Because of societal ostracism, gay, lesbian, transgendered, and bisexual youth have been bypassed by mainstream prevention programs.  This group of young people, an estimated 10 percent of the total youth population, face:

• Increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse, low self-esteem, suicide, homelessness, physical and mental abuse, and HIV/AIDS transmission;
• Discrimination, scorn, ridicule, hatred, verbal abuse,condemnation, and misunderstanding by peers and adults;
• The resulting violence and physical abuse.

What guidelines govern the support group?

• Anyone between the ages of 13 and 20, regardless of ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or physical ability.
• All activities are supervised and educationally focused.
• Drugs, alcohol, weapons, or any illegal materials are prohibited.
• All personal information shared at meetings is confidential.  However, we are required by law to report physical or sexual abuse, or intent to harm self or others.
• Youth Services will limit the participation of those who are disruptive to the goals of the group.

This program offers three additional dimensions to the the LGBTQ program other than just a support group (i.e. healthy gay-friendly activities, fostering healthy choices, a gay-straight alliance model and more).  The focus is on healthy activities in the community that not only include LGBTQ youth, but their heterosexual friends and allies as well.

For information about the support group and "Out and About", call 582.0061 or click here.