Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Our Community

According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) LGBTQ+ youth and people face greater risks related to safety, mental health, housing instability, and substance use than their peers. For many, these challenges can make life feel overwhelming and isolating.

At Fairfax CASA, we witness firsthand the difference a strong support system can make in a young person’s life. We advocate for children and youth during some of their most difficult moments by showing up, listening, and connecting them to resources that support their healing and well-being. 

Every child and youth deserves that kind of dedicated support–including LGBTQ+ youth. 

You don’t have to be a CASA volunteer to make a difference. By supporting at-risk youth, especially LGBTQ+ youth in your community, you can help create a more safe, welcoming environment.

Here are three ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth in our community:

Listen

Sometimes, the smallest gestures can have the greatest impact. At the heart of our advocacy is helping children and youth feel heard–and you can do that, too.

Listen with an open mind and kind heart. You don’t need to have all the answers or know exactly what to say. Simply being present and listening can help youth feel seen and supported.

When we take the time to listen, we remind youth that they matter and they don’t have to face challenges alone.

Be a Safe Space

Through consistent advocacy, we help protect children’s well-being and support them as they navigate the child welfare system. We empower youth by standing beside them and being present when it matters most. At the end of the day, every child deserves someone they can count on.

For LGBTQ+ youth, having a trusted, supportive adult can be especially important. Many struggle to find acceptance within their family and communities. In fact, a recent survey from The Trevor Project found that many LGBTQ+ youth go online to connect with others because they have difficulty feeling supported in their daily lives. By creating safe, affirming spaces, we help them feel accepted and create more hopeful outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth.

Stay Informed and Connected 

At Fairfax CASA, our volunteers complete 12 continuing education (CE) credits each year to strengthen their advocacy. Ongoing learning helps ensure our advocates stay informed about child welfare issues, practices, and changes that affect the children and families we serve.

As you look for ways to support LGBTQ+ youth in your community, taking time to understand their experiences and the challenges they may face is an important first step. Staying informed helps us better support our youth and creates a more inclusive, safe community for everyone.

Support Starts With You

Showing up for our youth means showing up for our community. Everyone deserves to feel like they belong. The smallest acts of kindness and compassion can make a lasting difference–and you can start today.

To learn more about supporting LGBQT+ youth and access educational resources, visit thetrevorproject.org.