LGBTQ+ Youth Resources Across the Country: Finding Support
For LGBTQ+ youth, finding acceptance and support can be a crucial part of navigating life’s challenges. Whether it’s bullying, family rejection, or feelings of isolation, having access to affirming resources can make all the difference. In a time where discrimination still exists, it’s essential to know where to find allies and safe spaces, no matter where you live. Below, we’ve compiled a list of vital LGBTQ+ resources available across the country, so you can find the help you need no matter what city you’re in.
Why LGBTQ+ Youth Resources Matter
LGBTQ+ youth often face unique challenges, from family rejection to mental health struggles, and these resources play a pivotal role in providing safe and affirming spaces. Knowing that there are organizations across the country dedicated to offering support can reduce feelings of isolation and provide access to life-saving resources. Whether you are in a big city or a small town, there are LGBTQ+ resources out there, ready to help you on your journey.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, don’t hesitate to reach out to any of the resources listed below. You’re never alone, and your identity deserves respect and love.
1. The Trevor Project (National)
At the forefront of LGBTQ+ youth support is The Trevor Project. They offer a 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention service for LGBTQ+ youth, available via phone, chat, and text. With trained counselors ready to help, The Trevor Project has saved countless lives by providing affirming support during moments of crisis. Their resources also extend to educational materials for allies and communities.
• Phone: 1-866-488-7386
• Text: Text START to 678-678
• Website: thetrevorproject.org
2. New York City: The Center
New York City’s LGBTQ+ Community Center offers programs specifically for youth, such as leadership training, counseling, and health services. Their youth program creates a safe space where LGBTQ+ teens can gather, build friendships, and find mentorship.
• Website: gaycenter.org
3. Los Angeles: The Los Angeles LGBT Center
The LA LGBT Center is one of the largest LGBTQ+ organizations in the world and offers an array of services, including mental health resources, housing support for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, and education programs. Their Youth Services department ensures that every LGBTQ+ teen has a safe space to turn to.
• Website: lalgbtcenter.org
4. Chicago: Howard Brown Health
Howard Brown Health provides a wide range of health services, including LGBTQ+ youth programs that focus on medical care, mental health support, and social services. They are committed to offering affirming, comprehensive healthcare to underserved LGBTQ+ communities in Chicago.
• Website: howardbrown.org
5. Philadelphia: The Attic Youth Center
As the only organization in Philadelphia exclusively serving LGBTQ+ youth, The Attic Youth Center offers life skills workshops, counseling, and support groups to LGBTQ+ youth from all walks of life. Their goal is to create a safe and affirming environment where young people can thrive.
• Website: atticyouthcenter.org
6. Atlanta: Lost-n-Found Youth
Atlanta’s Lost-n-Found Youth specializes in helping homeless LGBTQ+ teens find housing and support services. With the goal of ending LGBTQ+ youth homelessness, they provide critical resources, including job training, housing assistance, and crisis intervention.
• Website: lnfy.org
7. San Francisco: LYRIC
Located in the heart of the Castro District, LYRIC provides education, career training, and support groups to LGBTQ+ youth in San Francisco. Their work focuses on empowering youth through community building and social justice initiatives.
• Website: lyric.org
8. Boston: BAGLY (Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth)
BAGLY is a youth-led, adult-supported organization that has been empowering LGBTQ+ youth in Boston for over 40 years. Their leadership programs, health services, and support groups create a vibrant space for LGBTQ+ teens to feel connected and safe.
• Website: bagly.org
9. Dallas: Resource Center Dallas
Resource Center offers a variety of services for LGBTQ+ youth in Dallas, including mental health counseling, social support groups, and education on LGBTQ+ issues. Their services provide a lifeline to youth seeking affirmation and community in the South.
• Website: myresourcecenter.org
10. Washington, D.C.: SMYAL (Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders)
SMYAL provides leadership development and advocacy training for LGBTQ+ youth in Washington, D.C. Their work focuses on building the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders while offering safe spaces for mentorship and community engagement.
• Website: smyal.org
11. Portland, ME: OUT Maine
OUT Maine is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth across the entire state of Maine, especially in rural areas where resources may be more limited. They offer youth retreats, leadership training, and mental health services, ensuring that LGBTQ+ teens in smaller towns feel connected and supported.
• Website: outmaine.org
12. Tulsa, OK: Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq)
Located in Tulsa, Oklahomans for Equality operates the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, providing counseling services, peer groups, and community events for LGBTQ+ youth. They are one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ organizations in the state, helping youth in smaller towns find connection and support.
• Website: okeq.org
13. Burlington, VT: Outright Vermont
Outright Vermont offers resources like social events, leadership development, and a youth-driven peer support network for LGBTQ+ teens across the state. They work to provide affirming environments in schools and communities, ensuring that rural youth in Vermont have access to safe spaces.
• Website: outrightvt.org
14. Albuquerque, NM: New Mexico LGBTQ Centers
Serving smaller communities throughout New Mexico, the New Mexico LGBTQ Centers provide support groups, counseling, and youth-focused events. Their outreach includes rural and underserved areas, making sure LGBTQ+ youth in smaller towns can access the help they need.
• Website: nmlgbtqcenters.org
15. Boise, ID: The Community Center
Boise’s Community Center offers a wide array of LGBTQ+ resources, including youth programs that focus on leadership, advocacy, and social support. They work to provide safe spaces for teens in Idaho’s more rural areas, ensuring that no LGBTQ+ youth feels left behind.
• Website: thecommunitycenter.org
16. Lexington, KY: Pride Community Services Organization (PCSO)
Serving central Kentucky, PCSO offers resources like youth support groups, community events, and educational workshops. Their work focuses on empowering LGBTQ+ youth in smaller cities and rural areas, giving them a community to rely on.
• Website: pcsoky.org
17. Richmond, VA: Side by Side
Side by Side supports LGBTQ+ youth in the Richmond area through support groups, mental health services, and community events. Their outreach extends into rural parts of Virginia, providing affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ teens can gather, learn, and grow.
• Website: sidebysideva.org
18. Louisville, KY: Louisville Youth Group
Louisville Youth Group is a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth, providing them with leadership programs, social events, and resources for personal development. They serve not only Louisville but also the surrounding smaller towns in Kentucky.
• Website: louisvilleyouthgroup.org
19. Fort Collins, CO: SPLASH Youth of Northern Colorado
SPLASH Youth provides LGBTQ+ youth support in Fort Collins and across Northern Colorado. Their services include support groups, social events, and leadership training, helping LGBTQ+ teens in smaller towns stay connected to their community.
• Website: splashnoco.org
20. Madison, WI: GSAFE
GSAFE works to create safe and affirming schools for LGBTQ+ youth throughout Wisconsin, with a focus on leadership development and anti-bullying initiatives. They offer resources and workshops for students and educators alike, ensuring that LGBTQ+ teens in rural areas have access to affirming environments.
• Website: gsafewi.org
21. Asheville, NC: Youth OUTright
Youth OUTright provides advocacy, support, and leadership programs for LGBTQ+ youth in Western North Carolina, particularly in smaller mountain towns. Their services include support groups, educational workshops, and mental health resources, helping LGBTQ+ teens in rural areas feel connected.
• Website: youthoutright.org
22. Grand Rapids, MI: Grand Rapids Pride Center
The Grand Rapids Pride Center serves LGBTQ+ youth across Western Michigan with peer-led support groups, youth programs, and social events. They focus on providing a safe space for teens in more conservative or rural parts of the state, ensuring access to supportive resources.
• Website: grpride.org
23. Jackson, MS: The OUTreach Center
The OUTreach Center in Jackson offers support services, educational workshops, and a safe community space for LGBTQ+ youth in Mississippi. They work to create a welcoming environment for teens who may face additional barriers due to living in smaller Southern towns.
• Website: theoutreachcenter.org
24. Fargo, ND: LGBTQ+ Resource Center at North Dakota State University
While based at NDSU, the LGBTQ+ Resource Center serves as a hub for LGBTQ+ youth and allies throughout Fargo and the surrounding region. They offer peer support groups, educational events, and a safe space for teens who may not have other LGBTQ+ resources nearby.
• Website: ndsu.edu/lgbtq
25. Des Moines, IA: Iowa Safe Schools
Iowa Safe Schools is a statewide organization that provides advocacy, support, and educational resources for LGBTQ+ youth in schools across Iowa, including rural communities. Their mission is to ensure every LGBTQ+ student feels safe, supported, and affirmed.
• Website: iowasafeschools.org
26. Rochester, NY: Out Alliance
Out Alliance, based in Rochester, NY, offers youth support services that include counseling, social groups, and leadership training. They are dedicated to ensuring LGBTQ+ youth in upstate New York have access to affirming spaces and resources.
• Website: outalliance.org
27. Anchorage, AK: Identity, Inc.
Identity, Inc. provides resources for LGBTQ+ youth in Anchorage and throughout Alaska. They offer support groups, health services, and educational programs to help LGBTQ+ teens feel safe and accepted, even in more remote areas.
• Website: identityalaska.org
28. Little Rock, AR: Lucie’s Place
Lucie’s Place is a vital resource for LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness in Little Rock, Arkansas. They offer housing, job training, and support services to ensure LGBTQ+ teens have a safe and supportive environment to rebuild their lives.
• Website: luciesplace.org
29. Kansas City, MO: KC Passages
KC Passages provides LGBTQ+ youth in Kansas City with a safe space for socialization, support groups, and educational programming. They are dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ teens and helping them find community in the Midwest.
• Website: kccare.org/kc-passages
30. Birmingham, AL: Magic City Acceptance Center
Located in Birmingham, the Magic City Acceptance Center offers LGBTQ+ youth services that include counseling, social events, and leadership programs. They work to create a supportive and inclusive environment for teens in Alabama, especially in smaller, more rural communities.
• Website: mcacbham.org