Supportive resources that advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth
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EmailAccess to support is crucial. LGBTQIA+ youth who engage with affirming environments that recognize their gender identity and sexual orientation experience reduced rates of suicide.
4-H is committed to recognizing the potential of young people. We acknowledge that every child possesses unique strengths and a genuine capacity to effect positive change in their surroundings. For over a century, we have embraced youth from diverse beliefs and backgrounds, empowering them to articulate their identities and contribute to the enhancement of their lives and communities. Currently, we persist in our vital mission to foster a secure space where young people can authentically express themselves.
Research shows that access to this kind of support is crucial. According to The Trevor Project National Survey, LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual and additional gender and sexual identities) youth who engaged with affirming environments that recognized their gender identity and sexual orientation experienced reduced rates of suicide attempts. Additionally, many young individuals indicated that despite facing challenges, they discovered resilience and happiness through avenues such as representation in media, education about LGBTQIA+ history and therapeutic support.
Knowing this, it is important to focus on the essential and ongoing efforts, as well as available opportunities, that can guide us in our collective endeavor to establish an organization and communities that advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth.
Helpful organizations and resources
The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project offers several resources for members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, including self-care guides, educational articles for parents and supportive adults, and other information about LGBTQIA+ young people facing homelessness, creating safe spaces in schools and developing healthy relationships.
It Gets Better Project. The It Gets Better Project works to remind LGBTQIA+ youth that there is hope and that no matter how things might be now, it does get better. The site offers resources and stories from people all over the world to encourage, uplift and empower young people and to let them know that they are not alone.
Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN): Student Action. GLSEN is an organization that offers information designed to help students take action and initiate changes in their schools and communities.
True Colors United. True Colors United focuses on ending homelessness among LGBTQIA+ youth. In addition to providing learning resources and advocacy, they also provide fundraising guides for those interested in raising money to support LGBTQIA+ youth.
PFLAG. PFLAG was the first organization devoted to helping parents, families and allies support LGBTQIA+ people. Today, the organization supports a network of more than 400 local chapters found throughout the U.S. Through their site, you can locate or even start a local chapter of the support organization.
For some LGBTQIA+ youth, their support system may not include family and friends, as a result of rejection, discrimination or a lack of understanding. Nevertheless, the involvement of 4-H staff and volunteers can significantly influence the lives of these individuals. It is our responsibility to serve as a bridge, connecting them with resources that affirm their identities and promote their well-being.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. To find out how to get involved as a youth participant or an adult volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office.
