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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.

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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

SMYAL

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.

SMYAL

6 days ago

SMYAL
March is Bi+ Health Awareness Month!It is important to recognize that Bi+ individuals face their own set of health challenges. Bi+ Health Awareness Month raises awareness about the bisexual+ (bi, pansexual, fluid, queer, etc.) community’s social, economic and health disparities; advocates for resources; and inspires actions to improve bi+ people’s well-being.The health of the queer and trans community as a collective is crucial, and this includes our Bi+ friends and family.For any Bi+ individuals looking for a place to start with their health, take a moment to scroll through the slides for where you can find some resources.Happy Bi+ Awareness Month! ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
Looking to add a little queer excellence to your resume? SMYAL has scholarship and leadership opportunities for queer students!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.If you're interested in applying for one of our scholarships or participating in our leadership opportunities, visit SMYAL.org/Scholarships! ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
📢 ACTION ALERT: Protect Trans Passport Access!The U.S. Department of State is trying to limit trans people’s ability to update their passports. We must act now! Submit your comment to stop these discriminatory changes: transequality.org/news/freedom-fly-passport-access-action #FreedomToFly🚀 3 Steps to Take Action:1️⃣ Submit a comment on DS-82 (Passport Renewal)2️⃣ Submit a comment on DS-5504 (Name Change & Corrections)3️⃣ Submit a comment on DS-11 (First-Time Passport Application)Comment now: transequality.org/news/freedom-fly-passport-access-action ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
Our In's and Out's for International Women's Day 2025:IN:-Bodily autonomy-Reproductive rights-Equal Pay and opportunity-Trans-inclusive spaces, events, and sports-Taking up spaceOUT:-TERFS 🤢-Misogyny-Exclusionary practices-Policing bathrooms-Barring trans athletes from playing-Gender essentialismAt the end of the day, girls just wanna have FUNdamental human rights.Spaces for women are spaces for ALL women. This means trans women, BIPOC women, lesbians, bi+ women, ASPEC women, fluid women, masc women, femme women, neurodivergent women, women experiencing homelessness, disabled women, queer women, and all those who identify with experiences of womanhood. We all belong in community together.#internationalwomensday #WomensHistoryMonth ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL

3 weeks ago

SMYAL
Interested in finding queer peers, doing fun activities and making friends in a safe space? Check out our teen and young adult programs for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-24. We offer both in-person and virtual programs.Go to SMYAL.org/TeenPrograms to sign up for a welcome session today and learn more about upcoming programs! ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL

3 weeks ago

SMYAL
"Walking into a therapy session can trigger a medley of questions for members of the community...There are so many therapists — but you never know walking into a session, 'is this person going to see me fully? Are they safe? Can I trust them?'"SMYAL's Play Therapist, Matresa Flowers, talked to Axios about the importance of providing affirming mental health care for LGBTQ+ youth as they navigate harmful and hateful executive orders. Learn more about the @trevorproject's findings from their 2024 Youth Mental Health Survey and how organizations like SMYAL are removing barriers to accessing affirming therapy.Read the full @axios article at the link in our bio! ... See MoreSee Less

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SMYAL has supported and empowered LGBTQ+ youth for 40 years.

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