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
March 10, 2021
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7 pm EST
SMYAL x Woodhull: Allyship
This workshop will teach people the beginning steps for being an ally to Queer and Trans communities. We will go over the successes and challenges people make when it comes to being an ally. There will be people from the community who will talk about how people can be more effective allies. And then we will wrap up with a Q&A.
Zoom
sexualfreedomsummit.org/virtual
In the News
SMYAL is proud to be a community partner for the upcoming Out/Spoken storytelling night! Get your tickets today and use the code "OutSpoken2021" for a discount until May 1st! bit.ly/OutSpoken2021SMYAL![]()
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On May 14, 2021, at 8pm ET, Story District will present the annual LGBTQIA+ focused storytelling event, Out/Spoken. For the eleventh annual edition of Out/Spoken, Story District has partnered with Team Rayceen Productions and will stream live from Union Stage. This year's show will celebrate the various LGBTQIA+ Pride celebrations which take place in the Nation's Capital, including Capital Pride, DC Black Pride, Capital Trans Pride, DC Latinx Pride, Youth Day, and Silver Pride.
🗣CALL FOR PROPOSALS![]()
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The 9th annual Leading with Pride conference is coming up! Leading with Pride is a full-day conference for LGBTQ youth and allies to connect with other youth in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.![]()
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Host a workshop at Leading with Pride! We need workshops for youth, parents/caregivers, and for educators. We welcome your ideas and creativity on topics, and encourage you to incorporate this year’s theme-- Existence is Resistance! Please submit proposals by April 26th at dcleadingwithpride.com/registration
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 7!![]()
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Do you know an LGBTQ young person starting college within the next year who has been a strong leader in your community? Someone who has made a difference in your community and who is a role model among peers? Nominate them for the SMYAL Youth Leadership Award!![]()
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Nominate a leader at bit.ly/YLAnominate![]()
Learn more about the YLA at SMYAL.org/scholarship
Interested in applying for the SMYAL Youth Leadership Awards but not sure where to start? Join us for an upcoming information session where we’ll be answering all your questions!![]()
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We’re hosting two info sessions with past YLA winners: ![]()
• April 20th @ 6 PM![]()
• April 30th @ 4 PM![]()
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Learn more about YLA, join an info session, or apply using the link in our bio or by visiting SMYAL.org/scholarship
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 7!![]()
![]()
Do you know an LGBTQ young person starting college within the next year who has been a strong leader in your community? Someone who has made a difference in your community and who is a role model among peers? Nominate them for the SMYAL Youth Leadership Award!![]()
![]()
Nominate a leader at bit.ly/YLAnominate![]()
Learn more about the YLA at SMYAL.org/scholarship
