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

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.

3 days ago

SMYAL
🔑 Safe housing saves lives.As a SMYAL Champion, you help provide stable, affirming housing for LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Your monthly gift ensures young people have a safe place to call home. 🏠💜Join us today: SMYAL.org/Champions ... See MoreSee Less
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4 days ago

SMYAL
You're invited to join us for the LGBTQ+ and Allies Afterparty, held in conjunction with the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) annual conference!One of our largest beneficiary events of the year, a portion of funds received benefits SMYAL!This year's theme is 'Defyning Privacy', so come dressed in your best Wicked outfit! We can't wait to see you there! ... See MoreSee Less
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4 days ago

SMYAL
"From the Lavender Scare to Stonewall to ACT UP, from the fight for marriage equality to the ongoing battle for trans rights, queer warriors have long known what it means to survive government neglect, societal backlash, and moral panic. Their testimonies warn us: This moment is severe. This moment is familiar. And this moment requires us to act...The question before D.C.’s leaders is clear: Will you choose to look the other way or will you join us in taking action?"Executive Director of SMYAL Erin Whelan and CEO & Founder of HME Consulting, Heidi Ellis, teamed up and wrote an op-ed for the Washington Blade on Monday. They called on the Mayor's office and local DC leadership to stand up for the LGBTQ+ community socially and financially and also highlighted the importance of supporting DC's queer and trans community.Learn how you can get involved and show your support for the movement by clicking the link in our bio and reading the article! ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
DC, it’s time to show up. The DC LGBTQ+ Budget Coalition—20+ LGBTQ-led orgs strong—is calling on @MayorBowser, the DC Council & city leaders to back LGBTQ+ lives in the budget. Inaction = complicity. DC must be maintain and protect the toughly fought rights of queer people in DC, a city with the highest population of queer people per capita. Our rights. Our safety. Our future. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ 📢 Sign on to demand action and accountability in the DC budget 👉 actionnetwork.org/letters/fully-fund-dcs-lgbtq-communities/#DCLGBTQBudgetCoalition #DCBudget #ProtectTransLives ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
Young people deserve safe, stable, and affirming housing.With over 50 beds, SMYAL is the largest LGBTQ+ youth housing provider in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.SMYAL provides LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness with safe and stable housing, case management, and resource navigation.If you are in need of affirming housing services, please visit SMYAL.org/Housing to learn how to get connected. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

SMYAL
Today is National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD)!NYHAAD is dedicated to educating the public and policymakers on the impact of HIV and AIDS on young people and urge them to take action to help promote prevention and treatment.It's important for us to continue having these conversations about HIV/AIDS to break the stigma and advocate at a time when attacks on healthcare and research funding mean real-life consequences.To learn more about NYHAAD, visit advocatesforyouth.org/nyhaad! Take action today!P.S. Check out our stories today as we share resources on HIV/AIDS. ... See MoreSee Less
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