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

rainbow_dots

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

Giving Back

rainbow_dots

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

Housing

rainbow_dots

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

Cover for SMYAL
5,233
SMYAL

SMYAL

SMYAL supports and empowers LGBTQ youth ages 6-24.

23 hours ago

SMYAL
The fourth annual #CantCancelPride in partnership with @iheartradio & @proctergamble is back! 🌟Join us on June 15th in celebrating visibility and inclusivity for all 🏳️‍🌈 with featured performances from Adam Lambert, Big Freedia & Ciara, Billy Porter, Hayley Kiyoko, Kelsea Ballerini, Kesha and host JoJo Siwa! 🎉The one-hour benefit special will stream on June 15 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on iHeartRadio’s Facebook and YouTube, @RevryTV, The Roku Channel, and The Advocate Channel! #cantcancelpride #LGBTQcenters #Pride2023 ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

1 day ago

SMYAL
Feeling sporty this pride season? Join @DCFrontRunners on their 5K Pride Run on Friday June 9th! Nearly 1,000 runners/walkers completed the 2022 Pride Run 5K, and they want to beat that number this year. Register to run at bit.ly/5KPrideWhether you run, walk or just cheer others on, please consider fundraising for Front Runners' charity partners! You can make a donation on their site or organize a group of runners and walkers as a fundraising charity squad!This year's race proceeds benefit local LGBTQ+ and youth serving organizations, including SMYAL, the Team DC Student-Athlete Scholarship, Wanda Alston Foundation, Teens Run DC, Blade Foundation, Ainsley's Angels of America (National Capital Region), and Pride365. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

4 days ago

SMYAL
⚽ Calling all soccer fans!Washington Spirit PRIDE NIGHT🌈 IS BACK📅 Saturday, June 3rd⏰ 8:00 PM🆚 Racing Louisville FC 🎟️ Purchase tickets at bit.ly/3MyZuGA and $5 from sales will support LGBTQ+ and SMYAL 🏟️ Gates open at 6:30 PM ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

5 days ago

SMYAL
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end, we want to leave you with one of the most important statistics from the Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Mental Health:Having an accepting community can be a crucial factor in combatting mental health issues for LGBTQ+ youth. When young people are surrounded by individuals who validate and support their identities, it can lead to improved self-esteem, increased resilience, and better mental health outcomes. Creating an inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ youth can go a long way in reducing the impact of discrimination, bullying, and stigma. If you want to support work towards building a community where all young people feel safe and valued for who they are, consider donating to our Clinical Services department at **[bit.ly/3Nv8gYh](bit.ly/3Nv8gYh)**! ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

1 week ago

SMYAL
Rise Up! 2023 is coming July 17-22!Join us for four days of workshops, community building, and connection! Meet other queer and trans youth organizers around the country and build your skills for change making in your local community.Rise Up is open to all LGBTQ+ and allied youth ages 13-24. A limited number of conference swag kits are available, so pre-register today at smyal.org/rise! Click the link in our bio for more info. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook

1 week ago

SMYAL
Congratulations, Greater Washington Community Foundation on your 50th Anniversary! We cannot thank you enough for your continued partnership in empowering and improving the lives of LGTBQ+ youth. We wish you many more years of powerful philanthropy for the community in Washington, DC and we look forward to our continued collaboration with you. ... See MoreSee Less
View on Facebook