbicas, gays, bissexuais, transgéneros e simpatizantes com idades compreendidas entre os 16 e os 30 anos em Portugal: Website: http://ex-aequo.web.pt ; Email: rede@ex-aequo.web.pt ; Fórum: http://ex-aequo.web.pt/forum; IRC (PTNet): #ex-aequo; Rua S. Lázaro 88, 1150-333 Lisboa, Portugal; Telefone: (+351) 96 878 18 41 

Student brochure, "Perguntas e Respostas sobre Orientação Sexual e Identidade de Género": http://www.ex-aequo.web.pt/arquivo/perguntas.pdf   (pdf format)

Teacher brochure, "Educar Para a Diversidade: Um Guia para Professores sobre Orientação Sexual e Identidade de Género": http://www.ex-aequo.web.pt/arquivo/professores.pdf  (pdf format)

Other Spanish Language resources are listed on our Recursos en Español  page, and these may not necessarily be specifically GLBTQ youth support groups and safe schools coalitions.

---

Internet-Only Resources  top

LGBTQMuslimYouth email discussion group: People age 25 and under who are Muslims and identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, or who may be questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity are welcomed to join. The list is sponsored by Al Fatiha. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LGBTQMuslimYouth

bloomingOUT / WFHB Bloomington Community Radio: a community radio weekly lgbtiq radio/podcast radio show hosted by Helen Harrell & Sean Lemieux, Carol Fischer, producer. bloomingOUT can be heard every Thursday from 6:00-7:00pm EST on 91.3FM - 98.1FM - 100.7FM - 106.3FM or on the web. Address: 108 W. 4th St., Bloomington, IN 47402; Cell: 812-325-7870; Email: bloomingout@wfhb.org; To download the latest show or podcast - website: http://wfhb.org/bloomingout/

Matthews Place - Since Matthew Shepard's death and the creation of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, Judy Shepard has spent countless hours meeting young people across the country.  Many of these young people have reached out to her to share their stories about the pain and hurt of being teased, harassed, and mistreated by their peers, parents, and other community members for being who they are. Created to offer LGBTQ and allied youth with safe, informative, interactive and cutting edge resources, MatthewsPlace.com will act as a hub for youth-focused organizations to funnel information to those who need it most. MatthewsPlace.com will provide LGBTQ and allied youth with a site that incorporates cutting-edge technology with up-to-date information and resources about how to live a healthy, productive, & hate-free life. 

Online Christian Gay Youth Alliance: A new youth organization/group is in the preliminary stages in the central valley of California called the Christian Gay Youth Alliance or the CGYA; its based out of the central valley and currently is online only. We intend to turn it in to a face to face group as time goes on. Please take a look at the websites: http://www.myspace.com/gaychristianyouth and http://groups.yahoo.com/group/christianyouthalliance/

Youth Guardian Services - YGS is a youth-run non-profit organization that provides three YOUTH email support lists for GLBTQ youth (ages 13-17, 17-21 & 21-25); the STR8 list for straight and questioning youth with GLBTQ friends or family members; and the Living Color list - a discussion and support list for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth between the ages of 13 and 25 who are affected by eating disorders and/or eating issues. Website: http://www.youth-guard.org/

home ~ site map ~ national/international organizations

DHTML Menu by Milonic