Young people
thrive when they
feel a sense of
belonging.
Resources for LGBTQ+ youth,
families and allies
After more than 160 years serving youth, we know that a sense of belonging is everything, and that’s especially true for LGBTQ+ kids and teens. Clubs work to offer a safe, positive environment for youth, staff and families of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. In physically and emotionally safe places, young people can be themselves, ignite their interests and develop skills to be successful in school, the workforce and in life.
4 in 10 LGBTQ+ youth (42%) say the community in which they live is not accepting of LGBTQ+ people.
59% of LGBTQ+ students felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation.
One accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt by 40% in LGBTQ+ youth.
“My Club creates an environment where everyone is welcome. …[When] I started sharing that I was gay, the Club staff made me feel safe, supported and welcome. And for the first time, it was like, ‘OK, it’s OK. I can be myself now.’”
– Angel, Boys & Girls Club alum
Resources
Letting kids know that we see them, and we accept them for whoever they are.
Guidance for positive relationships between parents/caregivers and LGBTQ+ youth.
Tips to help parents and teens navigate conversations about gender identity.
News & Stories
Angel was worried the Club would be another place to be bullied. It turned out to be his biggest ally.
This Club shares how their commitment to inclusion because a cities-wide Pride March.
Kate H. shares her experience as a trans female and how acceptance means everything.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We believe every kid has what it takes. The mission and core beliefs of Boys & Girls Clubs fuel our commitment to promoting safe, positive and inclusive environments for all. Boys & Girls Clubs of America supports all youth and teens – of every race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, and religion – in reaching their full potential.
LGBTQ+ Inclusion Partners
Boys & Girls Clubs of America is proud to partner with the following organizations to provide resources to our Clubs, our members and their families.
GLSEN believes that every student has the right to a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education.
Find a wealth of resources for supporting LGBTQ youth at home, in school and in the community.
The Safe Zone Project Is a Free Online Resource for Powerful, Effective LGBTQ Awareness and Ally Training Workshops.
The leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
