We advocate for LGBTQ youth so they can seize each day and prepare for the future.
Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy.
Youth Services
Need inspiration for your next GSA campaign? On the hunt for scholarships? We’ve got your back.
Learn MoreGiving Back
From volunteering to donations, the opportunities to support LGBTQ youth are endless.
Get Involved With SMYALHousing
LGBTQ youth deserve a place to live, learn, and grow. That’s why our transitional housing program includes mental health services, networking, mentorship, and more.
Learn MoreEmpower LGBTQ Youth to Thrive
With 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identifying as LGBTQ, our mission has never been more clear. From transitional housing to leadership development, SMYAL serves at-risk youth as they overcome the challenges associated with their identity. 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 Events
September 12, 2019
//
6-8 pm
SMYAL in Montgomery County
Join Councilmember Evan Glass and Former State Sen. Rich Madaleno to learn more about how SMYAL is working to create safe spaces for LGBTQ youth in their schools and communities in Maryland.SMYAL works closely with schools in Montgomery County, providing cultural competency training for administrators and consulting with student activists within their Gender and Sexualities Alliances. Through SMYAL’s Peer Health Fellowships, youth ages 13-24 from across the DMV, including many in Montgomery County, work with SMYAL’s Health and Wellness Coordinator to break down barriers to accessing health information in schools and peer groups. We also welcome multiple families from Montgomery County to our monthly Little SMYALs meetings for LGBTQ youth ages 6-12.As SMYAL builds our presence and resources for LGBTQ youth in Montgomery County, we hope you’ll join us to hear more about our existing programs, and engage in dialogue about how we can better serve LGBTQ youth in the area.
Silver Spring
8710 2nd Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20910
In the News
On Thursday, SMYAL was joined by Councilmember Trayon White, DHS Director Laura Zeilinger, and community members to open SMYAL's expanded Youth Housing Program!
We are so grateful for the support we've received from our community. This is a major step forward, but there is still more work to be done.
Together, we can end LGBTQ youth homelessness.
"We have to put more housing like this in our community, not less"- Councilmember Trayon White
Thank you to David Claypool of Kalorama Photography for capturing this wonderful night shared with our community as we work to end LGBTQ youth homelessness!
We are so honored to have been voted Best Non-Profit!
Thank you to everyone who cast a vote for SMYAL! Our work to empower #LGBTQ youth is only possible because of the support from our community.
www.washingtonblade.com/2019/09/19/best-of-gay-dc-2019/
Washington Blade readers vote on favorites in the community
SMYAL's 2019 SMYAL Fall Brunch is just around the corner!
Join us on October 20th to celebrate 35 years of supporting and mentoring LGBTQ youth! Enjoy a silent auction as well as special presentations from community advocates and youth leaders.
The Annual Fall Brunch provides critical funding that allows SMYAL to grow our programming and deepen our impact in the DMV area.
Learn more and purchase tickets at: smyal.org/brunch/
Join us TONIGHT from 4-6 pm for the launch of the Montgomery County Re-Engagement Initiative!
Enjoy FREE food and performances by Deja Diamond and Calvin Jackson!
Transportation will be provided to those who need it.
RSVP Here: bit.ly/SMYALOpenHouse
