7 Ways to Support LGBTQ+ Youth

​Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of LGBTQ youth? There are many ways to make a positive impact. In our latest blog post, we dive into the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ youth and share 7 different ways you can get involved.

​As a society, we've made great strides in promoting and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals!

However, there is still much work to be done, especially when it comes to affirming the rights of LGBTQ+ youth. In 2022, legislators nationwide introduced 315 "anti-equality" bills nationwide, with more than a few from Ohio. Focused on denying the freedom, safety, and dignity of LGBTQ+ people - in particular transgender/gender non-conforming youth, these bills used dangerous, inflammatory, and false anti-LGBTQIA rhetoric.

Even though many of the bills introduced during the 2022-2023 session failed, +120 bills restricting LGBTQ+ have already been introduced since the start of the 2023 legislative session. 

Since the dawn of time, LGBTQ+ folks have been a central part of our communities. At KYC, we believe that all young people deserve to feel safe, supported, and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

We also believe that it's important for parents, caregivers, and youth-facing professionals to affirm their LGBTQ+ children and provide them with the support and resources they need to thrive. This includes educating themselves about LGBTQ+ issues, advocating for their rights, and creating a safe and accepting environment. 

​LGBTQ+ youth in Ohio still face unique challenges, including bullying, discrimination, and rejection from their families and communities. At KYC, we believe that all young people deserve to feel safe, supported, and valued, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

This article shows 7 ways to support LGBTQIA+ youth and Kaleidoscope Youth Center. At KYC, we offer a variety of programs and events for LGBTQ+ youth to connect and thrive. From our Genderscope discussion and activity group for trans and nonbinary youth to our Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, there's something for everyone. We also offer resources and support for parents and guardians of LGBTQ+ youth, including our Parents & Guardians of LGBTQIA+ Youth Group, which provides a space for peer support and discussion.

​Join our community. Support LGBTQ+ futures. 

1. BECOME A DONOR

Donating to Kaleidoscope Youth Center is an important way to support LGBTQIA+ youth. As the oldest and longest serving LGBTQ+ youth organization in Ohio, listening to youth voices is in our DNA. Since 1994, we have used whatever space, in-person or virtual, to build up and affirm the needs of Ohio's LGBTQIA+ young people. In 2022, our Drop-In Center experienced over 5,000 total visits by LGBTQ+ young people under the age 24.

In 2022, Our Gender Affirmation Project provided 205 free gender-affirming garments for young people up to age 24. By providing resources and support, creating a safe and affirming space, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, KYC is making a significant difference in the lives of some of society's most vulnerable. Your contributions help to ensure LGBTQIA+ youth have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. 

Donate to KYC

2. SHOP OUR STORE
​Online shopping has become a part of our daily lives, offering convenience and accessibility. But what if we told you that you could make a difference while shopping online? Now you can with the KYC Online Store! From t-shirts to tote bags, our store has something for everyone. Not only will you be getting some cool swag, but you'll also be supporting our mission to create safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth. ​

The classics never go out of style. Shop the Kaleidoscope Youth Center Classics Collection. Available now!

So what are you waiting for? 100% of proceeds support Kaleidoscope Youth Center and LGBTQIA+ youth. Head over to our online store and start shopping today! Don't forget to share with your friends and family to spread the word.

Tags: #KYC #supportLGBTQ #onlineStore #shopforacause

Shop Our Store!

​3. SHOP AMAZON WISHLIST

Not only is shopping from the KYC Amazon Wishlist convenient and easy, but it's also a great way to ensure that your donation is tailored to the needs of queer and trans young adults! Plus, you can rest assured knowing that your contribution is making a tangible impact on someone's life.

By purchasing items from  our Amazon Wishlist, you can help provide the necessary resources and supplies LGBTQ+ youth need - right now. With just a few clicks, you can help support the lives of Ohio's LGBTQIA+ young people. Items on the list are based on youth feedback, and support needs. 

Why not take a moment to browse a nonprofit's Amazon Wish List and see how you can help? LGBTQIA+ youth deserve the world. Let them know that there is a community behind them. Your support can go a long way in helping them achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.

Shop Our Wishlist

4. HOST A FUNDRAISER

Fundraising is a fantastic way to bring your community together and support a good cause! Not only can it be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also bring people together and encourage them to support a common goal. From Drag Brunches, Garden Parties, Bake Sales, Art Shows to Wrestling Matches, and Whiskey Tastings, there are tons of great ways to fundraise.

Want to host a community fundraiser ​or event benefiting KYC? Check out our Community Fundraising Guide!

LOOKING FOR EXAMPLES?

​-Drag Brunch // Landgrant Brewing
-'Done Hiding:' Columbus LGBTQ-owned bakery gives back, celebrates identity | NBC4 | 
-Pride 2022 March & Fundraiser Benefitting Kaleidoscope Youth Center | Small Biz Cares
-Easton Town Center 
-This Group is Doing Amazing Things for LGBTQ+ youth ​| Scary Mommy

Check out Community Fundraising Guide

5. BECOME A VOLUNTEER 
​​
Are you looking for a way to make a positive impact in the lives of young people? Consider volunteering at Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC). 

At KYC, our volunteers are superheroes. Whether supporting our drop-in center programming, youth-centric events, or participating in a Day of Service as a group, volunteering at KYC is a rewarding experience that allows you to make a difference in the lives of young people. 

Thanks to volunteer support, Kaleidoscope Youth Center was able to reach 5,336 visits to the Drop-In Center in 2022!   

Join us in creating a world where all young people can live openly, authentically, and without fear of discrimination or violence. Volunteer at KYC today.

*Completion of a background check + attendance to one training session is required. A time commitment of a minimum of 2-hours, weekly, for at least six months are preferred!

Interested in volunteering? More details and volunteer requirements can be found here

Volunteer

6. JOIN THE UNITY CIRCLE
​Supporting KYC is a great way to give back to the next generation of LGBTQ+ voices. While one-time donations are always appreciated, there are many other ways to make a difference. Consider joining The Unity Circle, our recurring donor program.

Consistent financial support makes it easier to plan for future projects and initiatives and make a longtime positive impact. While we're most known for our drop-in center, its through consistent financial support that we've grown to provide both mental and behavioral health, and case management  services for young LGBTQ+ people under 24 - all at no charge.

A gift of $100/month provides the youth in our Community-Based Wellness housing and wellness program with an entire week's worth of food and hygiene products. 

For more information, including all the potential amazing swag, check out the Unity Circle homepage!

Join the Unity Circle!

7. SUBSCRIBE FOR ALERTS

Keeping track of everything can be a challenge at times. With our RSS Feed, its as simple as the click of a button. 

Subscribing to a RSS feed is a simple way to stay informed about their activities, campaigns, and initiatives. Here are some of the benefits of subscribing to KYC’s RSS feed:

Stay up-to-date with the latest news By subscribing to a nonprofit's RSS feed, you will receive regular updates about our latest news and events. This can help you stay informed about our activities and campaigns, and learn more about the impact we are having in the community.

Learn about new initiatives and programs At KYC, we are constantly working to ensure our initiatives and programs are guided by the needs LGBTQ+ young. By subscribing to our RSS feed, you can be among the first to find out how you can get involved and support.

Get involved and take action RSS feeds are a great way to share information about upcoming events, campaigns, and advocacy opportunities. By subscribing to our feed, you can learn about these opportunities to take action and how you can support our work. Whether it's signing a petition, attending a rally or making a donation, we all have a role in supporting LGBTQ+ futures!

Save time and stay organized Subscribing to a RSS feed can help you save time and stay organized. Instead of having to navigate through a website or follow them on social media, you can receive all the latest news and updates in one place. This can help you stay on top of their activities and campaigns, without having to search for information or worry about missing out on important updates.

Subscribing to a RSS feed is a simple yet powerful way to stay informed about Kaleidoscope Youth Center’s activities, learn about new initiatives and programs, get involved and take action, and save time and stay organized. So why not subscribe today and start making a difference in your community?

RSS Feed

CONCLUSION

Kaleidoscope Youth Center provides vital support and resources to LGBTQ+ youth in our community. Our work is more important now than ever before, with many young people facing unprecedented challenges and obstacles. By donating to Kaleidoscope, you can make a real difference in the lives of these youth, helping them to feel seen, heard, and valued. Your donation will go towards creating safe spaces, providing mentorship and counseling, and empowering youth to be their best selves. Please consider making a donation today and supporting the important work of Kaleidoscope Youth Center.

Together, we can build a brighter future for LGBTQ+ youth in our community!

Isiah Harris

Communications and Development Manager at Kaleidoscope Youth Center.