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
May 11, 2019
//
12:00 PM
Cornhole for a Cause
Welcome to the 4th Cornhole For A Cause benefiting SMYAL! Last tournament we raised over $15,000 for SMYAL, bringing our 2018 total to over $28,000!!! We are happy to announce that this tournament, we will be partnering with Rogue Sports to bring this fundraiser to life.
Outside Stead Park
1660 Church St Northwest Washington, DC 20036
In the News
Today is National Give OUT Day, the only national day devoted to supporting nonprofit groups that advocate for, meet the needs of, and celebrate the lives of LGBTQ people. Join us in supporting LGBTQ youth in the DC area. Visit tinyurl.com/SMYALdonate to show your support today. #GiveOUTday
In June 1997, SMYAL purchased two adjacent rowhouses on Capitol Hill which became the first permanent center for LGBTQ youth in the DC metro region. Today, the buildings house all of our administrative offices in addition to our main program space, meeting rooms, a computer lab, a games room, a confidential HIV testing space, the backyard patio, and our perennially popular kitchen.
Many thanks go out to everyone who has helped to create and shape our safe space! What is your favorite memory of the SMYAL house?
Over the years, SMYAL has seen significant transformations. Having started as a once-weekly support group and gradually developing into a fully functional youth center and housing program, SMYAL’s visual identity has evolved along with it.
These changes reflect a greater shift in SMYAL’s trajectory, staying close to its roots as a safe space of belonging and inclusion, and now playing a much larger role in peer-led leadership, school and community advocacy, sexual health, and programming for youth experiencing homelessness.
Do you recognize any of the SMYAL logo changes below?
#Happy35thSMYAL
This year marks SMYAL’s 35th anniversary! In 1984, SMYAL was created when local activists called for change after a group of young men were incarcerated in St. Elizabeth’s Psychiatric Hospital for failing to measure up to the cultural expectations of masculinity. Since then, SMYAL has evolved recognizing that no matter the year or time in history, LGBTQ youth will continue to need a safe and affirming environment to explore how their identities intersect their role as leaders and advocates in the community.
Our posts throughout the year will explore the history of SMYAL and its impact on the LGBTQ community in DC. We hope you’ll join us for a ride down memory lane!
This year marks SMYAL’s 35th anniversary! In 1984, SMYAL was created when local activists called for change after a group of young men were incarcerated in St. Elizabeth’s Psychiatric Hospital for failing to measure up to the cultural expectations of masculinity. Since then, SMYAL has evolved recognizing that no matter the year or time in history, LGBTQ youth will continue to need a safe and affirming environment to explore how their identities intersect their role as leaders and advocates in the community.
Our posts throughout the year will explore the history of SMYAL and its impact on the LGBTQ community in DC. We hope you’ll join us for a ride down memory lane!
