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Counselor to support LGBTQIA+ individuals

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Welcome

The Center for Authentic Autonomous Relationships and Existence (CAARE) Counseling and Consultation, LLC opened its doors officially February 2020, however, it has been the brain-child of its founder, Cameron Mazzeo, since his young adulthood. Finding little help grappling with his own sexuality, gender identity, and alternative relationships was the seed for a mental health agency dedicated to celebrating individuals and families outside of the monogamous, vanilla, cisgender, heteronormative story that so often is the sole narrative of our society and media. While our beginning is certainly a slow and humble one, a hope of growing into larger organization exists.

About Me

Cameron has been an out and proud advocate, educator, and mentor for the LGBTQ+ Community for the last 10 years. He has spoken before the NJ State Senate on behalf of the Babs Siperstein Law, presented for numerous mental health and substance abuse organizations about LGBTQ needs and disparities, has been a board member of the local PFLAG Chapter for the last few years, And part of the steering committee for the LGBTQ Older Adult Project through Monmouth University. Cameron has been a social worker since 2011, and finally obtained his NJ- LCSW in 2018 and MA-LICSW 2021. By then, he was already a fairly well known LGBTQ specialist in Monmouth County. Cameron's practice continued to expand to include non-monogamous and kink relationships. He uses a variety evidence based treatment modalities simultaneously to address the complex needs of his clients. His practices is guided by his values and beliefs in equity, body integrity, and harm reduction.

Cameron Mazzeo

﻿ MSW / LCSW/ LICSW

Our Mission

Our Mission is to improve the mental health and well-being for all individuals within the community.

Our Vision

Our Vision is for all unique individuals feel their life choices respected and valued.

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Welcome The Center for Authentic Autonomous Relationships and Existence (CAARE) Counseling and Consultation, LLC opened its doors officially February 2020, however, it has been the brain-child of its founder, Cameron Mazzeo, since his young adulthood.

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THIS INFORMATION IS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SANFRANCISCO

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The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

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Welcome to the Family Acceptance Project®

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The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

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Equality Federation Reacts to Supreme Court Decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis

Today, Equality Federation responded to the Supreme Court's decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis, a case about whether a business that is open to the public can be granted an unprecedented free speech exemption from state nondiscrimination law in order to turn away customers they would rather not serve. In a 6-3 decision, the Court ruled for 303 Creative in a highly fact-specific decision authorizing a narrow exception to state nondiscrimination laws for a website developer.

Join Our Team in Supporting Our Members This Give OUT Day

After you donate to Equality Federation, please consider matching that gift with a donation to your closest participating state partner and a BIPOC-focused organization this Give Out Day.

Paid Health Leave and its benefits for everyone

Paid Health Leave for everyone would provide access to taking care of oneself without jeopardizing their employment. This is a part of public health, and we must invest in it to keep everyone safe.

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We accelerate advocacy in the LGBTQ community | Equality Federation

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Equality Federation is an advocacy accelerator rooted in social justice, building power in our network of state-based lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) advocacy organizations.

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Powerful #Pride @RustinCenter
as meaningful as it was fabulous, as inspirational as it was exponential
Thanx to the thousands who marched in solidarity & danced in celebration

"WE need in every community a group of angelic troublemakers"

Bayard Rustin
Planned the March
Brought non-violence to the Movement
Inspired the Freedom Riders
Spoke Truth to Power
Lost to history, edited out of the books written, excised from the stories told
because of who he loved
Who he was
A queer Black man embracing his identity in all its beautiful intersectionality, amplifying the inclusivity of his very being, sewing his square into the ancestral quilt, into the interwoven tapestry of our shared communities
Our sacrosanct mission here at the
Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice
To make sure no one else ever gets left behind again, not on a large or small scale, not to a leader of a movement, a worker in an office, a student in a classroom, nor to any individual in any community.

""I do not think as a member of Congress,
I have been in any space that is more loving & caring than this space right here.
I'm so glad you are here ... "

" "

- Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

Princeton's 2nd Pride Parade & After-Party was everything our community needed & deserved it to be, as meaningful as it was fabulous & as inspirational as it was exponential

Thanx to the thousands who came out & marched, sashayed, & rolled up the beautiful Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood & then were all at once empowered & entertained at the wonderful After-Party!

Words cannot express the ever-present LOVE we all shared so please enjoy just a small samplin' of this extraordinary day...

¡DESCANSA EN PODER EMILIO!

WE BELIEVE BIRTH JUSTICE EXISTS WHEN WOMEN & TRANSFOLX ARE EMPOWERED DURING PREGNANCY, LABOR, CHILDBIRTH & POSTPARTUM TO MAKE AUTONOMOUS HEALTHY DECISIONS FOR THEMSELVES & THEIR BABIES & ARE ABLE TO OBTAIN SAFE, RESPECTFUL, & EQUITABLE MEDICAL CARE.

THE BAYARD RUSTIN CENTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
IS A COMMUNITY ACTIVIST CENTER
EDUCATIONAL BRIDGE &
SAFE-SPACE
FOR OUR LGBTQIA youth, OUR INTERSECTIONAL FAMILIES &
ALL OF OUR BEAUTIFULLY DIVERSE COMMUNITIES.

WHEN WE HAD TO CLOSE OUR DOORS PHYSICALLY, WE OPENED THEM VIRTUALLY AT OUR SOCIAL JUSTICE POWER HOUR !
WE BROADCAST THIS IMPORTANT PUBLIC SERVICE LIVE EVERY SINGLE WEEKNITE FOR OVER TWO YEARS, CREATING (& SUSTAINING) ONLINE COMMUNITY, OVER 600 SHOWS SINCE THE PANDEMIC STARTED GATHERING TOGETHER VIEWERS IN THE THOUSANDS, BECOMING AS EXPONENTIAL AS IT IS INSPIRATIONAL

ALL OUR PREVIOUS POWER HOURS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE~ FACEBOOK.COM/RUSTINCENTER/VIDEOS

PLEASE Support Our advocacy & outreach more IMPERATIVE than ever for our queer youth~
paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/3348328

2019 ~ OVER 3,000 MARCHIN' IN THE STREETS AT PRINCETON'S 1ST PRIDE PARADE
2020 & 2021 ~ over 20,000 folx gathered together in virtual community

as MEANINGFUL as it was fabulous

celebrating how far we have come whilst
recognizing how far we have yet to go

As Pride started as a riot in & of itself
Any Pride has to be as much of a protest as it is a party

"The proof that one truly believes

is in action"

Bayard Rustin was the primary architect of the March on Washington in '63. He brought the principle of non-violence to the civil rights movement, directly from his study in India with Mahatma Gandhi. He inspired the Freedom Riders to take their fateful/faith-full journey.

Bayard Rustin was also lost to history.
He was shamed & shunned because of a simple heartbreaking truth: He was a gay man & he would not disavow who he was or whom he loved. He was not only not given his due respect, but he was not given the basic kindness that we all deserve.
This cannot & will not happen again.
We are so incredibly proud to have the honor to use Bayard Rustin's name directly from his partner & our very own BRCSJ Board Member Emeritus, Mr. Walter Naegle.

We inspire our community & communicate our message of acceptance, respect & compassion by following the examples of both these fine men.

Call us into service!
Tell us what you need, where you need it, & how we can help you~
Have Social Justice, Will Travel
Let us be of service!→

Meaningful programming & fabulous events now back in full-force!
Join us as we build toward that
Beloved Community at our beautiful new BRCSJ HQ! →

Our boots on the ground ~
See what, where, & how we've been of service.

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Non-Profit Social Justice Community Activist Center, Educational Enclave & Safe Space for all our kids, students & all folks- LGBTQIA (GSA), immigrant families; our brothers & sisters from all economic, cultural, & spiritual backgrounds. Boots on the ground. Let us be of service! Chi

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DCF posts only vetted and relevant information or resources from contracted/affiliated organizations and agencies. If your organization is interested in contracting opportunities with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, please visit https://www.nj.gov/dcf/providers/notices/requests/ to learn more.

The Anti-Violence Project
Through community organizing, education, policy and research, the Community Organizing and Public Advocacy (COPA) Department works towards shifting policy, building power of community members and responding to incidents of anti-LGBTQIA+ violence in order to create systemic change in people's lives.

Babs Siperstein PROUD Center (Somerset County)
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset offers specialized primary care services for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community at our Babs Siperstein PROUD Center.

Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice
EDUCATE. ADVOCATE. COLLABRORATE. Center for Social Justice in Princeton, NJ

Edge New Jersey
The mission of EDGE New Jersey is to respond compassionately and responsibly to the HIV+ and LGBTQIA+ communities by providing supportive services, housing opportunities, prevention strategies and education to enhance the community we serve. The vision of EDGE is to empower those we serve to achieve a healthy, safe and self-sufficient life, providing the resources to positively influence their community.

National alliance of state-based lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender advocacy organizations.

The Family Acceptance Project® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

Garden State Equality lifts up the diverse voices of LGBTQIA+ communities through education and advocacy to advance the movement for equality in New Jersey and nationally. We work tirelessly to ensure the communities we serve experience lived equality.

Garden State Equality is the largest LGBTQIA+ advocacy organization in New Jersey, with over 150,000 members. Established in 2004, we are now one of the most successful statewide LGBTQIA+ civil rights organizations in the nation.

Our services include advocacy, policy work, and training. We work to address safe environments for youth, improvement of health services that meet LGBTQIA+ community needs, and respectful treatment of seniors. Beyond that, Garden State Equality supports New Jersey's activist community by bringing an LGBTQIA+ lens to the shared struggle for justice.

All our current work is informed by racial, economic, and disability justice concerns. We envision a vibrant and diverse Garden State with full equality in the law and LGBTQIA+ residents of all backgrounds experiencing equality in their lives.
Lists events throughout New Jersey to connect the LGBTQIA+ community. Online directory of New Jersey businesses and a support group calendar organized by issues and geographic locations.

GLSEN - The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network
Ensures school students are treated with respect without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity and/or expression. Strives to create school settings that value differences for a powerful and diverse community.
GLSEN - Central Chapter
GLSEN - Southern Chapter

GSA Network
GSA Network is a next-generation LGBTQIA+ racial and gender justice organization that empowers and trains queer, trans and allied youth leaders to advocate, organize, and mobilize an intersectional movement for safer schools and healthier communities. Register you GSA or learn how to start one in your school!

Hudson Pride Center
Hudson Pride was established in the early 1990's to serve as an advocate and social service provider for both the LGBTQIA+ and HIV/AIDS communities in Hudson County at a time when few organizations in our area were willing and able to do so, and more than 25 years later, we continue to deliver a wide array of services, programs, and events to meet their on-going health and social support needs.

HiTOPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fosters strong and healthy young people of all identities by providing inclusive and youth-informed sex education and LGBTQIA+ support for young people throughout New Jersey.

Advocates for LGBTQIA+ Americans, mobilizes grassroots action, and educates the public about LGBTQIA+ issues.

Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscope supports LGBTQIA+/Questioning youth, young adults and their families in building healthy relationships, strong social connections and critically needed life skills. Kaleidescope is located in Bordentown, NJ and offers individual coaching, support groups, parent supports, and mental health services.

Lambda Legal
Founded in 1973, Lambda Legal is the oldest and largest national legal organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we do not charge our clients for legal representation or advocacy, and we receive no government funding. We depend on contributions from supporters around the country.

North Jersey Community research Initiative: LGBTQI Services Project WOW
Offers a drop-in community center for LGBTQI+ youth ages 14-24 in Newark as well as other services. For more information call: (888) 688-9078

Out Montclair
Out Montclair is a nonprofit organization created to raise awareness and provide support and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community of Montclair. We offer educational and charitable activities and events to promote inclusivity and equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, non-binary and gender-fluid youth and adults. Additionally, we are a safe space where our community and our allies can come together and celebrate who we are.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
The PFLAG mission is to build on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQIA+ people and allies who support one another, and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQIA+ people. To find a local chapter visit here: https://pflag.org/find-a-chapter s. There are many local chapters throughout NJ which can be found by visiting pflag.org and clicking on "find a chapter".
PFLAG - Monmouth and Ocean County

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey (PPMNJ)
PPMNJ through the Gender Affirming Care program offers gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) using informed consent for patients 18 years of age and older, providing them with compassionate, validating, and thorough care. This includes medical transitioning as well as linking patients with additional resources to help them be their most authentic selves. In tandem with trained prescribing clinicians, Patient Navigator for Gender Affirming Care, Avery Heimann, (they/them pronouns) assists patients in accessing wraparound services, including a bimonthly virtual GAHT Support Group for patients in the program. As the Navigator for GAHT, Avery also works with patients to make sure their care is as affordable as possible.

The Pride Center of New Jersey
Offers numerous social, supportive, educational, entertaining, and fun events and groups for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The PRIDE Center (Center for Family Services)
Center for Family Services' The PRIDE Center is located in Mercer County for youth and families offering an array of services for LGBTQI+ youth and young adults: Kaleidoscope, The PRIDE Training Institute, NJ PRISM Hotline(844.NJPRISM), Mentoring, Individual, short-term counseling, Group counseling, Support groups for youth and families, Emergency shelter/safe housing, Access to LGBTQIA+ afffirming resources such as therapy, health care, housing and more

PROUD Gender Center of New Jersey
At the Center, a multidisciplinary team of family medicine physicians, gynecologists, urologists, endocrinologists, plastic surgeons and otolaryngologists provides specialized care for LGBTQIA+ patients. Hormone therapy and surgical procedures are offered to support the transition of transgender patients.
Ph: 1-833-BH-PROUD (1-833-247-7683)

QSpot LGBT Community Center
QSpot fosters the health, well-being and pride of NJ's LGBT and allied community by providing resources, referrals, education, and outreach. QSpot works tirelessly to fulfill its mission while operating a safe and welcoming LGBT community center.

Rutgers Center for Transgender Health (RCTH)
The Rutgers Center for Transgender Health is a multidisciplinary center that provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical care for people of the transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) experience. Our team of expert health professionals offer a compassionate, coordinated approach to gender affirmation.

SAMHSA Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration
Resources on the LGBTQIA+ population include national survey reports, agency and federal initiatives, and related behavioral health resources from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The Trevor Project
Provides information & support to LGBTQIA+ young people 24/7, all year round. Visit The Trevor Project to get more info on how to call, chat, or text with a counselor.

The PRIDE Center (Mercer County)
The PRIDE Center of Mercer County provides an array of services for youth identifying as LGBTQIA+ as well as support for families of LGBTQIA+ youth. Our experienced staff take referrals from schools and other social service providers working with youth who are struggling with mental health challenges, bullying, acceptance and in need of support.

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Learning Archive and Introduction to LGBTQ Competency

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Learning Archive and Introduction to LGBTQ Competency

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Skip to Content

All Children - All Families: Online Learning Archive

Share this page on:

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HRC's All Children - All Families regularly provides online learning offerings covering promising practices in serving LGBTQ children, youth and families. To watch the recordings at no cost, click "View Recorded Webinar" and fill out the short form. You will then receive an email with instructions for viewing the webinar.

If you're interested in additional LGBTQ cultural competency training offerings, learn about All Children - All Families Training Program. You can also register for our live webinars, and subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive the latest best practice tips for LGBTQ inclusion in your inbox every month!

Introduction to LGBTQ+ Inclusion Presented by All Children - All Families | 90 minutes
This webinar covers foundational information related to serving LGBTQ+ youth and families. Topics include key terminology and concepts, an overview of the barriers faced by LGBTQ+ youth and families in child welfare, and the steps all service providers can take to overcome these barriers in order to create a welcoming environment.
View Recorded Webinar

Best Practices in Serving LGBTQ+ Parents Presented by All Children - All Families| 90 Minutes
This webinar provides an in-depth look at role-specific best practices for serving LGBTQ+ foster and adoptive parents. Topics include facts and myths around LGBTQ+ parenting, law and policy, LGBTQ+ parent recruitment, homestudies, and matching/placement.
View Recorded Webinar

Traditionally Religious AND LGBTQ-Affirming: How Social Workers Can Help Families Be Both
Presented By: Robin McHaelen, Julia Buck, Jaime Dias Delgado, Melanie Michaud, Brooke Scott | 60 minutes | August 2021
A positive response to their child's LGBTQ journey is critical in helping that young person grow into a healthy, happy young adult. For some families, their religious beliefs seem directly in conflict with affirming their child's LGBTQ identity. Social workers, clinicians and other providers can help families negotiate the journey in ways that support their values and their children. Featuring social workers who successfully balanced their own religious beliefs with their professional responsibilities, this webinar will offer participants strategies for use in their work and in their personal lives.
View Recorded Webinar

Neither//Nor: Stories of Life Beyond Binary Gender
Presented by Robin McHaelen, Justina Hall, Nakiya Lynch, Davi Muhlinghaud-Anderson, & Wolfheart Sanchez | 60 minutes | July 2021

View Recorded Webinar
Non-Binary; NB; Gender Fluid, Genderqueer... More and more people are negotiating gender beyond the binaries of Male/Female/Man/Woman/Boy/Girl. This panel of youth and young adults will share their experiences beyond the gender binary and how child welfare professionals and organizations can create inclusive spaces for folks of all genders.

Putting Intersectionality Into Practice
Presented by Nia Clark and Robin McHaelen | 60 minutes | January 2021

This webinar will introduce participants to intersectionality -- a theory that calls on us to recognize that oppressions are linked and cannot be resolved alone -- and how it informs our efforts to achieve safety, permanency and well-being for all young people. Participants will hear directly from LGBTQ youth on what intersectionality means to them and what it looks like in practice for child welfare professionals. Case scenarios focused on serving LGBTQ youth and adults in child welfare will illustrate what intersectionality can look like in practice.

View Recorded Webinar

LGBTQ Parents Speak Out: What They Have Learned About Fostering Youth

Presented by Robin McHaelen, James Alva, Sarah Field, Eddie Rodriguez, Matthew Strieker | 60 minutes | March 2021

This panel of LGBTQ parents and kinship caregivers will share the joys -- and challenges -- of fostering youth. Panelists will share their experiences with foster/kinship care, with an emphasis on support strategies that worked -- or didn't. This webinar will be of interest to potential foster parents as well as the social workers/agencies that recruit, train and support caregivers.

View Recorded Webinar

SOGIE Data Collection: Exploring Current Best Practice & Lessons Learned from the Field

This webinar will explore the current state of SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity and expression) data collection in child welfare, including a review of emerging best practices and resources available from jurisdictions collecting SOGIE data. Panelists from several jurisdictions will discuss their experiences with implementing SOGIE data collection measures and lessons learned.

View Recorded Webinar

Moving Forward Toward Racial Equity & Inclusion: A Discussion for All Children - All Families Partner Organizations Presented by Juanita Gallion, Deputy Director of Equity & Learning, Center for Study of Social Policy, Kristen Weber, Director of Equity, Inclusion & Justice, Center for Study of Social Policy | 60 minutes | June 2020
As protests against police brutality, racism and white supremacy continue across the U.S., ACAF partner organizations are publicly committing to action to advance racial equity and inclusion within their institutions. Many are also re-examining the child welfare system's role in structural racism. This webinar, offered in partnership with our friends at the Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP), is an opportunity for organization leaders and change-makers to learn together as we move to put these commitments into action. Three stages of organizational growth identified through CSSP's own journey toward centering racial equity, inclusion and justice will be presented. Lessons learned will also be covered, with insight on both the internal change work necessary to create racially equitable work environments as well as ensuring equitable external efforts.
View Recorded Webinar

Get in touch.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is working to change the institutions of daily life for LGBTQ+ people. Our staff members are experts in making that happen - and they're here to help.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, All Rights Reserved

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All Children - All Families: Online Learning Archive

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Skip to Content All Children - All Families: Online Learning Archive Share this page on: Twitter Facebook HRC's All Children - All Families regularly provides online learning offerings covering promising practices in serving LGBTQ children, youth and families. To watch the recordings at no cost, click "View Recorded Webinar" and fill out the short form.

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The LGBTQ+ community struggles with mental health and substance use disorders at alarmingly high rates. Providing treatment programming that is in full alignment with the unique needs of this population is essential.

Our innovative new treatment track serves the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community related to mental health and substance use disorders. The approach focuses on the development of strategies to embrace identity, empower oneself, and find acceptance.

Within the context of this LGBTQ+ affirming environment, the inclusive track provides symptom stabilization, lifelong recovery-based skills, and medication management.

LEARN MORE ►

Contact the representatives below or call (800) 877-3628 to refer or learn more!

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The LGBTQ+ Track
Treatment with Pride
The LGBTQ+ community struggles with mental health and substance use disorders at alarmingly high rates. Studies show LGBTQ+ adults are more than twice as likely to suffer from mental health conditions than other populations. This is especially true for mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

Providing treatment programming that is in full alignment with the unique needs of this population is essential. At High Focus Centers, our approach focuses on helping LGBTQ+ patients develop strategies to embrace their identity, empower themselves, and find acceptance.

Our LGBTQ+ focused track offers a rich curriculum designed to help address common issues that members of the LGBTQ+ community face. We can help individuals who are struggling with mental health disorders, substance abuse, or a combination of both develop healthy and lifelong recovery-based skills.
Get Help Today
The LGBTQ+ track offers an affirming environment at High Focus Centers. It focuses on helping members of the community:

Identify their authentic self

Find community

Promote advocacy & empowerment

Build healthy relationships

Address trauma

The skills developed through the LGBTQ+ program provide a framework for mental health and substance abuse recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about our LGBTQ+ Track
How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect The LGBTQ+ Community?

Members of the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to experience mental health conditions than their those of other populations. They are at an increased risk for experiencing discrimination, shame, fear, and traumatic events.

LGBTQ+ people often face adversity resulting from their sexual orientation or gender identity. This can include coming out to family and friends, facing rejection, and experiencing trauma from bullying and hate crimes. As a result, LGBTQ+ struggle with increased rates of mental health disorders and substance abuse:

Finding help can be a challenge for LGBTQ+ individuals. Past experiences and current social stigmas may prevent members of the LGBTQ+ community from seeking help. The LGBTQ+ track at High Focus Centers offers a welcoming, safe environment for recovery and personal growth.

High Focus Centers offers programs custom tailored to address the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. We offer adult psychiatric services and co-occurring disorder services at our Cherry Hill, NJ location. Both adult psychiatric and adolescent psychiatric services are available at our Lawrenceville, NJ and Paramus, NJ locations. Contact us to learn more about our LGBTQ+ program.
Download Brochure

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LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment | High Focus Centers

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Treatment with Pride The LGBTQ+ community struggles with mental health and substance use disorders at alarmingly high rates. Studies show LGBTQ+ adults are more than twice as likely to suffer from mental health conditions than other populations. This is especially true for mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

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GLSEN Professional Development aims to empower educators to act in allyship with LGBTQ students.

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GLSEN currently offers its Intentional Inclusion Professional Development Series to schools, districts, and other youth-serving agencies and organizations.

The GLSEN Intentional Inclusion PD Series is intersectionality forward with an emphasis on advancing racial, gender and disability justice.

"This has been one of the most meaningful PDs I have attended in a long time. I wish everyone in my district had to attend."
- PD Participant in September 2022

Covered topics include:

Identifying exclusion grounded in racism, ableism, transphobia, and other systems of oppression

Gender identity/expression, pronouns, and gender inclusive language

Leading conversations with young people and adults about inclusion

Students' and educators' legal rights, on the basis of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, and more

Differentiated, role-specific best-practices and resources for school staff, including:

Sample LGBTQ+ affirming lesson plans

Grade-aligned, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC affirming book lists for teachers and school librarians

Model school policies for student records, dress codes, bathroom/locker room access and sports participation

Resources for supporting student-led GSA clubs

GLSEN Facilitators

GLSEN facilitators have all gone through a rigorous preparation process and have a range of 5 to 30 years of experience in education and youth programming work. Organizations/schools/districts that partner with GLSEN for PD will have a virtual Pre-PD meeting with their facilitators approximately 2 weeks prior to their first PD date.

Funding for GLSEN PD

Various state and federal funding streams can be used to bring GLSEN PD to your school/district/organization. These include Title II-A, Title IV-A, and ESSER funds.

Process for Requesting GLSEN PD

Once you fill out the form at the below link, you will be invited to schedule a PD intake call with a GLSEN teammate. On that call, we'll hear more about your school/organization/district's specific needs, answer your questions about our training, and discuss pricing. Given demand for GLSEN PD, we recommend completing the GLSEN PD Request form as far in advance of your target PD date as possible.

"Great resources and excellent dialogue. Definitely keeping the participant guides--they're awesome! It will give me a solid framework for supporting staff, students, and families."
- PD Participant in June 2023

"The opportunity to explore so many resources and learn how to use new tools for analysis was wonderful. These topics are so large that it's easy to go down a rabbit hole online; having tested and validated resources to use makes a huge difference."
- PD Participant in June 2023

"I enjoyed the data that was shared about [my] state and LGBTQ+ youth. The terminology shared and what gender inclusive practices means gave me a lot to think about."
- PD Participant in June 2023

"I loved having the time to deep dive into the materials and apply to MY own work."
- PD Participant in June 2023

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The GLSEN Intentional Inclusion PD Series is intersectionality forward with an emphasis on advancing racial, gender and disability justice. "This has been one of the most meaningful PDs I have attended in a long time. I wish everyone in my district had to attend."

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September 15, 2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact info@hitops.org HiTOPS Targeted by Right-Wing Hate Group Princeton, NJ - HiTOPS has been targeted by an ultra-rightwing, conservative organization, Project Veritas, a known hate group that uses deceptive, unethical practices to spread misinformation. Project Veritas' methods of manipulation are well-documented, and they have targeted numerous organizations and individuals [...]

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September 15, 2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact info@hitops.org HiTOPS Targeted by Right-Wing Hate Group Princeton, NJ - HiTOPS has been targeted by an ultra-rightwing, conservative organization, Project Veritas, a known hate group that uses deceptive, unethical practices to spread misinformation. Project Veritas' methods of manipulation are well-documented, and they have targeted numerous organizations and individuals [...]

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Click here for a list of the Best Diverse Children’s Books with Transgender, Non-Binary & Gender Expansive Characters.

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Meditation for Pride Month! Love the cello? Enjoy

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What is A in LGBTQIA+? (Pride Month Cello Meditation)

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National Child Traumatic Stress Network

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The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

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The following resources on LGBTQ Youth were developed by the NCTSN.

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Resources: Engaging Families in Affirming Trauma-Informed Care for LGBTQ Children and Youth

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Resources: Engaging Families in Affirming Trauma-Informed Care for LGBTQ Children and Youth

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New Jersey Resiliency Coalition

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Research has shown that LGBTQ youth who have family support have better outcomes through their youth and into adulthood. This is especially relevant for LGBTQ youth who have experienced trauma and may face ongoing safety concerns related to their identities. This webinar will outline techniques for engaging families in affirming treatment and care of their LGBTQ youth, including a review of strategies used within the Family Acceptance Project (FAP) with founder Caitlin Ryan. FAP, a...

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans. In June of 1969, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist the police harassment and persecution to which LGBT Americans were commonly subjected. This uprising marks the beginning...

New York Times bestselling author Janet Mock continues to make history as a writer, director, and advocate. In 2018, Mock became the first transgender woman of color to write and direct an episode of television. Most recently, she signed a three-year multimillion-dollar contract with Netflix, making her the first openly transgender woman of color to sign a deal with a major content company. Mock hopes that her creations will continue to "empower people and equip them to tell their own...

Renee Richards Long before Caitlyn Jenner came out, pro-tennis player Renee Richards shook up the sports world when she came out as a transgender woman. She made even greater waves later, when she returned to tennis and sued the United States Tennis Association, the Women's Tennis Association, and the United States Open Committee for her right to compete as a woman. Although she was one of the first to take on that battle (and win!), Richards doesn't consider herself a pioneer. She told GQ...

Simone de Beauvoir An outspoken political activist, writer and social theorist, in 1949 de Beauvoir wrote The Second Sex , an ahead-of-its-time book credited with paving the way for modern feminism. In the influential (and at the time, extremely controversial) book, de Beauvoir critiques the patriarchy and social constructs faced by women. The Second Sex was banned by The Vatican and even deemed "pornography" by some -a fearless start to the fight for feminism. Marlene Dietrich While her...

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LGBTQIA+ | NJ Resiliency Coalition | PACEsConnection

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Research has shown that LGBTQ youth who have family support have better outcomes through their youth and into adulthood. This is especially relevant for LGBTQ youth who have experienced trauma and may face ongoing safety concerns related to their identities.

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Every Tuesday

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MonmouthCares is excited to announce our new collaboration with PFLAG Jersey Shore to bring new support services to LGBTQ teens in Monmouth County!

Our new Your Authentic Self (YAS), Teen - Monmouth is a social group for LGBTQ teens. Built on the framework of Ocean Partnership for Children's YAS, Teen meeting in Ocean County, our group will officially start on Monday, February 15, 2021.

When: 3rd Monday of every month
Where: Virtually using the Zoom platform
Who: LGBTQ teens ages 13 to 18
How: Link to access the meeting sent out via text the day of the meeting

Individuals attending for the first time will need to complete an Informed Consent which can be found below. By fully completing the form and hitting submit, you will be registering to receive the information to join the group and acknowledging terms on the Informed Consent. Access to the meeting information will be sent out through texts on the day of the meeting.

MonmouthCares & PFLAG Jersey Shore are proud of our partnership and hope these services will bring together and build a community of love and acceptance and promote the well-being of LGBTQ teens!

Please click to sign up to receive emails/texts from PFLAG Jersey Shore which will include meeting notifications.

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Your Authentic Self - LGBTQ+ Teen Support Group

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Our new Your Authentic Self (YAS), Teen - Monmouth is a social group for LGBTQ teens. Built on the framework of Ocean Partnership for Children's YAS, Teen meeting in Ocean County, our group will officially start on Monday, February 15, 2021.

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Listen to Rae McDaniel, a transgender diversity and inclusion specialist, discuss topics around gender expression including the gender spectrum, pronouns, safety within the trans/non-binary world, gender dysphoria, how parents can support their kids coming out, and more!

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Rae's story

Gender spectrum

Expanding and exploring gender

Deep dive into pronouns

Gender shakes people's fundamental ideas of the world

How parents can support their kids coming out

Gender dysphoria

Tips for parents to support and accept their child in a scary world

Safety within the trans/non binary world

Celebrating gender expression

The world needs people who are their most authentic selves

Resources from Rae:
What does joyful courage mean to you?
Full expression. I also think of the words pleasure and audacity when I think of joyful courage. It's not about not being afraid, it's stepping into the arena even though we are afraid. So to me joyful courage means stepping into the arena, whatever that means to you, in the fullest expression of yourself and doing so in a way that also focuses on joy and pleasure.

See you next week!! :)

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PARENTING FOR THE SEASON YOU'RE IN

I took the feedback of all the parents who went through in March and have added a week and tweaked the content a bit to make it an EVER MORE transformational learning experience!!

ENROLLMENT IS OPEN AND SPACE IS LIMITED.

Parenting for the Season You're in (or "the seasons course" as I like to call it) is a five week class for parents of middle and high school aged kids. It is a space for learning the PD tools that support connection and firmness, as well as a gentle look at the ways we may be getting in the way of our adolescents' growth and development.

We will connect around the collective experience of raising teens, learn about teen brain development, consider our parenting style, embody connected firmness, and learn encouragement tools that will sustain us in the years ahead.

After going through the program in March, one parent shared:
I have been struggling with consequences for my teens - what should they be and why aren't they working! We have been locked in a power struggle with my younger teen and I found myself trying to force him to do what I want - control instead of collaboration. This program helped me pivot away from consequences and reframe situations with a view on solutions, and really thinking harder about what part of the work or choice is really mine and which is his..
And another parent offered
I loved how it consistently (the course) helped me to see another way and learn how to be and remember to be in relationship with my teen and not simply trying to fix or control the challenging behaviors.
This is deep learning, my friends, check it out at www.joyfulcourage.com/seasons to get more info and claim your spot!

::::

The Book, The Coaching

Joyful Courage is so much more than a podcast! I know that you love listening in every week AND I want to encourage you to dig deeper into the learning with me, INVEST in your parenting journey.

READ THE BOOK - Joyful Courage, Calming the Drama and Taking Control of Your Parenting Journey is all about how to show up as a Joyful Courage parent so that you have better access to the tools you need in hot parenting moments - tools that are helpful and maintain connection with your child. Available both in book and audio book form → http://www.joyfulcourage.com/book

CONSIDER ONE ON ONE COACHING - The most POWERFUL of investments offered by Joyful Courage, one on one coaching allows for parents to really tease apart the current issues they are having with their child, while also developing a clear compass for guiding them in the direction they want to be going in. Coaching happens every other week, and is open for parents with kids 4 years old through the teen years. Go to my coaching page to book a free exploratory call and see if we are the right fit. → http://www.joyfulcourage.com/jccoaching

:::::

Be a Subscriber

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to the Joyful Courage Podcast on Apple Podcast to get the latest shows STRAIGHT to your device!! AND PLEASE rate and review the Joyful Courage Parenting Podcast to help me spread the show to an ever-larger audience!!

to watch a video that shows up how to subscribe with your iPhone!

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Eps 276: Understanding Gender Expression with Rae McDaniels - Joyful Courage

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COMMUNITY IS EVERYTHING! Join the Joyful Courage Tribe in our community Facebook groups: Live and Love with Joyful Courage Joyful Courage for Parents of Teens :::: My guest today is Rae McDaniel. Rae is a non-binary gender and sex therapist-turned-coach who works with transgender/non

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A special video to support Transgender and Students with Nonconforming Gender

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A special video to support Transgender and Students with Nonconforming Gender

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GLSEN Education for Educators

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Supporting Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students

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The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth. Click Here for information and merch to support this great project and support center.

Click Here to find out more about local pride events in Asbury Park, NJ for 2021

This video helps Teachers and Educators to support Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students.

Click Here for the Video

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The Gender Clinic for CHOP

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gender and sexuality development clinic at chop

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gender and sexuality development clinic children's hospital

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Gender and Sexuality Development Program

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The Gender and Sexuality Development Program offers psychosocial and medical support for gender nonconforming, gender expansive and transgender children and youth up to age 21 and their families.

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Community and Support for NJ LGBTQIA+ Youth 14-24

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Community and Support for NJ LGBTQIA+ Youth 14-24

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North Jersey Community research Initiative: LGBTQI Services Project WOW
Offers a drop-in community center for LGBTQI+ youth ages 14-24 in Newark as well as other services. For more information call: (888) 688-9078

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Seeking Cures For Tomorrow, Providing Support for Today. We're an innovative community-responsive organization helping individuals thrive. We offer comprehensive care and compassionate support to over 20,000 people annually, elevating health and care while empowering the community.

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Supports for LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

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Supports for LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

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This is from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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AFSP is dedicated to preventing suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people. As a public health organization, AFSP believes that it is our individual and collective responsibility to support the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ people.

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LGBTQ mental health and suicide prevention

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AFSP is dedicated to preventing suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people. As a public health organization, AFSP believes that it is our individual and collective responsibility to support the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ people.

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Help and Support for Talking about coming out.

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Counselors Specializing in LBGTQ+ Topics

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See more therapy options for New Jersey

Gay Therapists
We should make clear that not all the therapists listed here are gay themselves. Rather, they specialize in helping with aspects of being gay in New Jersey or homosexual. They provide help for gay couples in gay relationships, gay issues and issues that affect gay life.

If you're gay or are looking for help with gay issues in New Jersey or for a New Jersey gay therapist these professionals provide gay counseling and gay friendly care for gays or lesbians. They include gay friendly therapists plus gay therapists in New Jersey, gay friendly psychologists, and gay friendly counsellors.

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Find the Right Gay Therapist in New Jersey - Mary Lou Killian Searles, PhD, LCSW; Anthony Dimitrion, LCSW, CCSC; Israel Martinez, LCSW; Randy Robert Radd, MSW, LCSW; Linda Searles Stone, LCSW; Israel Martinez, LCSW; Philip A Rutter, PhD; James Vincent Mahon, LCSW, BCD

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Counselors Specializing in Transgender Topics

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Transgender Therapists
We should make clear that not all the therapists listed here are transgender themselves. Rather, they specialize in helping with aspects of being transgender in New Jersey and transgender identity. They help with trans life and trans relationships.

If you're transgender or are looking for help with transgender issues in New Jersey or for a New Jersey transgender therapist these professionals provide transgender counselling and transgender friendly care.

Transgender people in New Jersey may meet the criteria for a diagnosis of gender dysphoria (historically called gender identity disorder (GID)) "only if being transgender causes distress or disability." This distress is referred to as gender dysphoria.

The professionals listed here include transgender friendly therapists in New Jersey, transgender friendly therapists in New Jersey, transgender friendly psychologists, and transgender friendly counselors.

Counseling for transgender issues in New Jersey can help those living a transgendered life or transgender relationship; or family members coming to understand the life of their transgender child or sibling.

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Find the Right Transgender Therapist in New Jersey - Mary Lou Killian Searles, PhD, LCSW; Heike Zelnhefer, LCSW, CHT; Stephanie Sasso, PsyD; Eunice Aviles Faria, PsyD, LMHC; Institute for Personal Growth, LCSW; Donna German Klein, MSW, LCSW; Allison June Maroney-Lobell, LCSW; Sharon L Pluck, LCSW

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Social Justice Education Materials

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Learning for Justice provides free resources to educators—teachers, administrators, counselors and other practitioners—who work with children from kindergarten through high school.

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Philadelphia, PA

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The Attic creates opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community, and promotes the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society.

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LGBT Community Center

Asbury Park, NJ

Counseling, Support Groups, Trainings, Resources for At-risk, Homeless LGBT Youth, Clubs/Groups, 12 Step Recovery Meetings, Special Events

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QSpot LGBT Community Center is proud to announce that we are expanding to our own location in Asbury Park. The new property will continue to be a dedicated safe space where LGBT and allied community members can socialize, engage, and ... Continue reading

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QSpot LGBT Community Center 1601 Asbury Ave, Asbury Park, NJ

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QSpot LGBT Community Center is proud to announce that we are expanding to our own location in Asbury Park. The new property will continue to be a dedicated safe space where LGBT and allied community members can socialize, engage, and ... Continue reading

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877-565-8860

Peer support hotline is run by and for trans people

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Radical community care Radical community care Trans Lifeline provides trans peer support for our community that's been divested from police since day one. We're run by and for trans people. Learn More (877) 565-8860 (877) 330-6366 "This country

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NJGayLife.com keeps the NJ LGBT Community Connected! - NJGayLife.com keeps the NJ LGBT Community Connected!

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Human Rights Campaign

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HRC Celebrates National Coming Out Day 2020

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Rutgers Center for Transgender Health About Us. The Rutgers Center for Transgender Health is a multidisciplinary center that provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical care for people of the transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) experience.

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Rutgers New Jersey Medical School: A unit of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School is the oldest and largest school of allopathic medicine in New Jersey.

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We have specialties not found elsewhere: we’re internationally known experts on LGBTQ issues, we’re the largest provider of AASECT-certified sex therapy services in the tri-state region and we have a cutting-edge program for transgender and gender non-conforming youth.

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New Jersey Psychotherapy - Individual, Couple, Family, Marriage Counseling, Sex Therapy NJ

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January 4th, 2021
Happy New Year!

We're excited to announce two online support groups starting up at IPG in 2021, run by IPG therapists. One is a group for People of Color ages 21 and up, called "Black, Brown, and In Between". There will be a men's group and a women's group, and both groups will come together every third session. (Trans/GNC folks can choose whichever group they feel best matches their gender identity.) The support groups will run for 10 sessions to be held every other week beginning on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 7:30PM.

The second is a revival of our long-running Gender Spectrum group, for young adolescents to young adults who identify as transgender or gender non-conforming. There is also a group for their parents, which meets separately. These groups will meet once a month, beginning on Wednesday, January 20 for the first parents' group and Thursday, January 21 for the first adolescent/young adult group.

Both groups will be held online and are completely free of charge. A brief intake assessment is required to verify you are appropriate for the particular group. For more information or to register please call our main office at 732-246-8439, or email us via our Contact Us form on our website.

October 1st, 2020
Happy Fall everyone! We are still conducting mostly online therapy sessions for the time being, until it is deemed safe to return to regular in-person therapy. But rest assured, if you begin with online therapy you will be able to switch to in-person therapy when we are able to reopen our offices.

March 23rd, 2020
We are now conducting 100% online therapy sessions via our securely encrypted, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform. It's incredibly easy to use for clients - no downloads, installations, or user accounts required, just one click on a link. The same top quality, experienced, licensed IPG psychotherapists, conducting full-length sessions, but in online therapy format.

January 5th, 2020
Looking back on the past year, we are proud to report that two members of IPG's stellar staff have put their work in print:

(Trigger warning: rape, abuse, violence)
First, veteran IPG therapist Alison Grant, LCSW, was asked to write the introduction to a memoir about surviving childhood abuse and trauma. Alison's introduction to A Girl Raised By Wolves, by Lockey Maisonneuve, "explains the mechanics of repressed memories in trauma", which is a large focus of the book. See our most recent blog post with more info on the book in Alison's own words, and you can pick up a copy at the author's website.

Second, IPG's Scott Taylor, LCSW, has had not one but two professional publications in academic journals in the last year: "G. H. Mead's Philosophical Hermeneutics of the Present", European Journal of Pragmatism and American Philosophy, Vol. 11 No. 2, 2019; and "The Structure of Psychic Revolutions: A Psychoanalytic Account of Kuhnian Science", American Imago, Vol. 76 No. 3, 2019. The latter of these papers also earned Scott the Silberger Prize in interdisciplinary work in psychoanalysis from the Boston Psychoanalytic Society & Institution.

June 13th, 2019
Congrats to us! Yesterday IPG was honored with the PROUD Empowerment Award, presented by the PROUD Awards Committee based out of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. The award was given in recognition of our decades of work with the transgender community.

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New Jersey Psychotherapy | Individual, Couple, Family & Marriage Counseling | Sex Therapy NJ

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IPG has been a leading provider of expert, compassionate psychotherapy and counseling since 1983. Our highly skilled professionals can help you, whether your concerns are the result of temporary life stresses or the symptoms of deeper problems. Call us at 800-379-9220 to schedule an appointment.

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Where are the most Gay Friendly towns in NJ. 

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Where are the most Gay Friendly towns in NJ. 

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Rates for acceptance by NJ.com

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When Randy Rabney and her wife, Fran Lichtman, decided it was time to pack up their lives in Manhattan more than a decade ago, they only had one New Jersey town on their list of possible destinations: Maplewood.

As native New Yorkers, Rabney said they drove to the town "to rule it out," never expecting to take the plunge into the New Jersey suburbs, but the couple quickly decided that's the place they wanted to raise their son, who was two and a half at the time.

"For us, what we were looking for was a community where we could truly be integrated into the fabric," Rabney said, a place where people would look at their son and say, "There's Zan," not, "There's that Jewish boy with two mothers."

For them, Rabney said, Maplewood -- and neighboring South Orange -- has been that community.

While the Garden State is not home to historic gay meccas like the Castro District in San Francisco or Chelsea in New York City, there are towns throughout the state that many describe as havens for LGBT -- lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender -- people and families. Though there has been considerable progress in recent years, LGBT issues are still at the forefront of political discourse, and gays don't necessarily feel comfortable in every community -- even in one of the most diverse and left-learning states in the nation.

Towns like Maplewood, South Orange, other suburbs of New York City, some Jersey Shore communities and the state's second largest city, are particularly welcoming to the gay community and particularly progressive on issues affecting that community, residents and activists say.

The diversity of the LGBT community makes compiling a definitive list of gay-friendly towns in New Jersey a difficult task -- as each person places different priorities in choosing a place to call home -- and a comprehensive analysis of how the hundreds of municipalities in New Jersey stack up against one another on LGBT issues does not exist.

But when determining a town's friendliness toward its LGBT community, Christian Fuscarino, the executive director of Garden State Equality, said public displays of gay pride, including flag-raising ceremonies, show the municipality is "proactively inclusive of their LGBT residents."

Hoisting a rainbow flag high in the air in front of City Hall, however, is just one of many actions Fuscarino would consider when rating a town on this topic, adding that he'd also factor in whether the town had established an LGBT police liaison and provided equal health care benefits to LGBT employees.

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest LGBT rights organization, releases a rating of towns throughout the country every year based, in part, on those issues. A dozen towns in New Jersey were rated by the Human Rights Campaign this year, with Jersey City netting a perfect score from the organization for the fourth year in a row.

Fuscarino believes the same community would take top honors if a New Jersey-centric ranking were done.

"I think Jersey City probably takes the cake when it comes to being the most friendly LGBT town," he said.

Beyond the city's large population of LGBT residents, annual pride festival and community center dedicated to LGBT people, Fuscarino pointed to efforts spearheaded at the municipal level to embrace the LGBT community.

The city has established an LGBT community liaison in the mayor's office and an LGBT police liaison. Jersey City also expanded health care options for its employees last year to cover transgender medical care, including gender reassignment surgery.

None of the 12 New Jersey cities included in the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index, scored as high as Jersey City, though Lambertville came close, with a score of 98 out of 100.

Asbury Park received the third-best rating in New Jersey from the Human Rights Campaign, with a score of 83, followed by Princeton at 74. Ocean Grove, Trenton, New Brunswick, Newark and Elizabeth each received scores between 60 to 70, while Hoboken and Paterson fared the worst among the towns rated, with a score of 51 and 48, respectively.

The average score, nationwide, was 55. Scores were capped at 100, even if towns scored more than that amount with bonus points.

Paul Amatuzzo, a lifelong Jersey City resident and a real estate agent with Armagno Agency, said gay people, like himself, are attracted to Jersey City because they want to be "able to live the life that we live and not be ridiculed."

"Jersey City has proven to be a great place for gay people to live because it's very accepting and it's always been a diverse city," he said.

Amatuzzo also identifies Asbury Park, where he owns a home, as an "extremely gay-friendly" town and one that celebrates the LGBT community every year at Jersey Pride, an annual parade and festival that marked its 25th year this summer.

The Jersey Shore town has a history of gay bars and clubs going back to the 1970s and an active gay business community today, said Amy Quinn, the deputy mayor of Asbury Park. She noted that city officials authorized a marriage between a same-sex couple in 2004 -- nine years before gays and lesbians would legally be allowed to wed in New Jersey.

"I have never lived in a town that has been so welcoming to the LGBTQ community," said Quinn, who married her wife on the boardwalk in Asbury Park in one of the first same-sex weddings performed in New Jersey.

Other Jersey Shore communities, like Ocean Grove, Atlantic City and Cape May, are known as welcoming to the gay community, as are suburban communities like Montclair, Plainfield and Princeton. The LGBT-interest magazine The Advocate earlier this year listed Edison -- the home of New Jersey's Lesbian and Gay Havurah and gay-friendly Temple Emanu-El -- as one of the queerest cities in America.

The federal government doesn't survey people about their sexual orientation or gender identity as part of the Census, making it difficult to determine where the largest population of LGBT residents reside. The Census does, however, track same-sex couple households by state and found 16,875 same-sex couples were living together in New Jersey in 2010.

The Williams Institute, a think tank at UCLA Law that conducts research on sexual orientation and gender identity law and public policy, analyzed the Census data to determine the cities in New Jersey with the largest number of same-sex couples per 1,000 households. Ocean Grove topped the list, followed by Lambertville, Asbury Park and Collingswood. Montclair, Plainfield, Brookdale, Highland Park, Jersey City and Metuchen filled out the top 10.

While Maplewood and South Orange weren't included on that list, residents there say that lesbian and gay families are completely enmeshed in the community. Rabney -- who works as a real estate agent with her wife for Lichtman-Rabney Group at Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct Realty -- said, "people are coming here because they want to be in a community where they can just be who they are."

"We want nice houses that we can afford. We want a community that's open minded. We want schools that are good for our children," she said. "All of those things make it LGBT friendly because it's people friendly."
Erin O'Neill may be reached at eoneill@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @LedgerErin. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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Where are the most LGBT-friendly towns in N.J.?

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When Randy Rabney and her wife, Fran Lichtman, decided it was time to pack up their lives in Manhattan more than a decade ago, they only had one New Jersey town on their list of possible destinations: Maplewood.

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At the Hetrick-Martin Institute we believe all young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.

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At the Hetrick-Martin Institute we believe all young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.

Hetrick-Martin creates this environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth between the ages of 13 and 24 and their families.

Through a comprehensive package of direct services and referrals, Hetrick-Martin seeks to foster healthy youth development. Hetrick-Martin's staff promotes excellence in the delivery of youth services and uses its expertise to create innovative programs that other organizations may use as models.

Become a Youth Member Get Involved

We also insist on using only high-quality medicines, if you do not have money for Viagra then buy generic Viagra only from approved manufacturers.

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Hetrick-Martin Institute - The Nation's Largest LGBTQ Youth Services Agency

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At the Hetrick-Martin Institute we believe all young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential. Hetrick-Martin creates this environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth between the ages of 13 and 24 and their families.

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ASSOCIATION OF LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER: ADDICTION PROFESSIONALS AND THEIR ALLY COMMUNITY.

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Following all 50 states legislative action for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.

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Equality Federation Reacts to Supreme Court Decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis

Today, Equality Federation responded to the Supreme Court's decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis, a case about whether a business that is open to the public can be granted an unprecedented free speech exemption from state nondiscrimination law in order to turn away customers they would rather not serve. In a 6-3 decision, the Court ruled for 303 Creative in a highly fact-specific decision authorizing a narrow exception to state nondiscrimination laws for a website developer.

Join Our Team in Supporting Our Members This Give OUT Day

After you donate to Equality Federation, please consider matching that gift with a donation to your closest participating state partner and a BIPOC-focused organization this Give Out Day.

Paid Health Leave and its benefits for everyone

Paid Health Leave for everyone would provide access to taking care of oneself without jeopardizing their employment. This is a part of public health, and we must invest in it to keep everyone safe.

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We accelerate advocacy in the LGBTQ community | Equality Federation

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Equality Federation is an advocacy accelerator rooted in social justice, building power in our network of state-based lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) advocacy organizations.

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Supports and More

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SUPPORT MEETINGS NOW ONLINE & HELD WEEKLY Sign up HERE to receive access to online meetings Click HERE to access Covid-19 specific resources Need Support? PFLAG JERSEY SHORE IS HERE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT,

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Parent Guide to Support your LGBTQ Child. 

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Parent Guide to Support your LGBTQ Child. 

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Parents: Quick Tips for Supporting Your LGBTQ Kids--and YOURSELF--During the Coming-Out Process

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When a loved one comes out, reactions vary, from "

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Resources, Helpline, Peer Chat,

Youth Talkline 800-246-7743

Mon - Fri 4pm - 12am EST, Sat 12pm - 5pm EST

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The PFLAG Chapter Network--with over 400 chapters across the country--provides confidential peer support, education, and advocacy to LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies

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We're so glad you found us! PFLAG is the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.

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DCF posts only vetted and relevant information or resources from contracted/affiliated organizations and agencies. If your organization is interested in contracting opportunities with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, please visit https://www.nj.gov/dcf/providers/notices/requests/ to learn more.

The Anti-Violence Project
Through community organizing, education, policy and research, the Community Organizing and Public Advocacy (COPA) Department works towards shifting policy, building power of community members and responding to incidents of anti-LGBTQIA+ violence in order to create systemic change in people's lives.

Babs Siperstein PROUD Center (Somerset County)
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset offers specialized primary care services for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community at our Babs Siperstein PROUD Center.

Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice
EDUCATE. ADVOCATE. COLLABRORATE. Center for Social Justice in Princeton, NJ

Edge New Jersey
The mission of EDGE New Jersey is to respond compassionately and responsibly to the HIV+ and LGBTQIA+ communities by providing supportive services, housing opportunities, prevention strategies and education to enhance the community we serve. The vision of EDGE is to empower those we serve to achieve a healthy, safe and self-sufficient life, providing the resources to positively influence their community.

National alliance of state-based lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender advocacy organizations.

The Family Acceptance Project® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

Garden State Equality lifts up the diverse voices of LGBTQIA+ communities through education and advocacy to advance the movement for equality in New Jersey and nationally. We work tirelessly to ensure the communities we serve experience lived equality.

Garden State Equality is the largest LGBTQIA+ advocacy organization in New Jersey, with over 150,000 members. Established in 2004, we are now one of the most successful statewide LGBTQIA+ civil rights organizations in the nation.

Our services include advocacy, policy work, and training. We work to address safe environments for youth, improvement of health services that meet LGBTQIA+ community needs, and respectful treatment of seniors. Beyond that, Garden State Equality supports New Jersey's activist community by bringing an LGBTQIA+ lens to the shared struggle for justice.

All our current work is informed by racial, economic, and disability justice concerns. We envision a vibrant and diverse Garden State with full equality in the law and LGBTQIA+ residents of all backgrounds experiencing equality in their lives.
Lists events throughout New Jersey to connect the LGBTQIA+ community. Online directory of New Jersey businesses and a support group calendar organized by issues and geographic locations.

GLSEN - The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network
Ensures school students are treated with respect without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity and/or expression. Strives to create school settings that value differences for a powerful and diverse community.
GLSEN - Central Chapter
GLSEN - Southern Chapter

GSA Network
GSA Network is a next-generation LGBTQIA+ racial and gender justice organization that empowers and trains queer, trans and allied youth leaders to advocate, organize, and mobilize an intersectional movement for safer schools and healthier communities. Register you GSA or learn how to start one in your school!

Hudson Pride Center
Hudson Pride was established in the early 1990's to serve as an advocate and social service provider for both the LGBTQIA+ and HIV/AIDS communities in Hudson County at a time when few organizations in our area were willing and able to do so, and more than 25 years later, we continue to deliver a wide array of services, programs, and events to meet their on-going health and social support needs.

HiTOPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fosters strong and healthy young people of all identities by providing inclusive and youth-informed sex education and LGBTQIA+ support for young people throughout New Jersey.

Advocates for LGBTQIA+ Americans, mobilizes grassroots action, and educates the public about LGBTQIA+ issues.

Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscope supports LGBTQIA+/Questioning youth, young adults and their families in building healthy relationships, strong social connections and critically needed life skills. Kaleidescope is located in Bordentown, NJ and offers individual coaching, support groups, parent supports, and mental health services.

Lambda Legal
Founded in 1973, Lambda Legal is the oldest and largest national legal organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we do not charge our clients for legal representation or advocacy, and we receive no government funding. We depend on contributions from supporters around the country.

North Jersey Community research Initiative: LGBTQI Services Project WOW
Offers a drop-in community center for LGBTQI+ youth ages 14-24 in Newark as well as other services. For more information call: (888) 688-9078

Out Montclair
Out Montclair is a nonprofit organization created to raise awareness and provide support and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community of Montclair. We offer educational and charitable activities and events to promote inclusivity and equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, non-binary and gender-fluid youth and adults. Additionally, we are a safe space where our community and our allies can come together and celebrate who we are.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
The PFLAG mission is to build on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQIA+ people and allies who support one another, and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQIA+ people. To find a local chapter visit here: https://pflag.org/find-a-chapter s. There are many local chapters throughout NJ which can be found by visiting pflag.org and clicking on "find a chapter".
PFLAG - Monmouth and Ocean County

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey (PPMNJ)
PPMNJ through the Gender Affirming Care program offers gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) using informed consent for patients 18 years of age and older, providing them with compassionate, validating, and thorough care. This includes medical transitioning as well as linking patients with additional resources to help them be their most authentic selves. In tandem with trained prescribing clinicians, Patient Navigator for Gender Affirming Care, Avery Heimann, (they/them pronouns) assists patients in accessing wraparound services, including a bimonthly virtual GAHT Support Group for patients in the program. As the Navigator for GAHT, Avery also works with patients to make sure their care is as affordable as possible.

The Pride Center of New Jersey
Offers numerous social, supportive, educational, entertaining, and fun events and groups for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The PRIDE Center (Center for Family Services)
Center for Family Services' The PRIDE Center is located in Mercer County for youth and families offering an array of services for LGBTQI+ youth and young adults: Kaleidoscope, The PRIDE Training Institute, NJ PRISM Hotline(844.NJPRISM), Mentoring, Individual, short-term counseling, Group counseling, Support groups for youth and families, Emergency shelter/safe housing, Access to LGBTQIA+ afffirming resources such as therapy, health care, housing and more

PROUD Gender Center of New Jersey
At the Center, a multidisciplinary team of family medicine physicians, gynecologists, urologists, endocrinologists, plastic surgeons and otolaryngologists provides specialized care for LGBTQIA+ patients. Hormone therapy and surgical procedures are offered to support the transition of transgender patients.
Ph: 1-833-BH-PROUD (1-833-247-7683)

QSpot LGBT Community Center
QSpot fosters the health, well-being and pride of NJ's LGBT and allied community by providing resources, referrals, education, and outreach. QSpot works tirelessly to fulfill its mission while operating a safe and welcoming LGBT community center.

Rutgers Center for Transgender Health (RCTH)
The Rutgers Center for Transgender Health is a multidisciplinary center that provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical care for people of the transgender and gender non-binary (TGNB) experience. Our team of expert health professionals offer a compassionate, coordinated approach to gender affirmation.

SAMHSA Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration
Resources on the LGBTQIA+ population include national survey reports, agency and federal initiatives, and related behavioral health resources from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The Trevor Project
Provides information & support to LGBTQIA+ young people 24/7, all year round. Visit The Trevor Project to get more info on how to call, chat, or text with a counselor.

The PRIDE Center (Mercer County)
The PRIDE Center of Mercer County provides an array of services for youth identifying as LGBTQIA+ as well as support for families of LGBTQIA+ youth. Our experienced staff take referrals from schools and other social service providers working with youth who are struggling with mental health challenges, bullying, acceptance and in need of support.

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Friendliest Colleges for LGBTQ+ Students 

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Friendliest Colleges for LGBTQ+ Students 

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Campus Pride | Building LGBTQ-Friendly College Awareness

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Campus Pride is a non-profit organization that creates a safer college environment for LGBTQA+ community. We are here for the students, and by the students.

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Point Foundation LGBTQ Scholarship

Point Foundation each year awards about 20 to 30 new scholarships to students who are "out" as members of the LGBTQ community. The average yearly award is $10,000, and it's renewable for up to four years, says Alex Karas, Point Foundation internship and scholar relations manager. But being a Point Foundation Scholar isn't just about the money - the organization provides recipients with mentorship, leadership training and professional connections.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Scholarships

Known as PFLAG, this nonprofit gives national awards and local scholarships to LGBTQ high school graduating seniors or allies each year. The national awards range from $1,000 to $5,000.

League Foundation LGBTQ Scholarship

The League Foundation gives out seven awards each year to graduating high school seniors who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer.

Gamma Mu Foundation Scholarships

The Gamma Mu Foundation awards scholarships to gay men under age 35 and one award each year to a member of the broader LGBT community. The scholarships typically range from $1,000 to $2,500.

National Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals Scholarships

Known as NOGLSTP, this organization awards two $5,000 scholarships each year to LGBTQ students or active allies who are pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering or math. One award each year goes to an undergraduate student who has already completed at least two years of college and one to a graduate or professional student.

Queer Foundation Queer Scholars Program

This organization awards $1,000 each year to up to three high school seniors selected as winners of the organization's essay contest. If you're selected, you'll have access to mentoring, advising and tutoring through the Queer Foundation, and you're expected to give back by mentoring others or doing community service.

The Association of LGBT Journalists Leroy F. Aarons Scholarship Award

This organization gives up to $5,000 each year to an LGBT undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a journalism career.

Pride Foundation Scholarships

The Pride Foundation awards more than 50 scholarships to LGBTQ students and allies in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington. The average scholarship was $3,250 in 2015, but past recipients have gotten as much as $10,000.

Live Out Loud Educational Scholarship

This New York-based nonprofit awards three $10,000 scholarships each year to graduating LGBTQ high school seniors in New York, Connecticut or New Jersey. The organization looks for students who have been actively involved in their communities - past winners include a student who started a Gay-Straight Alliance school chapter and a student who launched an anti-bullying campaign.

Scholarships, which don't need to be paid back, are an ideal way to pay for college. But it's unlikely that you'll be able to fund the entire cost of tuition through scholarships alone. To be eligible for federal grants, work-study programs and student loans, and some additional scholarships, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as the .

Once you've maxed out all initial payment options, including federal loans, consider private loans to cover additional costs. Private loans tend to carry higher interest rates than federal loans. They also have fewer protections and forgiveness options. Shop around and compare private student loans before choosing a lender.

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Top Scholarships for LGBTQ Students 2020 - NerdWallet

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Point Foundation LGBTQ Scholarship Point Foundation each year awards about 20 to 30 new scholarships to students who are "out" as members of the LGBTQ community. The average yearly award is $10,000, and it's renewable for up to four years, says Alex Karas, Point Foundation internship and scholar relations manager.

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Facts about LGBTQ families.

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Facts about LGBTQ+ Families - Family Equality

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Last Updated June 2020 | Download as a PDF Approximately 4.5% of adults in the U.S. identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ+). That means that there are more than 11.3 million LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. ( Conron, 2019).

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Garden State Equality lifts up the diverse voices of LGBTQ+ communities through education and advocacy to advance the movement for equality in New Jersey and nationally.

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As the nation celebrates Pride Month, the United State Supreme Court gave advocates for justice and equality a welcome but surprising ruling in favor of LGBTQ employment rights. In a landmark 6-3 ruling, the Court ruled on June 15 that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Under Title VII, employees cannot be discriminated against because of race, religion, national origin and sex.

Writing for the court's majority, Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch stated, "An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex. Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what Title VII forbids."

Before this decision it was legal in more than half of the states to fire employees because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. New Jersey was not one of those states. In 1991, the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination was amended to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment, housing and accommodations. In 2006, the New Jersey law was expanded to ban discrimination based on gender identity and expression.

"The Supreme Court finally and rightfully recognized what NJEA has known for decades: that discrimination against LGBTQ persons is wrong," said NJEA President Marie Blistan. "NJEA proudly supported and lobbied legislators in 1991 and 2006 to expand New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination to include sexual orientation and gender identity. But its defense of NJEA members facing discrimination based on LGBTQ+ status long predates those laws, including its representation of Paramus teacher John Gish in 1972, who was fired after he informed his principal that he had been elected president of the Gay Activist Alliance of New Jersey."

"The recent Supreme Court ruling was a big step toward equality and respect, but the work is far from over," said NJEA Vice President Sean M. Spiller. "As a nation we continue to grapple with our institutionalized hatred and biases. We need to work harder than ever to bend the long arc of history toward a more just society for all."

"The Supreme Court's decision bolsters the work we are doing here in New Jersey to develop an inclusive curriculum that accurately portrays the political, economic, and social contributions of LGBTQ+ persons," said NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Steve Beatty. "I'm proud to be part of NJEA, an organization that stands for justice and equity for people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity."

In recognition of June as LGBTQ Pride month and in celebration of the Supreme Court's decision, NJEA's officers shared these video messages:

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During Pride Month, NJEA celebrates SCOTUS ruling " New Jersey Education Association

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As the nation celebrates Pride Month, the United State Supreme Court gave advocates for justice and equality a welcome but surprising ruling in favor of LGBTQ employment rights. In a landmark 6-3 ruling, the Court ruled on June 15 that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

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Information for LGBTQ educators.

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Education news, analysis, and opinion about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer students or teachers and their experiences in school.

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Support Groups

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Safe Place is a national program that provides on-site case management and support to youth ages 12-17 to find a safe place to sleep, including transportation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. King and Snohomish counties have safe place programs that can collaborate if a minor is in Snohomish and needs to go to King, and visa versa. For a list of all Safe Place locations, visit https://www.nationalsafeplace.org/where-is-safe-place

Safe Place can also provide information and support to young adults (18+) or other agency staff over the phone, but cannot meet adults in person or provide transportation.

Text "SAFE" and your current address/location to 4HELP (44357) for the nearest Safe Place site where you can wait safely for a Safe Place staffer or call 1-800-422-TEEN (8336)

New Horizons provides food, showers, laundry, case management, and medical services to youth ages 13-25, and shelter to youth ages 18-25.
https://nhmin.org/need-help/
ROOTS provides provides food, showers, laundry, clothing, case management, and shelter to youth ages 18-25.
https://www.rootsinfo.org/services/shelter/
YouthCare provides drop-in services and shelter for youth 12-24. Other services include meals, computers, showers, laundry, clothing, case management, and more.
https://youthcare.org/get-help/
Teen Feed provides dinners for teens in the University District, at different locations, seven days a week, along with other supportive services for homeless teens & youth.
http://www.teenfeed.org/programs/
YMCA Social Impact Center has Resources for individuals, families, schools, and partners including behavioral, mental, and emotional support for all ages; a safe place for all youth and young adults; foster care and family reunification; support for youth and young adult development.
https://www.seattleymca.org/social-impact-center
Seattle Area Emergency Food Resource Map is an interactive map compiled by the City of Seattle Human Resources Department, including school food pick up locations, and food resources inside and outside of Seattle.
https://public.tableau.com/profile/city.of.seattle.human.services#!/vizhome/Covid-19Seattle-AreaEmergencyFoodResources/COVIDEmergencyFood
Seattle Hygiene and Bathroom Resource Map is compiled by the City of Seattle Human Services Department and includes resources within the City of Seattle.
http://www.seattle.gov/humanservices/services-and-programs/addressing-homelessness#hygiene https://www.seattleymca.org/accelerator/

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Online Programs & Resources - Lambert House

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Safe Place is a national program that provides on-site case management and support to youth ages 12-17 to find a safe place to sleep, including transportation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. King and Snohomish counties have safe place programs that can collaborate if a minor is in Snohomish and needs to go to King, and visa versa.

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Crisis Intervention from the Trevor Project. 

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Crisis Intervention from the Trevor Project. 

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The Trevor Project offers accredited life-saving, life-affirming programs and services to LGBTQ youth that create safe, accepting and inclusive environments over the phone, online and through text.

Crisis Interventions

Trevor Lifeline-The only national 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ young people under 25, available at 1-866-488-7386.

TrevorChat-A free, confidential, secure instant messaging service for LGBTQ youth that provides live help from trained volunteer counselors, open daily.

TrevorText-A free, confidential, secure service in which LGBTQ young people can text a trained Trevor counselor for support and crisis intervention, available daily by texting START to 678-678.

Suicide Prevention Trainings and Resources

Trevor Lifeguard Workshop-The Lifeguard Workshop is a free online learning module based on The Trevor Project's in-person workshop, which is listed in the SPRC/AFSP Best Practice Registry for Suicide Prevention. The Lifeguard Workshop webpage includes a video, a curriculum guide, lesson plans, and additional resources for educators.

Trevor CARE Training-This training for adults provides an introduction to suicide prevention techniques based on Trevor's CARE model (Connect, Accept, Respond, Empower).

Trevor Ally Training-This training introduces adults to the unique needs of LGBTQ youth.

LGBTQ on Campus-These online, interactive training simulations for students and faculty in higher education are AFSP/SPRC Best Practices for Suicide Prevention and were created in partnership with Kognito Interactive and Campus Pride.

Step-In, Speak-Up-These online, interactive training simulations for faculty and staff working with youth in Grades 6-12 are AFSP/SPRC Best Practices for Suicide Prevention and were created in partnership with Kognito Interactive.

Model School District Policy for Suicide Prevention-A roadmap to help school leaders easily navigate ways to bring suicide prevention policies and resources to their schools, developed in collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the American School Counselor Association, and the National Association of School Psychologists.

Coming Out: A Handbook for LGBTQ Young People-A resource that covers a wide range of topics to support LGBTQ young people in exploring what coming out safely can mean for them. The handbook includes:

Trevor Support Center - A resource where LGBTQ youth and their allies can find answers to frequently asked questions, and explore resources related to sexual orientation, gender identity and more.

PSAs-Our current public service announcements, "Ask for Help," are available free of charge for TV, radio, website, social media, and print use.

Community Resources

TrevorSpace-A social networking community for LGBTQ youth ages 13 through 24 and their friends and allies.

Trevor Ambassadors-Local volunteer groups in select U.S. cities (Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.)

Trevor NextGen-Groups of young, motivated volunteers in New York and Los Angeles who raise awareness, develop leadership, advocate, and fundraise in support of The Trevor Project's life-saving, life-affirming work.

Trevor Youth Advisory Council-This group of 20 young advocates, ages 16-24 from around the country, are trained by The Trevor Project to raise awareness about LGBTQ youth, mental health, and suicide prevention in their communities.

Trevor Advocacy Network-A way for Trevor supporters to take action to improve policies and legislation that protect LGBTQ youth.
If you are thinking about suicide, you deserve immediate support. Please call The Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386.

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Programs & Services - The Trevor Project

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The Trevor Project offers accredited life-saving, life-affirming programs and services to LGBTQ youth that create safe, accepting and inclusive environments over the phone, online and through text. Trevor Lifeline -The only national 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ young people under 25, available at 1-866-488-7386.

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HiTOPS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fosters strong and healthy young people of all identities by providing inclusive and youth-informed sex education and LGBTQ+ support for young people throughout New Jersey.

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Reading, Resources and Sources

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GLAAD | GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance.

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EqualityResources For transgender people and families with transgender kids: Download the TLDEF "Know Your Rights" guidance. Join Families for Trans Equality. Share your experience in the U.S. Trans Survey. For supporters: What do nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ Americans mean? Bust myths about transgender people.

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GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love.

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GLAAD | GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance.

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GLAAD is a non-profit LGBTQ advocacy organization focused on cultural change to ensure fair, accurate, and inclusive representation to advance LGBTQ acceptance.

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NJ Curriculum Legislation about LGBTQ teaching 

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NJ Curriculum Legislation about LGBTQ teaching 

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Helping the family support their children.

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What's Next?

We are dedicated to helping parents find a path forward. Here are three easy ways to get started.

Read This First

Helpful, factual information about this experience for parents and youth.

Helping Your Child

Positive suggestions for navigating this change in your family.

Challenges Ahead

Managing emotions, dealing with relationships, telling others, and tough questions.

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We are dedicated to helping parents find a path forward. Here are three easy ways to get started. Read This First Helpful, factual information about this experience for parents and youth. Helping Your Child Positive suggestions for navigating this change in your family. Challenges Ahead Managing emotions, dealing with relationships, telling others, and tough questions.

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Coming out to your parents. (Strong Family Alliance)

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Coming out to your parents. (Strong Family Alliance)

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Before we share more with you — know this:

You are supported.

You matter.

You are loved.

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We get many visitors to this page and we are so glad you're here.
We built this website for you and your family. We want your family to understand you and to realize that it's OK that you're gay - or trans or queer. Really.

This journey is going to be interesting to navigate. For some of you, your family is open to the news that you are gay. For others, the thought of coming out to your family is really, really hard.

Before we share more with you - know this:

This site is a safe place for you and your parents. Please share it with them.

You've decided to come out to your parents.

With some people in your life, telling them you're gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer will feel casual and easy, while with others the conversation may feel like a game-changer. This page offers ideas for coming out to parents, because this usually feels like one of those "big deal" moments. But these tips can help you think through how talk to anyone about your sexual orientation or gender identity, whether at work, school or with friends.

One question we ask parents on this is, "knowing what you know today, would you want your child to 'stay in the closet'?" The answer over and over is "No." But that doesn't mean there was no struggle before getting to acceptance.

As the person coming out, you've been thinking about your LGBTQ identity for years, but it can take time for parents to adjust. The good news is that being honest and real with your parents can build a better relationship - eventually. And you will feel relieved no matter what. The bad news is that coming out can be tough, and there's stress knowing the conversation can go many ways. This page shares ideas about how to come out, responses depending on how people react and resources for both you and your parents.

Think ahead about how you want to come out.

Here are some things to think about before you tell, as well as a script help you have the conversation and some ways to handle your parents' (and others') reactions.
Plan for safety, and anticipate consequences. Have a backup plan.

If you are living with your parents, or are financially dependent, consider the risks before you come out to your parents. What is the worst case scenario? Will you need a place to stay? Will you be able to support yourself if needed? Will you be physically safe?

If your worst case scenario is really bad, this may not be the time.

If you are living apart from parents and are financially independent, this is less of a consideration.

Keep in mind that your parents are in a different place than you on this path.

You've been thinking about this for a while, but it may be a surprise to your parents. They will need time, just as you have, to adjust to this news. Most parents go through stages similar to suffering a loss, and they must process this news. It may take a long time for them to become accepting and supportive as they adjust and change their view of the family and your future.
Get ready for a wide range of reactions.

Your parents could be relieved, understanding, loving, affectionate and supportive when you come out. Or, they could be shocked, sad, confused, angry or condemning. Or anything in between. Their reaction in this conversation will not be their final reaction, no matter how positive or negative it is. It will change over time.
Choose the right time.

Things will be easier if your relationship with your parent is in a good place when you come out and you are not in arguments about other things.

Listen to your instincts about when they are ready to know.

Choose a moment that is private, calm and not rushed.

Keep it short. If the conversation becomes too intense or emotional, it is OK to end it.

This is the first conversation; there will be many. You probably will not be able to answer every question, comfort every concern, resolve every worry on day one.

Remember, the goal is to share your news and communicate that you are telling them because you love and respect them and want to be honest.

Plan what you will say.

Sharing difficult news is challenging. Our script gives you ideas of the words to say. Consider writing down thoughts before you have this conversation.

Have a script to come out to your parents.

1. Prepare or Warn

"I want to tell you something"

"I need to talk to you when you get home tonight about something."

"Do you have time to talk? I've got something on my mind."

2. Empathize or Predict

"You might not like it."

"You might be surprised."

"This is hard for me to say and might be hard for you to hear.."

3. Ask for what you need

"Could you just hear me out?"

"Please don't freak out."

"I need you to keep this between us until I'm ready."

4. Tell your truth

"I'm gay/bisexual/pansexual/lesbian/transgender/queer"

"I'm attracted to (or not attracted to) ..."

"I've always felt/known..."

"I'm dating/want to date/in a relationship with..."

5. Speak from the heart

"This is really hard for me because it is so personal."

"It has been so difficult hiding who I really am."

"I haven't said this before because..."

"I want to have a good relationship with you and be honest."

"I want you to know I've thought about this for years/months/forever."

"I've been afraid to tell you for so long."

"Please know I'm sharing this because I love and respect you."

"I don't want to lie to you."

6. Choose an exit

"I don't want to go into a big thing right now, but I did want to tell you"

"I'd like to talk more about it after you have some time"

"I don't want to talk about this but I wanted you to know"

"I can't answer all your questions but I wanted to tell you"

"I can see you're upset, so I want to give you some time"

"I love you and I'm relieved that you know"

How to respond if...

Things go well.
Communicate love and appreciation.

"I love you so much."

"Being honest is important to me; it's been hard to keep this from you."

"Thank you for..."

Your parent has questions, is confused, is worried.
Empathize and offer information.

"I've been thinking about this a long time; I know it will take you some time"

"I can tell you whatever you want to know."

"I don't have all the answers."

"There are some resources for parents that can tell you more than I can. I'll share them."

Your parent is angry, upset or condemning.
Reassure, set a boundary, or end the conversation.

"I know you're worried/angry, but I still love you."

"I'm still the same kid you've always known."

"I need your help."

"I hope you will always love and accept me for who I am."

"I hope you change your mind."

"I know you're angry, I don't want to keep fighting."

"'I'm leaving, but I will be back for dinner."

"I need to step away from this conversation now, but we can come back to it later."

"I'm going take a break/I need to stop for now."

Resources for your parents

It may be helpful to know many initial reactions stem from fear and misinformation - fear of what you will face in society, fear they may have done something wrong as a parent, fear of what others will think of them or you, as well as the enormous amount of misinformation around LGBTQ.

You may not be able to answer all their questions, and you also deserve to preserve some privacy about your feelings and activities. But they will need good information and guidance, and you can help them find it.

Providing resources can take many forms: a conversation, a list, a text (or several), an email, a book, a conversation with an accepting family member you trust who might talk with them. If they seem open, you may be able to share resources quickly, or you may want to wait till later when things cool down, or even share a "drip campaign" of resources over time.

There are several excellent resources for you and for parents, but their approaches vary greatly. Some of the best are quite political and may not be the best first step. Review options while thinking of your parents' perspective, and then choose what to recommend.
Non-Political Resources for Parents

Strongfamilyalliance.org - This website provides accurate information, insights, research and encouragement for parents, focused on helping them gain understanding and balance. Especially helpful for parents who just learned your identity and/or who are struggling.

Parent Support Guide - We provide a 5-part Parent Guide delivered through email once a week. It presents information and guidance to parents in manageable segments that can help them learn more and find their new balance. They can subscribe - or you could use it as a 'drip' campaign if they are open to the idea.

Family Acceptance Project - Dr. Caitlin Ryan's research with lesbian, gay, and bisexual young adults, includes booklets and videos for families about how to support a child who has just come out (as well as ramifications if they aren't accepting).

Freedhearts.org - Focused on Christian or Evangelical parents, helpful for finding support and reconciling faith issues.

Faith-based Organizations - Almost every denomination or faith has groups that support LGBTQ. Find a link in this list that might help your parents reconcile faith concerns.

So Your Child Just Came Out - Two-minute animated video for parents.

Lead with Love - An excellent 35-minute documentary focused on the struggle of parents to accept their child and the benefits of leading with love. It addresses many parent struggles and questions through the voices of parents, youth and researchers.

Anyone and Everyone - A film featuring parents from a wide range of religions, ethnicities, and political leanings, all of whom discuss their initial reactions to their child's coming out. While some showed unconditional support, others struggled with their child's sexual orientation, fearing alienation from their extended family, their church, or their community. (57 min.)

Centers for Disease Control Resources on LGBTQ Health - This page introduces risks and health issues and links to many more resources.

Our Most Visited Pages
Below are some of the pages parents visit most on our website. If your parents are receptive, these might be good as part of a "drip" campaign - sending helpful information to them over time.

Political Resources for Parents
These are great resources, but the main websites are often quite political. If your parents are conservative or not accepting, we suggest you send them to the direct links below, rather than to the main websites.

Resources for you

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Coming Out to Your Parents - Strong Family Alliance

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We get many visitors to this page and we are so glad you're here. We built this website for you and your family. We want your family to understand you and to realize that it's OK that you're gay - or trans or queer. Really. This journey is going to be interesting to navigate.

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Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign is to ensure that every LGBTQ person is free to live their life openly, with their equal rights ensured.

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Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign is to ensure that every LGBTQ+ person is free to live their life openly, with their equal rights ensured. We know that goal requires that we keep educating, supporting and inspiring ourselves and each other. In the spirit of that continual growth, we've compiled information and advice on a range of topics, including resources from the HRC Foundation.

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Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign is to ensure that every LGBTQ+ person is free to live their life openly, with their equal rights ensured. We know that goal requires that we keep educating, supporting and inspiring ourselves and each other.

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By being an ally, you help to increase awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Equally important, you also show them that they aren’t alone in their struggle for equality, inclusion, and acceptance.

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Imagine feeling confused, isolated and not accepted for who you are and who you know you are supposed to be. Now more than ever, it is critical that we support and ally for LGBTQ youth. By being an ally, you help to increase awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Equally important, you also show them that they aren't alone in their struggle for equality, inclusion, and acceptance.

Here are some ways you can support LGBTQ youth along their journey:

Listen to LGBTQ Youth.

Members of the LGBTQ community, and youth especially, are often not given the respect they deserve when it comes to having their voices heard. This has to change. Be willing to listen to LGBTQ youth and pay close attention to what they are telling you, whether it is in person or second hand via social media or the news. They know what they want, what their needs are, and how they are feeling more than anyone. Listen with compassion. Listen without judgment.

Be a role model for kindness, inclusion, and support.

It is crucial that we model kindness and inclusion in our everyday life. Go out of your way to be kind and always see the worth and dignity in every person. Strive for justice, equality, and compassion in human relations. It can be very difficult for LGBTQ youth to open up to you, but when they do, offer your support. Ask them what you can do to help them if help is needed. Maybe they haven't opened up yet to their parents or other family members. Offer support because what they have to face and the conversations they'll need to have could be challenging. Knowing they have your support could make all the difference to them.

Be respectful.

Just because they may have opened up to you doesn't mean you have the right to "out" them to others. It is not up to you as to who they entrust themselves with. Instead, respect their privacy and their wishes.

Show young people that they can be authentic around you.

Being a young person in today's society is hard enough, and add in the fact that you're "different," and it suddenly becomes even harder than it already is; this is the case for our LGBTQ youth. They often feel that they have to act like something they aren't around others because of fearing that they won't be accepted for who they are. Can you imagine the feeling of constantly wondering if it's okay to be yourself around another person or if you have to be someone else? It's unacceptable that LGBTQ youth still have to ask themselves this question almost every single day. So as an ally, it's our job to make sure that they know they can always be themselves around us.

Stand up for them.

Imagine if you were being bullied, how alone and afraid you might feel. LGBTQ youth are at a much higher risk of experiencing bullying and harassment. Please be their ally and stand up for them (if it's safe to do so), and report the incident to the appropriate people. Educate yourself on how to identify homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. These phobias are quite prevalent in our society, so be prepared when you witness it by developing strategies to challenge those phobias and share your strategies with others.

Stay Informed.

Take it upon yourself to educate yourself about the LGBTQ community. One easy but really important way that you can be an ally is to use LGBTQ-related terminology in the correct way and with respect. Terminology today goes beyond 'gay,' 'lesbian,' 'bisexual,' 'transgender,' and 'queer.' Learn terminology like 'gender non-conforming,' 'androgynous,' 'non-binary,' and 'two-spirit.' Don't be afraid to ask someone how they would like to be referred, especially when it comes to the use of pronouns, such as he, she, and they. You may look at someone and automatically think they identify as male or female based on how they appear, but please don't make this assumption. Language has a significant impact on people, so to be an ally, help to ensure that language has a positive impact by staying current with LGBTQ terminology and asking pronouns.

Take action and advocate for the LGBTQ youth.

Work with LGBTQ youth to make their lives better. If they want to get more involved within their community, help them plan and lead youth-focused events, and be the rock they need. Provide them the tools, resources, and support they need to have their voices heard. Also, take action by challenging policies that discriminate or limit LGBTQ youth that you may see in your community, whether that's in schools, workplaces, or other public places. Or, get involved with advocacy organizations, such as Free2Luv.

Influence others.

Consider the opportunities you have to share your support. Have conversations with family, friends, colleagues, or other peers; use social media to educate and influence others; invite and encourage people to attend LGBTQ rallies and other events. By you speaking out, you are amplifying the LGBTQ youths' voice - always ensure they are heard!

Thank you for taking steps to become an ally for LGBTQ youth. The more people on the side of love and justice, the better. If we join together in support, one day, hopefully, we'll be able to say that we live in a world where we are all treated with love, dignity, and respect.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, " Our goal is to create a beloved community and this will require a qualitative change in our souls as well as a quantitative change in our lives." So let us all work together hand in hand and make it so.

We invite you to join us and support our LGBTQ youth empowerment initiatives. Together we can change lives.

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How to be an Ally for LGBTQ Youth - Free2Luv

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Imagine feeling confused, isolated and not accepted for who you are and who you know you are supposed to be. Now more than ever, it is critical that we support and ally for LGBTQ youth. By being an ally, you help to increase awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ community.

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The Pride Center offers a great deal of Support Groups.

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Support Groups

The Pride Center offers a variety of peer support groups where individuals discuss their experiences and challenges in a supportive environment. The discussions provide the opportunity to share and learn from others' experiences and help build a sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance to improve the quality of life. These groups of 'like-minded' people also serve as a support 'network of friends' which often leads to social opportunities at the Center and beyond. There is a suggested donation for group participation.

Please check the calendar for details and current dates and times.

Rainbow Support & Empowerment Network

Group Name: Rainbow Support and Empowerment Network

Group Meeting Schedule: Second Thursday, 12:00-1:00pm EST and 7:00-8:00pm EST

Group Status: Virtual

Group Type: Support

Group Leaders: Tina Maschi

Group Leader Email: tmaschi59@yahoo.com

Group Description: The Rainbow Support and Empowerment Network is a grassroots volunteer network that provides empowerment and support for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. It is an inclusive and intersectional community-based volunteer- and peer-led collaborative. We engage together in activities that include "edutainment" events, group circles, and activities that include engaging in contemplative activism. Volunteer peer support and mentors facilitate personal, relational, and community growth, empowerment, trauma transcendence, and resilience gatherings. Activities and groups have included LGBTQIA+ parents and intergenerational women.

Suggested Donation: $5.00 (Venmo: PrideCenter-ofNJ)

Mental Health Q&A Sessions

Group Name: Mental Health Q&A
Group Meeting Schedule: Every Other Friday, 9:15-9:45am EST
Group Status: Virtual
Group Type: Support
Group Leaders: Jacob Max Winkler
Group Leader Email:
Group Description: For information on free Mental Health Q&A sessions, please reach out to Jacob Max Winkler ().
Suggested Donation: $5.00 (Venmo: PrideCenter-ofNJ)

TrueBrothers

Group Name: TrueBrothers

Group Meeting Schedule: TBD

Group Status: Virtual/TBD

Group Type: Support

Group Leaders: Sonny Quiat

Group Leader Email: truebrotherspcnj@gmail.com

Group Description: TrueBrothers is a peer-based group supporting individuals leaning towards a trans-masculine gender identity. Whether you might be questioning your gender, or you're already taking steps to feel more aligned with your gender, this group is geared towards expressing and supporting the experiences of both binary transgender men and non-binary trans-masculine individuals.

Suggested Donation: $5.00 (Venmo: PrideCenter-ofNJ)

Group Name: The InterseQtion

Group Meeting Schedule: Second and Fourth Thursday, 7:00-9:00pm EST

Group Status: Virtual

Group Type: Support

Group Leaders: Sarah Shaw and Tara Sosa

Group Leader Email: theinterseqtion@gmail.com

Group Description: InterseQtion is a social discussion group for all queer women of color and non-binary people of color to find community and support with those who might share similar queer, racial, and cultural intersectionalities. We discuss everything from current events and shared experiences to your latest TV binge, all through a QWOC/NBPOC perspective. Come chill and spill the tea with us! For more information, check out The InterseQtion's Facebook page.

Suggested Donation: $5.00 (Venmo: PrideCenter-ofNJ)

The InterseQtion

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Support Groups The Pride Center offers a variety of peer support groups where individuals discuss their experiences and challenges in a supportive environment. The discussions provide the opportunity to share and learn from others' experiences and help build a sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance to improve the quality of life.

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The mission of The Pride Center is to provide a safe and welcoming space for all individuals who identify as LGBTQ.

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The original, the official and still the best website for the Garden State GLBT community. We've been at it since 1997! We count cyber years like dog years, so that's a l-o-n-g time!

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Thanks to The Pride Center for these primary health care resources. Stay healthy, everyone!

Click here for info >>
NJGayLife.com is the place on the web for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people in New Jersey.

More than 4000 people visit njgaylife.com every week for up-to-the-minute information about our community in the Garden State. How do you stay connected?

Find information we list for free for more than 100 NJ GLBT organizations

Search our interactive calendar for meetings, concerts, dances, and other events

Take action on important issues

Find LGBT-owned and LGBT-friendly businesses and professionals in our extensive Business & Services Directory

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NJGayLife.com keeps the NJ LGBT Community Connected! - NJGayLife.com keeps the NJ LGBT Community Connected!

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Thanks to The Pride Center for these primary health care resources. Stay healthy, everyone! Click here for info >> NJGayLife.com is the place on the web for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people in New Jersey. More than 4000 people visit njgaylife.com every week for up-to-the-minute information about our community in the Garden State.

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LGBTQ+ individuals and families that experience social connections, form meaningful relationships, and learn more emotional and psychological skills experience less depression, anxiety, and overall negative mental health impacts.

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Encircle | An LGBTQ+ Youth & Family Resource

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We're Building 8 New Homes in Four States

With the goal of raising $8 million, Apple, Qualtrics founder and Utah Jazz owners Ryan and Ashley Smith, and lead singer of Imagine Dragons Dan Reynolds and his wife, recording artist Aja Volkman have all partnered together to give a total of $4 million.

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Encircle | An LGBTQ+ Youth & Family Resource

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With the goal of raising $8 million, Apple, Qualtrics founder and Utah Jazz owners Ryan and Ashley Smith, and lead singer of Imagine Dragons Dan Reynolds and his wife, recording artist Aja Volkman have all partnered together to give a total of $4 million.

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Visiting Nurse Health Center

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The LGBTQ Health Center accepts Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance and self-pay. We also provide a "sliding fee" scale to assist under or uninsured patients in need. Specialized services, such as preventive health screenings are available to clients who designate the LGBTQ CHC as their primary health care provider.

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VNACJ LGBTQ+ Health Center - PRN Organization

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The LGBTQ Health Center accepts Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance and self-pay. We also provide a "sliding fee" scale to assist under or uninsured patients in need. Specialized services, such as preventive health screenings are available to clients who designate the LGBTQ CHC as their primary health care provider.

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When educators are visibly supportive of LGBTQ students, everyone benefits. GLSEN offers tools and resources to thousands of educators who seek to make their classrooms and schools a safe place for all students. .

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In this statement, GLSEN's National Student Council condemns police brutality and calls for greater support for Black lives

Read the Statement

Get involved and join your community, local, or state GLSEN chapter

GLSEN Chapters create LGBTQ-inclusive schools. Community-led chapters offer teacher trainings, student support, community outreach, and more.

Recent Research

Research, Reports, and Briefs

Research, Reports, and Briefs

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In this statement, GLSEN's National Student Council condemns police brutality and calls for greater support for Black lives Read the Statement GLSEN Chapters create LGBTQ-inclusive schools. Community-led chapters offer teacher trainings, student support, community outreach, and more. Research, Reports, and Briefs Research, Reports, and Briefs

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Training for Youth- Serving Professionals 

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Training for Youth- Serving Professionals 

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Trevor Ally Training

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Trevor Ally Trainings and Trevor CARE Trainings are designed for adults who work with youth. Trevor CARE Trainings and Ally Trainings are available in-person for your staff.

Trevor Ally Trainings
The Trevor Ally Program help adults learn about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth people, the specific risks and challenges they face and how they can become an "ally" by knowing valuable resources and strategies.

Trevor CARE Trainings
The Trevor CARE Trainings help adults who work with youth learn to "Connect, Accept, Respond and Empower" (CARE) young people in crisis. This training discusses LGBTQ-specific risk factors for suicide, explores protective factors that can lower these risks and how to help youth get the support they need.

If you are interested in learning more about training cost and scheduling, please email us at [email protected] .

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Trainings for Youth-Serving Professionals - The Trevor Project

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Trevor Ally Trainings and Trevor CARE Trainings are designed for adults who work with youth. Trevor CARE Trainings and Ally Trainings are available in-person for your staff. Trevor Ally Trainings The Trevor Ally Program help adults learn about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth people, the specific risks and challenges they face and how they can become an "ally" by knowing valuable resources and strategies.

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If you are thinking about suicide and in need of immediate support, please call the TrevorLifeline at or select TrevorChat below to connect with a [...]