We advocate for LGBTQ youth so they can seize each day and prepare for the future.

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.
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

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Need inspiration for your next GSA campaign? On the hunt for scholarships? We’ve got your back.

Giving Back

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From volunteering to donations, the opportunities to support LGBTQ youth are endless.

Housing

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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

Empower 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.

SMYAL Social Media

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SMYAL

SMYAL

SMYAL supports and empowers LGBTQ youth ages 6-24.

15 hours ago

SMYAL
The Pride Cake is back at Tatte Bakery to celebrate Pride for the entire month of June! A portion of the proceeds will go to SMYAL so please be sure to grab a slice while you can and support queer and trans youth! ... See MoreSee Less
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16 hours ago

SMYAL
The NOH8 Campaign returns to Washington D.C. with the help of SMYAL on Tuesday, June 20th. Stop by As You Are anytime between 6pm-8pm to pose for an official NOH8 photo by photographer Adam Bouska. No reservations or tickets needed!Photos are first-come, first-served - and we move fast! Please arrive camera-ready with a plain white shirt to match the signature style of the NOH8 photos. ... See MoreSee Less
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3 days ago

SMYAL
It's time! Breaking Ground 2023 auditions are here!Now casting LGBTQIA+ young people of color in the DC Metro area!Do you enjoy acting, singing, poetry, dance, or any other form of art?Want to get PAID to tell YOUR STORY?Join the White House award-winning program Breaking Ground. Breaking Ground is a unique theatre program that showcases your real-life story as an LGBTQIA+ person of color.We have had sold-out performances at Arena Stage, Atlas Performing Arts Center, The SW DC Wharf, and Anacostia Arts Center.Auditions will be held on June 12th, please register for an audition spot at forms.gle/T9s7nMBbYAeRS8Vd7. No prior theatre or art experience is required. ... See MoreSee Less
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3 days ago

SMYAL
Join SMYAL and @EastCityBookshop on June 29th to celebrate and honor pride month! Help us welcome this panel of amazing authors to discuss how they approach writing queer characters and themes across different genres and age ranges.This hybrid event will have both an in-person component with limited seating as well as a virtual broadcast via Zoom Webinar. Both in-person and virtual attendees will be able to pose questions to the authors during audience Q&A.Get your tickets here: bit.ly/44LVdIg*Accessibility* the store's entrance and the larger downstairs space, including the event space, are not accessible by either an elevator or ramp. Please email [email protected] with any questions you have about accessibility and accommodations. ... See MoreSee Less
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4 days ago

SMYAL
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