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
October 11, 2020
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12 pm EST
23rd Annual Virtual Fall Brunch
The Fall Brunch Committee, SMYAL Executive Director Sultan Shakir, and members of the Board invite you to join us for this year’s Fall Brunch fundraiser.This year’s annual Fall Brunch will be our first virtual brunch, but will still provide you with a chance to hear from some of our community’s most inspiring leaders–the youth we work with every day. We have a number of unique features and special guests planned for this year’s event that you won’t want to miss.When we invest in young LGBTQ people, we are sending them a message that their experiences matter and that we will be there to support them every step of the way.
Don't forget to bid in our online auction!
In the News
We're still thinking about Joshua Johnson - NBC News/MSNBC's message to queer and trans youth at this year's #SMYALBrunch.
"Your humanity is more than enough. Let that guide you, and you can't lose."
Watch the full clip of Joshua Johnson here: youtu.be/wHjonTZM6fU
Joshua Johnson at the 2020 SMYAL Fall Brunch
youtu.be
"Your humanity is more than enough. Let that guide you, and you can't lose."- MSNBC Anchor, Joshua Johnson Learn more about the 2020 SMYAL Fall Brunch at SMY...Congratulations to all the recipients of the Washington Blade's Best of Gay DC 2020 Awards!
SMYAL being named Best of Gay DC's 'Best Non-Profit' and Executive Director, Sultan Shakir, receiving 'Most Committed Activist' is validation that the work we do to empower LGBTQ youth truly has an impact, while also serving as motivation to continue serving queer and trans youth across the DMV area.
Thank you to our entire community for your support, we couldn't do this work without you.
See the full list of 2020 winners here: 2020 Best of Gay DC Award Winners
Reminder for #spiritday of Action: LGBTQ youth are worthy of
- Affirmation
- Support
- Priority
Agree? Sign up to be a SMYAL Ally today at SMYAL.org/Ally
📝 Here’s a to-do list to start supporting LGBTQ+ young people today:
1️⃣ Do research on sexual orientation and gender
2️⃣ Raise awareness
3️⃣ Become an Ally in support of LGBTQ youth at SMYAL.org/ally
4️⃣ Amplify the voices and experiences of LGBTQ youth
#SpiritDay #SMYALSpiritDay
💜Today is #spiritday!💜
LGBTQ youth disproportionately face bullying and harassment because of their identities. We know that by showing solidarity and working to create safe spaces for LGBTQ youth, we can help build a more affirming world for queer and trans youth.
Stand with queer and trans youth and join SMYAL staff in wearing purple to show your spirit by tagging #smyalspiritday in your best purple selfie!
