SMYAL supports & empowers LGBTQ+ youth.

We actively work to create a world where queer and trans youth thrive through affirming programs and services designed to develop critical life skills, build community, and foster a sense of belonging.

Youth Services

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From community-building programs to scholarships, we’ve got your back.

Affirming Therapy

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Connect to affirming, empowering, and accessible mental health counseling. 

You are not alone.

Housing Support

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If you’re looking for affirming housing support, you’re in the right place.

Empower LGBTQ+ Youth to Thrive

Since our founding in 1984, SMYAL has provided LGBTQ+ with safe, affirming, and empowering spaces where they can be fully themselves. And while the needs of LGBTQ+ youth have evolved over the last four decades, SMYAL’s dynamic work to best support young people has also evolved to meet the moment.

Our services are made possible by the generous contributions of our community.

Help SMYAL continue to make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth.

Upcoming Event

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 | MARRIOTT MARQUIS | 10:30 AM

 

SMYAL’s 40th Anniversary Fall Brunch

Tickets are now on sale to join us at SMYAL’s Fall Brunch in celebration of our 40th Anniversary!

SMYAL’s premier supporter event, the annual Fall Brunch, includes a cocktail reception featuring a fabulous silent auction, a three-course brunch, and a chance to hear from some of our community’s most inspiring leaders.

Every year, the Fall Brunch brings together LGBTQ+ and allied community members, friends, and families in support of the inspirational youth SMYAL works with every day.

SMYAL Social Media

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SMYAL supports and empowers LGBTQ+ youth. We actively work to create a world where queer and trans youth thrive through affirming programs and services designed to develop critical life skills, build community, and foster a sense of belonging.

1 day ago

SMYAL
SMYAL is now on Bluesky!We will be using our Bluesky account to share different ways to support SMYAL, resources for the queer community, ways to support queer youth, and more!Follow us now on Bluesky at @smyal.bsky.social and stay tuned for more updates! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 days ago

SMYAL
Have a birthday this month? Turn your special day into a force for good by setting up a Facebook or Instagram fundraiser for SMYAL. It only takes a few minutes to make a big impact – check out our toolkit to get started: bit.ly/SMYALBday ... See MoreSee Less
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3 days ago

SMYAL
Happy Trans Day of Visibility!Despite the attacks on the trans community by legislation and dangerous anti-trans rhetoric, the trans community persists, because trans people have always been here and they are not going anywhere.Trans and gender-diverse youth are the heart of the trans community, and while we continue to protect and defend them so they may grow up to be beautiful trans adults, we must also champion and uplift them. We should be there to celebrate the highs and pick them up from the lows. We should enjoy the little things in life right alongside them.This is our moment to show trans and nonbinary youth they’re not alone. That there is a community behind them—loud, proud, and unshakable.How will YOU take action to celebrate the trans community and trans youth this TDOV? ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
SMYAL partners with schools across DC, Maryland, and Virginia to foster safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students from elementary school through college. SMYAL’s in-school support offers flexible options tailored to meet the unique needs of schools, educators, students, and administrators.If you are interested in working with SMYAL to provide short or long-term support for your school, please visit SMYAL.org/Education to learn how to connect with us. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
📣 APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN: SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LGBTQ+ STUDENT LEADERS🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈SMYAL’s scholarships recognize outstanding and unapologetic LGBTQ+ student leaders who have demonstrated personal growth and a commitment to creating change in their school or community.SMYAL's scholarships provide up to $5,000 of financial support to offset the costs of continuing one’s education. Scholarships are open to youth who will have graduated high school or completed a GED by Spring 2025, and will start their next educational program in Fall 2025.There are two scholarships available through one application:✊🏾YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARDS🎨 SOPHIE’S LIVE OUT LOUD AWARD⚠️ Applications are due MAY 24TH, 2025 ⚠️To apply, visit smyal.org/scholarship or click the link in our bioQuestions? Reach out to [email protected] for more information. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
Are you looking for resources to help you support your rainbow child?MOSAIC is a support group for parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth facilitated by therapists at SMYAL.Mosaic provides a safe space for parents to learn how to de-stigmatize and normalize their children’s experiences. It also offers tools to negotiate your child’s safety, well-being, and healthy development within the family.🎟️ MOSAIC is free and takes place virtually on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm ET through May 13th.Registration is REQUIRED to join all MOSAIC Support Groups. If you are interested in joining, please reach out to [email protected] or visit SMYAL.org/ClinicalServices. ... See MoreSee Less
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