The Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL) is the only Washington, DC metro area service organization solely dedicated to supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Founded in 1984, SMYAL is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Our mission is to promote and support self-confident, healthy, productive lives for LGBTQ youth as they journey from adolescence into adulthood. To fulfill our mission, we concentrate our commitment and energy on five focus areas: (1) Life Skills & Leadership Development, (2) Counseling & Support, (3) Health & Wellness Education, (4) Safe Social Activities, and (5) Community Outreach and Education.

Join SMYAL's E-mail List!
Want to join SMYAL's mailing list to receive our newsletters and information about upcoming events? Just give us your email below!

SMYAL Announces Andrew Barnett as New Executive Director

After an extensive search, the Board of Directors of the Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League (SMYAL) today announced the appointment of Andrew Barnett as the organization’s new Executive Director. Barnett enters the position with an in-depth understanding of the issues facing DC area lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, extensive knowledge of the organization, and a passion for empowering and supporting LGBTQ youth in their journeys to adulthood. Click here to read more!

SMYAL's 11th Annual Fall Brunch Breaks Record for Fundraising and Attendance!
Thank you to all of our supporters for making our 11th Annual Fall Brunch our most successful ever, grossing more than $140,000! Please visit our Fall Brunch web page to see a complete listing of our Sponsors and Table Leaders.

Also, save the date: on Sunday, September 20, 2009 we will return to Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C. for our 25th Anniversary Fall Brunch! For more information, please contact Director of Development Kelly Simon.

Volunteer at SMYAL!
Are you interested in supporting the next generation of LGBTQ youth as they navigate through the difficulties of adolescence? SMYAL's Youth Center is actively seeking new volunteers to work with SMYAL staff to facilitate programs and plan fun and rewarding activities for youth!

To sign up or to learn more about volunteering at SMYAL, contact Andrew Barnett.