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

rainbow_dots

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

Affirming Therapy

rainbow_dots

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

You are not alone.

Housing Support

rainbow_dots

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

Cover for SMYAL
5,352
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.

1 week ago

SMYAL
❄️☃️Happy first snow, DC!🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
New year, new opportunities to make a difference! 🌟Celebrate the start of 2025 with us at SMYAL for the New Year. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and an evening of connection with community—all while supporting programs that uplift queer youth. 🏳️‍🌈✨📅 Thursday, January 30🕕 6:00–8:00 PM📍 Shakers, 2014 9th St NW, Washington, DCLet’s toast to another year of progress and impact. Grab your tickets now at bit.ly/4grQpMV 🥳 ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
Celebrating SMYAL’s 40th anniversary in 2024 has been a profound reminder of the resilience, strength, and joy of our community. For 40 years, SMYAL has built something remarkable together to support LGBTQ+ youth.As we enter 2025, we carry this work forward with unshakable commitment. Thank you for 40 years of SMYALstone moments, big and small. Here’s to the next 40, and beyond! ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

2 weeks ago

SMYAL
We are back with our final SMYALstone Moment for #40YearsofSMYAL!Throughout 2024, we've been celebrating our 40th anniversary in service to LGBTQ+ youth, collecting stories of impact, queer joy, and community support.This historic anniversary year is a testament to the power of community and all those who believe in SMYAL's mission of actively building a world where queer and trans youth thrive.SMYAL’s work is proof that progress is possible, even when the odds seem stacked against us.Together we will continue to grow our impact and be the light for so many in our community.Here’s to the next 40 years—and beyond. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

3 weeks ago

SMYAL
Now more than ever, LGBTQ+ youth need an empowering, supportive, and uplifting community.Be a part of the SMYAL community and make a year-end donation to show LGBTQ+ youth they are not alone. Make your gift by December 31st to keep providing programs that foster community support for queer and trans youth. Make a donation at SMYAL.org/EmpowerYouth or visit the link in our bio. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

3 weeks ago

SMYAL
We are back with another SMYALstone Moment for #40yearsofsmyal!The year is 2022 and SMYAL introduces our Bilingual Street Outreach Program to better support Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness.Widening gaps in affirming and culturally competent services available in DC inspired SMYAL to launch our Bilingual Street Outreach Program. This program meets youth where they are, connecting with them in the language they speak, and provides them with resources needed to thrive including housing, healthcare, and legal support. Our Bilingual Street Outreach team is small but mighty, providing outreach services to nearly 300 Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ youth in just 2 years! ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook
English